The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Netherlands, H.E. Vladimir Tarabrin, hosted a concert to commemorate the 185th anniversary of the renowned Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The event featured an outstanding performance by opera singer Elena Bazhenova, a soloist with an illustrious career in the Pyatnitsky State Choir, the State Ensemble Russian Song, the Russian Spiritual Theater Glas, and the Central Navy Band of Russia. She has also performed as a soloist with the Presidential Orchestra of Russia. Accompanying her on the piano was the talented pianist Marion Pauw-Holleman.
The program showcased a selection of eight short songs by Tchaikovsky. The concert was attended by a distinguished gathering of diplomats, members of Dutch society, and Russian nationals from the diaspora. Among the diplomatic guests were H.E. Mr. Vusimuzi Madonsela, Ambassador of South Africa; H.E. Mr. Andrei Yeudachenka, Ambassador of Belarus; H.E. Mr. Jian Tan, Ambassador of China; and H.E. Mr. Hector Constant Rosales, Ambassador of Venezuela for multilateral organizations.
“Today is an absolutely friendly, non-political concert. Spring is coming, and we decided to mark the season’s beginning with classical music. Similar concerts are being held in several countries, and we hope this will become a tradition. I am pleased to welcome ambassadors from friendly nations, diplomats, representatives of Dutch society, and our compatriots—Russian citizens who live and work in The Hague. We are honored to present a distinguished singer performing worldwide, along with an exceptional pianist,” stated Ambassador Tarabrin.
Since presenting his credentials to King Willem-Alexander on 31 January 2024, Ambassador Tarabrin has organized several remarkable concerts at the Russian Embassy, promoting cultural exchange through music. Following the concert, guests enjoyed a dinner featuring Russian gastronomy, providing an opportunity to discuss the evening’s performance.
The event follows a tradition of musical excellence at the Russian Embassy. Last summer, on 29 July, Ambassador Tarabrin introduced laureate young pianist Eva Gevorgyan from the Moscow Tchaikovsky State Conservatory and the Reina Sofía School of Music. She delivered an exquisite program featuring works by Schumann, Chopin, and Ravel, further highlighting the embassy’s commitment to promoting classical music and artistic talent on an international stage.
