The program includes the oratorio “Nagasaki” for mezzo-soprano, mixed choir of symphony orchestra and organ (1958), Three Madrigals for soprano and five instruments (1980), Concerto for viola and orchestra (1985).
Performers:
Moscow Symphony Schnittke Orchestra, artistic director and conductor Professor Igor Gromov;
Combined choir of MGIM named after A.G. Schnittke, artistic director Professor Dmitry Onegin;
soloists Olesya Protasova (mezzo-soprano), Olga Bochanova (soprano), Andrey Usov (alto).
The Chamber Choir of the Moscow Conservatory, artistic director Alexander Solovyov, will take part in the concert.
The concert at MMDM is one of the key events of the large anniversary program, which is held throughout the year by MGIM named after A.G. Schnittke. There are concerts, festivals, tours, conferences, and forums.
MGIM named after A.G. Schnittke is one of the oldest music educational institutions in Russia, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2018. Within its walls A.G. Schnittke began his professional career in music in 1949–1953: in those years it was the Moscow Music College named after the October Revolution. In 1996, the school was transformed into a university, which since 1999 has been named after the composer. In 1998, the Institute created the Center for Contemporary Music (Schnittke Center) with the A.G. Museum. Schnittke and the concert and creative laboratory. The center conducts educational, creative, research, publishing, and concert work. In the year of the centenary (2018), the composer’s widow Irina Schnittke donated the composer’s Moscow and Hamburg offices to the Institute, including all the original things that were in them, a personal library, a collection of awards, and A.G.’s piano. Schnittke.
, masterclasses, and open lectures, all designed to honor our legacy and highlight the achievements of our alumni. Each event showcases the breadth of talent cultivated at MGIM, from orchestral performances to collaborations with acclaimed guest artists. These activities not only celebrate our history but also reaffirm our commitment to fostering excellence in music education. By engaging the community and attracting international attention, we’ve further enhanced our reputation as a premier institution for aspiring musicians in Russia.
Interviewer: Good morning and welcome to our show. Today, we have two esteemed guests, Ms. Maria Petrova, the director of the MGIM named after A.G. Schnittke and Professor Igor Gromov, the artistic director and conductor of the Moscow Symphony Schnittke Orchestra. Thank you for joining us today.
Interviewer: first section: an overview of the program
Ms. Petrova, can you tell us more about the program that is going to be presented at the concert? Can you give us insights into the significance of the selected pieces and why they were chosen for this occasion?
Ms. Petrova: Of course. The program includes three compositions by Alfred Schnittke, a renowned Russian composer. These pieces are rarely performed, and we thought it would be fantastic to commemorate the anniversary of his studies at MGIM by showcasing some of his lesser-known works. We believe that this program will give our audience a unique glimpse into the composer’s creative process and artistic development.
Interviewer: second section: the performers
Professor Gromov, how did you select the performers for this concert? What qualities were you looking for in the soloists and ensemble members?
Professor Gromov: We wanted to ensure that the performers could do justice to Schnittke’s complex and intricate score, so we searched for musicians with a deep understanding of his style and technique. The Moscow Symphony Schnittke Orchestra is well-versed in performing his work, and we felt that their expertise would be complemented by the Combined choir of MGIM and the Chamber Choir of the Moscow Conservatory. As for the soloists, Ms. Protasova and Ms. Bochanova have performed extensively in Russia and internationally, and their unique voices will undoubtedly add depth to the performance.
Interviewer: third section: the anniversary celebration
Ms. Petrova, can you describe the various events planned for MGIM’s centennial celebration? How have these events contributed to the Institute’s reputation as a leading music education institution in Russia?
Ms. Petrova: Our anniversary program includes concerts, festivals
