🫶 On April 12, 1961 the news about Gagarin’s spaceflight brought thousands of enthusiastic muscovites to the streets of the capital.

🎙 People across the nation & around the world read and listened to the news about the first human in space with bated breath and a feeling of deep proud.

💫 Since then in Russia on April 12 we celebrate the Cosmonautics Day that reminds us about this incredible achievement and pushes the boundaries of science and innovation for the better future!

@ruscultureusa

🌟 Russian Cultural Centre visited Rakhmaninov's grave in New York after his 150th anniversary

Olga Golovashchenko, the head of Russian Cultural Centre in USA, has visited the grave of Sergey Rakhmaninov in New York. Several members of the Russian Consulate General in New York also joined the solemn laying of flowers in the Kensico Cemetery.

On April 2 all around the world the 150th anniversary of the great Russian composer was celebrated. Rakhmaninov is often described as 'the most Russian musician'. He was able to combine principles of Moscow and St. Petersburg music schools and created his own unique style, which is well-known throughout the world.

Even after changing the country of residence, Rakhmaninov always remained a truly Russian musician. 'When I left Russia, I've lost the desire to compose. Having lost my Homeland, I lost myself...' — he said after first 10 years in immigration in the United States with not a single work done.

Nevertheless, Rakhmaninov never stopped being a true citizen. He always had a soft spot for his compatriots and helped both acquaitances and strangers from Russia in every way he could. What is more, during World War II he donated all the proceeds from his concerts to the Red Army and the USSR defense foundations.

@ruscultureusa