Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2011

Christmas season approacheth, and in Japan that means the St. Petersburg classical music establishment can’t be too far behind. For the last decade or two, the Russian symphony orchestra, opera and ballet have spent the better part of the season creating a festive holiday mood for Japanese concertgoers. First up is the St Petersburg Chamber Ensemble, which will regale audiences with Christmas classics like Bach’s “Ave Maria.” Star power comes in the form of sopranos Marina Tregubovitch and Svetlana Moskalenko, who will be joined by violinist Vladislav Gluz.

Tokyo Opera City, Dec 3, 16, 17, 24 & 25 (listing).