The annual festival Towards Christmas has opened for its eighth edition at the Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve, inviting visitors to a season of music and culture set against the backdrop of a venerable historic estate. This year the festival unfolds with two distinct parts, offering a broad spectrum of performances that cater to classical tastes and adventurous listeners alike. The first segment, titled Classics Only, runs from December 16 through December 30, featuring organ recitals, intimate piano showcases, and chamber music to suit those who seek refined, traditional concert experiences.
The second portion shifts gears toward non-classical forms and arrives during the January long weekend. Audiences can expect a diverse mix—from ethno-jazz and balalaika ensembles to marimba performances and contemporary jazz explorations, all presented in a site that blends historic architecture with modern sound. The program aims to demonstrate how traditional Russian musical heritage can intersect with current creative expressions, offering listeners a fresh perspective on familiar melodies.
Starting January 7, the festival introduces a new series called Apartments in the Palace. This format promises a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where musicians share the stage with the audience, acoustic performances prevail, and stories from the artists enrich the listening experience. The inaugural edition features pianist Daniil Kramer, who will present jazz and related idioms that are less commonly heard within palace settings. He will also engage with the audience, answering questions that arise during the performance and discussion.
In total, Towards Christmas is scheduled to run in Tsaritsyno from December 16, 2023, to January 7, 2024. The events take place in the Opera House and the Bread House atrium, offering concertgoers a blend of grand acoustic spaces and more intimate venues within the same festival framework. The setup is designed to maximize accessibility, with audiences able to explore a curated sequence of performances across these historic interiors, making the festival a centerpiece of year-end cultural activity.
Alongside the music program, Tsaritsyno has recently hosted an exhibition focused on education within the Romanov era. The exhibit sheds light on how education was approached during that historical period, presenting artifacts and contextual narratives that connect cultural, social, and political life with the era’s artistic achievements. It complements the musical programming by providing visitors with a broader panorama of the period’s intellectual climate and its influence on the arts.
Earlier moments in the festival season included performances by notable performers such as Orbakaite and Valeria, who performed selections of French songs associated with a New Year’s film project titled I Love You – Je t’aime. The pairing of contemporary popular artists with classical and traditional repertoire reflects the festival’s broader mission: to bridge generations, genres, and audiences through a shared love of music and cultural storytelling.