The traditions of Russian music, especially the religious traditions, are realized in the creative work of the composer Georgy Dmitriev. The Testament of Gogol was composed in 1997. The idea of this work was nurtured for many years in the imagination of the composer. Gogol had always been one of his favorite authors. The text for the work is taken from the first chapter of Gogol's Selections from Correspondence with Friends. The form of the work is unique. Its 11 choral parts, or episodes are inserted into one large composition. The 11 parts of the reader interact with the subsequent choral singing in different ways, thus making the whole process more dynamic and symphonic. The premiere of the work took place on March 7, 1999 in the Rachmaninoff Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. The 'Vremya' newspaper wrote: 'The composition is not infected either by the spirit of the avant-garde or with doubts of post-modernism. It has been written strongly, intelligently, professionally and convincingly shows the author's excellent knowledge of choral singing as well as the 20th century's means of expressing itself.'

This superb chorus sings a multiplicity of folk masterpieces: Russian, Gregorian, and Ukrainian. The authentic Russian songs offered generously on this program cover a wide range of genre and character, from love songs and coach tunes to peasant dances. The emotional range is broad as well, from subtle lyrics to boisterous joy. Each region represented reveals in its music an enriched experience of the uniqueness of its own culture. Sumptuous sound from top to bottom, pinpoint accuracy, electrifying virtuosity and great expressiveness. Selections range from old favourites like 'Dark Eyes,' the 'Volga Boatman's Song,' and 'Kalinka,' to much less familiar gems like 'There is Birch in the Field' (Tchaikovsky Uses this theme in his Fourth Symphony.) The true joy in singing is everywhere evident.

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