In a wide-ranging interview, Sergei Shnurov, the leader of the Leningrad group, marked the musician’s 50th anniversary and explained why he chose to stay in Russia. He tied his decision to a deep respect for his audience during a turbulent period for the country, emphasizing that many people have limited options and limited mobility. He voiced a simple, powerful conviction: he would remain with his audience rather than seek distance from them in a moment of national difficulty.
Shnurov also shared his views on the idea of emigrant music as a genre. He was candid about his skepticism, noting that embracing that path would demand total commitment to a particular direction, shaped by nostalgia and a constant reflection on what has passed. He suggested that emigrant music can feel like a retreat from the present, with an emphasis on past glories rather than ongoing innovation. For him, staying grounded in Russia means focusing on current realities and imaginative output that resonates with today’s listeners rather than chasing a retrospective mood.
Regarding his peers who chose to leave, the artist made it clear that he does not condemn them. He acknowledged that competition within the creative scene might appear diminished as a result, but he also warned that Russia’s artistic diversity could suffer if voices go silent or move entirely to foreign terrains. His perspective reflects a broader tension between staying to contribute locally and seeking new horizons abroad. He remains calm about others’ choices while weighing the impact on the culture and industry he has built over decades.
From a business-oriented viewpoint, Shnurov approached the music landscape with a pragmatic mindset. He views show business as a form of enterprise where audience connection matters as much as artistic risk. He expressed that a reduced number of competitors does not necessarily equate to easier creativity, but it does redefine pathways for artists who navigate the market and the needs of fans during uncertain times. His stance underscores a balanced approach: value the relationship with the audience, maintain artistic integrity, and adapt to the evolving economic and cultural climate within the country.
The musician also reflected on the broader role of artists during periods of national strain. He stressed the importance of continuing to provide meaningful work that speaks to people’s real-life experiences. For him, art must respond to the present, offering both solace and critique where appropriate. This attitude highlights a commitment to sustaining relevance and resilience through music, even when external circumstances are challenging. The conversation suggests a conviction that art can contribute to emotional and social life without losing its honesty or purpose.