Dear readers!

February is considered a cold month in Russia: a “February blizzard” is even a common Russian expression. In February 1901, Andrei Bely wrote in one of his poems: “Let the February blizzard rebel – we guard our white dreams”. So, cold weather isn’t anything special for us. In England, however, the snow always wreaks havoc. Right now it’s hard to predict if there will be snow in England in February like last year but January’s weather caused loads of problems for everyone here unaccustomed to freezing temperatures, black ice and heavy snowfalls – including public transport and airport personnel. >>

Irina Schnittke on a genius composer and genius personality - Alfred Schnittke

Pianist Irina Schnittke, the composer Alfred Schnittke’s widow, lives in two cities – Hamburg and Moscow. She is acknowledged as one of the best exponents of his music. Irina performs her husband’s works (some written for her) all over the world, maintaining interest in the music of this genius composer who ranks among the twentieth-century giants of music Rachmaninov, Stravinsky, Prokofiev and Shostakovich. Quite naturally over time, this avant-garde composer has become a classic...

A talented new generation conquers the world

A new generation of talented young artists and musicians with Russian (i.e. Soviet) roots is making the headlines and topping the music charts. They left the Soviet Union at a very young age, are still under 30, and have already achieved considerable success.

The big secret to incredible success

Tatiana and Sergei Nikitin – no longer are these just the names of two well-known personalities, musicians, and singer-songwriters. Their music evokes the most enduring memories of student days and campfire songs, and the lovely children’s songs our children used to listen to. They have come to be a byword for youth and generosity of spirit, and not just through their songs but also their “Nikitin Evening” performances, concerts for children, and charitable work in aid of children’s homes.

Damned DiCaprio: “Shutter Island”

The Russian-language version of the new movie “Shutter Island” starring Leonardo DiCaprio is to be released under the title “Island of the Damned”. And, certainly, only a very unlucky guy will be given the job of visiting an island inhabited by criminal psychos. This smiling, cute-looking, fair-haired actor is no newcomer to dramatic roles.

Heroes of the Silver Age

The Silver Age encompasses Mandelshtam, Gumilev, Blok, Briusov, Tsvetaeva, and Vyacheslav Ivanov. We use a capacious term to define a very small group of people. Copious amounts of literature are currently appearing about these movements and these people’s private lives. If a literary milieu rather than a specific text is under scrutiny, naturally, conduct, interests and personal biography all acquire significance here.

One and only

During his lifetime the great English writer Charles Dickens became a real celebrity, just like a Hollywood star today. Crowds of people would lionize Dickens at banquets and meetings with readers, and fans once even tore his coat to shreds by way of getting keepsakes. Dickens became the first writer of the 19th century to earn his living from his literary works.

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Emerald City

Many centuries ago our ancestors believed that precious stones possessed magic properties and living souls.

Apple of my eye!

It usually takes centuries for legends about any fine liqueur to evolve. Yet in the 20th century Erich Maria Remarque made calvados famous overnight. His renowned novel “Arch of Triumph” is a real hymn of praise to this apple cider eau de vie from Normandy.

To South Asia

Ten things you should see in Thailand to fall in love with this country forever. Which of these will you find most exciting: 30,000 crocodiles on a farm, a floating market, a snack of fried grasshoppers, a literally head-spinning elephant ride, or a submarine trip in search of Nemo?

Nostalgia for the present

Seldom do British critics and journalists famous for their mordant irony and wit all join together in a rousing chorus of praise. The myriad articles and reviews in all the main newspapers and magazines marking the opening of the dozen or so new Medieval and Renaissance art galleries at the Victoria and Albert Museum read more like eulogies.

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