SHILLONG: The Shillong Chamber Choir (SCC) is representing India at a cultural festival titled ‘Namaste Russia’, organised by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, along with ICCR and the Indian Embassy in Russia,
The festival is to celebrate 70 years (1947-2017) of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Russia.
The Choir is visiting three Russian cities — Moscow, Yekaterinburg and St Petersburg — between May 18 and 23. The concert on Friday was the opening of the festival.
The first event in Moscow was held at the prestigious ‘Moscow International House of Music’ also known as the Dom Muzyki.
The repertoire of SCC performed Opera, Khasi songs, Bollywood medleys and jazz.
They had also prepared four Russian songs, which included Kalinka, Usha Uthup’s Darling and MJ’s Beat It — all in one energetic medley.
The show was stipulated for 60 minutes but due to the five encores and two standing ovations, the choir went on to perform for 90minutes. The concluding piece was Vande Mataram.
William Basaiawmoit, SCC soloist, said the effort they put in for the Russian songs made a big impact and led to the audience making them feel generously welcomed throughout the show.
“It was a treat for any artiste to perform to such a well-informed and enthusiastic crowd,” he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit on May 31.
