Nikita Mikhalkov: "Modern Musical Map of Russia" carries deep meaning

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At a press conference on April 4 at MIA "Russia Today" dedicated to the launch of the nationwide project "Modern Musical Map of Russia", People's Artist of the RSFSR and film director Nikita Mikhalkov emphasized that such projects bring not only artistic value but also profound meaning. In his opinion, creating a musical map of Russia will help discover and further support regional talents.

"This is an opportunity to hear those who live in their native regions and to help them be heard. They will be able to create centres of creativity where they are, instead of thinking that recognition and fame can only be found in the capital — I believe this is a very proper and healthy story," noted Nikita Mikhalkov.

The director added that his theatre, "Workshop '12' of Nikita Mikhalkov", supported the idea of a large-scale cultural exchange between regions and is launching its own festival — "Atlas of Theatrical Russia". Five days a month, troupes from various parts of the country will perform on the theatre’s stage.

"Modern Musical Map of Russia" will bring together works by composers from all regions of the country, creating a unique sound portrait of Russian culture. As part of the project, a nationwide music festival will be held, featuring new compositions that reflect the cultural diversity of the peoples of Russia.

The selection of participating composers will be carried out by an expert commission in each region of the country. The final stage will be a series of concerts in Moscow in September 2025, held at the Grand Hall of Nikita Mikhalkov’s "Workshop "12'", where the compositions will be performed by leading ensembles, including the L. G. Zykina State Academic Russian Folk Ensemble "Russia" and musicians from the Orpheus television and radio centre.

Recordings of all compositions will be made available on streaming platforms and distributed to regions for inclusion in the repertoires of creative groups and festival programs. The project will conclude with a gala concert on November 4, 2025, at the National Centre RUSSIA, dedicated to National Unity Day.