Culture
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Russian culture has produced some of the greatest artists in history, ranging from literature and music to ballet, theatre, and architecture. Much of this art flourished during the 19th century, including major writers such as Pushkin, Tolstoy, Chekov, and Dostoyevsky. Drama, ballet and opera from Russia were also world-renowned, producing the Ballets Ruse, and musical greats such as Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky. During Soviet rule in the 20th century, many artists were heavily censored and moved abroad.
However, the Soviet government maintained a large number of institutions to house Russian culture. Thus, Russia has some of the largest libraries in the world, as well as a large number of impressive museums. Some of the best known are the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg , the Armory Museum in the Moscow Kremlin, and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. A useful website to learn more about museums in Russia can be found at:
www.humnet.ucla.edu/russian/RussRess/Museum.html
The cinema and theatre are also very popular with Russians. The theatre culture was encouraged during the Soviet era, as tickets were made very affordable and easily available. The best known theatres in Moscow are the Bolshoi, the Maly, and the Moscow Art Theater.
Since the break-up of the Soviet Union, there has been a strong interest in recovering and revitalizing the culture of pre-Soviet Russia. Throughout the country churches are being restored, and the ancient culture of specific cities and communities are being established again. The works of Russian artists and writers who previously were banned are now being celebrated. Because of this cultural renewal, it is a good time to enjoy the rich history of Russian folk arts as well.
In Russia , folk songs are common as they used to accompany agricultural work, and are sung at holidays as well. Traditionally these songs are sung in a group with a polyphonic or "many-voiced" style. The beautiful sound of Russian church music is polyphonic and entirely vocal. The most popular folk instruments are a variety of flutes and an instrument called a balalaika. A balalaika is a long-necked lute with a triangular body and three strings. This music accompanies singing and dancing... Russia is also known for its heroic stamping dances. Other common arts are woodcarving, embroidery, and lacquered boxes painted with festive bright scenes from Russian fairytales and songs. One of the most characteristic folk arts of Russia are the nesting dolls. These dolls are made out of wood and brightly hand-painted, nesting one inside of another. These dolls are a popular symbol of "Mother Russia." Russia 's most recognizable architectural feature would probably be the beautiful onion-domed churches, reminiscent of eastern architecture. Click on the link below for a more in depth look at Russian culture: