From Russia with love - at Eyemouth

A CHANCE to hear Russian music is on offer in Eyemouth next month.

Established in 1994 LYRA is a group of professional musicians aiming to introduce Russian Orthodox musical heritage as well as traditional Russian folk music to people taking an interest in their history and culture.

They will be appearing in The Eyemouth United Congregational Worship Resource and Art Centre on Friday, June 9, at 7.30pm. The members of the group have varied musical backgrounds: Olga is a mezzo-soprano from Siberia and winner of the 2003 International singer and Sacred music award.

Alexandra is a soloist soprano at the Academy for young singers in Saint-Petersburg; Igor sings baritone and is soloist with the Saint-Petersburg Chamber choir and Andrey is tenor and leader. He won the International competition of Sacred Music in Rome in 1995 as the conductor of a chamber choir 'SingerBridge'.

The choir had the honour of an Audience with Pope John Paul II. Now Andrey works as a choirmaster in a vocal-choir studio for young people in St Petersburg and leads a church choir.

Despite their differences the group say 'they are united by their passion for ensemble singing'.

Tickets are 5 and available from church managers.