Far Eastern Orchestra Marks 90 Years with a Grand Anniversary Concert
The Far Eastern Academic Symphony Orchestra recently celebrated its 90th anniversary with a special concert. Founded in 1936, the ensemble has grown from a small wartime group to a respected institution with a broad touring schedule. The orchestra was established on February 15, 1936. Despite the challenges of World War II, it continued performing with just 16 musicians. By 1945, it gained state recognition, and in 1961, it became part of the Khabarovsk Regional Philharmonic. The title 'Academic' was awarded in 2011, marking its artistic achievements.
Under conductor Viktor Tits, the orchestra secured 6th place in the 1976 RSFSR Symphony Orchestra Competition. Gennady Chashchin, an Honoured Artist of the RSFSR, has served as principal clarinetist since 1973. Over the decades, the ensemble has collaborated with renowned artists like Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Yuri Bashmet, and Denis Matsuev.
The 90th-anniversary concert, titled DVASO 90, was led by Anton Shnitkin at the Khabarovsk Philharmonic. The closing event of the 90th symphonic season will showcase works by Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky, featuring pianist Nikita Mndoyants. Meanwhile, the orchestra’s touring reach now extends to cities across eastern Russia, including Chita, Blagoveshchensk, Vladivostok, and Ulan-Ude. The anniversary season highlights the orchestra’s resilience and growth. From wartime performances to national recognition, it remains a key cultural force in the Far East. The upcoming concert with Mndoyants will mark another milestone in its long history.
