This program can be considered a comparative essay of two vastly different and unique cultures presented in the manner of song. To add a bit of structure, six categories were devised to accommodate the various genres of this medium:
National Song
In 1917, post-revolutionary Russia adopted a song written by a couple of Frenchmen whose theme was "down with the exploiters of workers!" Later, the USSR held a competition, and Soyuz Narushima - written by a Russian composer and still familiar to many world- wide (due in large part to the continued success of the Russians in the Olympics) - was adopted in 1944. Currently, a new Russian anthem is a work in progress. An aria from Glinka's opera Ivan Susanin has been selected, while the lyrics are still in development. In the United States, there has been talk of adopting a new national anthem. America the Beautiful is very singable by the average voice, and its lyrics exemplify what is great about America.
Folk Song
Space in tonight's music program is limited - an entire evening could be devoted to each country's folk songs alone. Both are so rich and diverse, expressing the very nuances of each culture, ranging from the simple life of country folk to the complex yearnings of those in love.
Music Theater
Technically speaking, music that plays a predominant role in a drama is considered music theater, including opera and Broadway musicals. These excerpts are from works that could hardly be surpassed in serving as vocal ambassadors for each culture.
Recreational Pastimes
Baseball and basketball are uniquely American in origin. And coupled with several other sports, television can become easily addictive to the average sports fan. Meanwhile, in Russia, where long winters are close to unbearable, any chance to get out in the sun ranks right up there with chess and drinking vodka.
Armed Services
Both countries are very proud of their armed services. The willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice is what enables us to live with peace of mind. The selections here reflect the human side of the most disciplined and detached segment of our respective civilizations.
Indigenous Music
A genre that was created entirely by black Americans, jazz or the blues emanated from the free-form songs of hope and suffering sung by 19th century slaves in the South. Its further development was the result of fusion of African rhythm-percussion with Europe's Western theories of harmonics and orchestral instruments. In Russia, the Polovetsian Dances represent a fusion of the European elements with the popular music of the folklore, both peasant and patriotic.