Iosif Kobzon to celebrate his 65th birth anniversary

Variety singer and politician, deputy chairman of the State Duma committee for culture and tourism Iosif Kobzon will celebrate his 65th birth anniversary on Wednesday.

He began singing at school, continued in the army and later received professional education at the vocal faculty of the Gnesins Musical Pedagogical Institute. His manner of performance, that is a skill to combine belcanto technique with free and easy intonation, interest in the words and poetic lines, was formed in the 1960s. Now, after decades of the peak of his performances, the Russian people love and know Kobzon's voice.

Though the singer's repertoire has always been distinguished for many genres -- from heroic to folk songs and romances, strong and emotional songs devoted to the memory of generations and ties between the past and the present are especially dear to him.

Five years ago, in the year of his 60th birth anniversary, Kobzon, as if saying good-bye to his listeners, made a great tour in Russia and abroad. But up to these days he takes part in concerts causing joy to his numerous admirers.