Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Performing Arts
Moscow has always been known for the richness of its culture, ranging from
the traditional to the progressive. Whether a Tchaikovsky opera or an
Ostrovsky drama, the classical performing arts in Moscow are among the best
(and cheapest) in the world. But New Russia comes with new forms of art and
entertainment. This bohemian side of Moscow - be it a beatnik band or experi-
mental theatre - provides a glimpse of Russia's future.
Music
The classics never go out of style. This is certainly true for music in Moscow, where Mus-
sorgsky, Stravinsky and especially Tchaikovsky still feature in concert halls on an almost
daily basis. The atmosphere in these places is a little stuffy, but the musicianship is first rate
and the compositions are timeless. However, music in Moscow takes many forms, and these
days rock, blues and jazz are ubiquitous in the capital; you can also hear alternative contem-
porary styles like funk, ska, house, hip hop, trip-hop and more.
Classical Music Venues
Tchaikovsky Concert Hall
Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory
Moscow International House of Music
Classical & Opera
The defining period of Russian classical music was from the 1860s to 1900. As Russian com-
posers (and painters and writers) struggled to find a national identity, several influential
schools formed, from which some of Russia's most famous composers and finest music
emerged. The so-called Group of Five, which included Modest Mussorgsky (1839-81) and
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844-1908), believed that a radical departure from Europe was
necessary, and they looked to
byliny
(folk music) for themes. Mussorgsky penned
Pictures at
an Exhibition
and the opera
Boris Godunov;
Rimsky-Korsakov is best known for
Scheherazade.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky (1840-93) also embraced Russian folklore and music, as well as the
disciplines of Western European composers. Tchaikovsky is widely regarded as the father of
