Famed Russian troupe to ring in New Year

Russia's top troupe，Russia's Alexander Red Flag Song and Dance Troupe will take to the stage of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on New Year's Day to bring back memories of the former Soviet Union to a Chinese audience.

The performance features several Russian songs, folk dances and music that are familiar to the Chinese people.

Founded in 1928, the troupe's former name was Soviet Union Red Army Choir. It is Russia's most famed military choir with longest history.

Originally created by the composer of the Russian national anthem 86 years ago, the troupe has grown from 14 members to 300. It is now composed of well known Russian conductors, singers, instrumentalists, dancers, and performers.

Its men's chorus is considered one of the world's best choruses, noted for its high techniques for voice tone changes and deep artistic appeals.

The troupe keeps up its fine tradition by mainly singing military songs and playing military music.

During president Xi Jinping and first lady Peng Liyuan's visit to Russia in April 2013, the first lady paid a special visit to the troupe. The troupe played a special half hour performance during her visit. At the end of the performance, the Russian artists invited Peng to sing the classic Chinese song Red Plum Blossoming with them.

When the troupe performed in 2009, former president Hu Jintao was present. He greeted and met with the performers before the performance.

Some of the retired artists of the troupe have also performed for the late president Mao Zedong.

Their songs and performances have influenced several generations of the people in the world.