Russian cellist Mstislav Rostropovich was one of the foremost musicians of the 20th century. He was conductor and musical director of the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C. for 17 years and will be honored there in October.
On April 27, 2007, the world mourned the passing of a great Russian musician and a world-class cellist. Since Rostopovich's death, there have been many events throughout the world honoring his life's work. The tribute planned for October of this year promises to be very special as family members, friends, colleagues and admirers, Russians and Americans alike, gather in Washington, D.C. to pay homage to the great maestro.
In the words of Olga Rostropovich: "At first, we wanted to make do with a commemorative evening at the Russian Embassy. The idea later developed into something bigger-so many were eager to take part. This shows the high level of interest in Rostropovich in Washington and throughout the United States. He loved this city and the orchestra he headed. By symbolic coincidence, the National Symphony Orchestra of Washington will celebrate its 75th anniversary around the same time."
The event is chaired by the Honorary Patron of celebration Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Washington, D.C. Honorary Chair, Honorable Esther Coopersmith and the Honorable Mr. and Mrs. Yuri Ushakov. The event co-chair is Olga Rostropovich, President, Rostropovich Foundation and Xenia Woyevodsky, President of the International Firebird Arts Foundation.
Schedule of Events
October 12, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
Memorial Service for Mstislav Rostropovich
St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Cathedral, 400l l7th Street, N.W. (17th and Shepherd Streets), Washington, D.C.
October 14, 2008, 7:00 p.m.,
Embassy of the Russian Federation
Gala Evening
An unforgettable evening of dinner and other musical surprises. Honorary Benefit Committee includes: Galina Vishnevskaya, Yuri Bashmet, Michael Kaiser, Ignat Solzhenitzyn, Yuri Termirkanov and others. For tickets and further information, please call 301-365-2737 or 301-365-3763.
October 15, 2008, 7:30 p.m.
Kennedy Center Terrace Theater
The Rostropovich Foundation presents a concert of classical masterpieces performed by Rostropovich Commemorative Scholarship Winners, in their first performance in Washington, D.C., honoring Maestro Rostropovich's passionate devotion and commitment to aspiring young talent. Tickets to be purchased exclusively online at www.kennedy-ter.org/tickets, through Instant-Charge or at the Kennedy Center Box Office. For more information call (202) 476-4600.
October 16, 2008, 7:30 p.m.
Coolidge Auditorium, Library of Congress
An Evening of Remembrances hosted by the Librarian of Congress, Dr. James H. Billington. Opening of a photo exhibit and viewing of 1991 Emmy Award winning documentary, "Soldiers of Music: Rostropovich Returns to Russia." No tickets necessary.
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