Russia to rebuild Red Army choir
Russia says its world famous military choir that lost most of its singers in a recent plane crash will be restored soon.
Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday that he would do what is necessary to restore the Alexandrov Ensemble, also known as the Red Army Choir internationally.
The ensemble suffered a deadly blow on the weekend, when a Syria-bound plane, transporting 64 group members, including the conductor, Valery Khalilov, went down in the Black Sea near the resort city of Sochi.
The choir members were en route to Russia's military base in Syria to entertain troops during the New Year celebrations.
Shoigu said the Russian Defense Ministry would "hold auditions, pick the best people, so that they continue the traditions that the Alexandrov Ensemble is known for."
The minister said he would soon order the allocation of 70 flats to the ensemble’s new members in a bid to entice the best musical talent to join the choir.
Shoigu announced the plans at a defense ministry meeting, where he held a minute of silence in memory of the victims. The Russian official hailed members of the choir for the unparalleled work they had offered over the years, saying they revived the army's orchestral traditions. Shoigu also called conductor Khalilov a "legend" and said that a military music school will be named after him.
The Alexandrov Ensemble was established in 1928. It has about 200 singers, dancers and musicians, many of them civilians who are also known for their work in other ensembles, choirs and musical theaters.
Russia vows retaliation after UK’s expulsion of defense attaché
Putin sworn in for 5th term as Russia’s president, begins 6-year tenure
Germany backs EU proposal to use frozen Russian assets to finance arms for Ukraine
Israel lost Gaza war and refusal to sign truce deal will only hasten its annihilation
Another mass grave uncovered in Gaza, bodies ‘without heads’ found
Russia vows retaliation after UK’s expulsion of defense attaché
Israel keeps bombing Rafah as truce talks resume in Cairo
Washington police clear pro-Palestine encampment, arrest dozens
VIDEO | Gaza truce on hold
Iran president urges global action for Gaza humanitarian aid
VIDEO | What are the contours of Gaza truce deal accepted by Hamas?
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
