The 50th All-Russian festival dedicated to author’s songs, named in honor of Valery Grushin, commenced near Tolyatti beside the Mastryukovskie lakes. This milestone has been reported by the Russian newspaper and celebrated as a moment of enduring musical heritage that draws both longtime fans and curious newcomers to the gathering each year.
According to Boris Keilman, who leads the Grushinsky Festival, organizers anticipate a turnout of around 60,000 attendees. The crowd is expected to swell as people travel from across the region and beyond to take part in this commemorative event, where the music and the communal spirit are the main draw.
Keilman emphasized that while songs are readily accessible online, the festival’s strongest value lies in human connection. He expressed his eagerness to welcome visitors, noting that the telephone lines are buzzing with congratulations, the clearing will be filled with energy, and many people will converge in a shared moment of celebration and storytelling.
In honor of Grushin’s legacy, the festival site recreates a 1970s atmosphere. The main clearing hosts a bonfire, retro photo zones, and paths lined with the names of bards and poets, evoking memories of the era when the singer-songwriter culture flourished. To mark the anniversary, organizers have planned a sailboat race, and a vessel will be constructed in memory of Valery Grushin to symbolize the enduring voyage of his music.
Among the guests announced for the festival are Oleg Mityaev, Nikita Vysotsky, the Grushinsky Trio, Anatoly Kireev, Elena Frolova, Ekaterina Kotenochkina, the Zhavoronki ensemble, and other notable performers who contribute to the event’s diverse program and festive atmosphere.
Earlier reports note that more than 270,000 people attended the Moscow Jazz Festival, underscoring a robust interest in live musical gatherings across the country. The turnout figures reflect a sustained enthusiasm for performances that celebrate artistic roots and contemporary creativity alike.
Additionally, former Kaluga Governor Vladislav Shapsha provided clarification regarding the postponement of the festival titled “Invasion,” offering reasoning tied to logistical and organizational considerations. The update illustrates how festival planning often involves balancing cultural significance with practical scheduling realities, ensuring safety and quality for attendees.