The Perm Academic Choir “Mlada” performed at the assembly shop of the UEC-Perm Engines (part of Rostec United Engine Corporation, members of Russian Engineering Union (Soyuzmash of Russia)). This was the choir’s first concert within the MLADAchoir social and cultural project “At Noon on a Workday”.
The familiar sounds of the assembly‑line production at UEC‑Perm Engines were replaced by music as the Mlada Academic Choir performed beloved pieces from the “golden repertoire” of Russian song classics. The concert marked the start of the choir’s project, which bears the nostalgic title “At Noon on a Workday”.
“Giving small concerts at industrial enterprises is our common idea. We consider it our duty to provide emotional support to workers during these challenging times,” said choir artist Ilya Kalish.
Ten unforgettable songs from the Soviet era, including the legendary “Rodina,” “Vashe Blagorodie,” “Spyat Kurgany Temnye,” “Stoyat Devchonki,” and “Glyazhu v Ozera Sinie,” were performed in the Perm choir’s original arrangement. The choir’s talented performance, true vocal artistry, and acting skills impressed the engine builders.
“I really like the Mlada Choir, and of course I couldn’t miss such an event. I am very enthusiastic about artists performing at the plant. This kind of tradition existed in the past, and it’s great to see it being revived today,” noted Natalia Kopylova, a design engineer.
Lyrical, calm motifs gave way to dynamic, humorous melodies. The artists did not just sing — they performed on the stage located next to the gas turbine engines. The vocalists, wearing white corporate coats, temporarily became part of the large team of engine builders.
The song “I Love You, Life” by Konstantin Vanshenkin and Eduard Kolmanovsky served as a perfect final note of the Mlada Choir’s performance. A timeless favorite and a true anthem to life, it continues to inspire optimism and provide the energy to achieve new accomplishments.
“The idea of concerts at noon on a workday may be a little nostalgic, but it’s incredibly valuable. The power and energy of Soviet songs are most fitting right here, at an industrial enterprise. We are very grateful to UEC-Perm Engines for their hospitality and hope that this project will open a new chapter in the collaboration between Perm’s industry and culture,” emphasized Olga Vyguzova, art director and Honored Arts Worker of the Russian Federation.
The “At Noon on a Workday” project is dedicated to the Year of Perm Industry. It was the winner of the 28th City Contest of Socially Significant Projects called “The City Is Us,” which was initiated by the Perm City Administration. The project is intended for employees of Perm’s industrial enterprises.
