The picture shows members of the popular rock group Lumen. Young people giving an informal concert during a flat party in Kapelsky Lane. Such so called "kvartirnik" concerts became a successful start for many newly formed groups.
Vitaly Belousov/TASSRussians know how to party. But often, the real fun happens away from the bars and clubs. House parties are a big part of the country’s culture - they are taken very seriously indeed.
In Soviet times, many rock bands were not granted permits for staging public concerts due to censorship, so the only chance to see some musicians was to host a concert behind closed doors in an apartment - these were known as “
People who gathered at such events were effectively going against the state - they championed freedom of expression and liberty. The concerts were usually spiced up with bottles of port wine - a symbol of Soviet rock culture.
Musicians performed their own songs and covers, they also jammed. Poetry
Poetry kvartirniks were also popular.
RIA NovostiContemporary Russians also like to gather for home concerts – they are still popular among local indie bands who mostly perform for their friends and relatives.
A gig is usually held at a musician’s place. Any room can be a stage, depending on the number of guests. If a host
“Guests who attend such events are usually intelligent, creative people: Musicians, dancers, students. I often see foreigners among them, so it’s not a surprise to hear English spoken at the gigs. Many of them come from abroad to attend the party and share their impressions
Some organizers ask guests to donate a little money for the event, and
A
“Apartments for
If there are too many guests people can hang out in the “
Are there any rules?
Russians like to gather for home concerts.
Sergei Savostyanov/TASSOf course, rules depend on the apartment’s owner, but there are some basics:
1. The host is always right.
2. Guests should be polite to each other and the neighbors.
3. Guest should keep the apartment in order and help clean up after the party.
4. If a guest needs to stay for the night, he needs ask the owner first.
5. Guest should not make noise after 11 p.m.
6. Guest should bring food, drinks, and disposable tableware with them and share it with others.
7. Guest should not get too drunk.
Have you ever been to a Russian
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