The Russian choir performed in line with the "Way of Memory" project. This project is implemented by RIA Novosti with the blessing of Patriarch Alexius II of Moscow and All Russia. The Moscow Patriarchate and the Russian Foreign Ministry are also offering their assistance.
The choir performed in Budapest and Bratislava, before coming to Vienna.
Representatives of the Austrian public at large, foreign diplomats, city residents and visitors gathered at the Votivkirche Catholic cathedral on Wednesday.
"Russia and the entire world are now marking the 60th anniversary of the Great Victory over Nazism. Our concert begins with Sergei Rachmaninoff's 'All-Night Vigil', one of the most perfect spiritual-music pieces that was written by a secular, albeit deeply religious, person," choir-master Father Nikolai said at the start of the concert.
The 40-person acapella St. Nicholas choir performed church and Easter songs and music pieces, as well as famous songs of the Great Patriotic War, such as "Smuglyanka" (Tanned Girl), "Katyusha" and "Zemlyanka" (Dug-Out).
