As the Germans advanced toward Moscow in the summer of 1941, a people's militia began to form in the capital. Those with military exemptions – diplomats, writers, scientists, and musicians – volunteered to join. Among them was the Soviet Union's first State Brass Band, whose nearly 100 members enlisted in the 6th Division. Tragically, most of them perished near Vyazma just months later.
Their heroic story has only recently come to light and is being pieced together through the recollections of the fallen musicians' children and a few surviving documents. The names of all of the band members are not known, as lists of the militia soldiers were destroyed during evacuation.
Founded by the renowned musician, conductor, and composer Vladislav Blazhevich, this orchestra was truly unique. Before his time, such bands had not included flute, clarinet, or oboe players, nor had they performed works by Tchaikovsky, Bach, or Haydn. Only the best musicians were selected for the Soviet Union's first State Brass Band.
However, the war changed everything. The militiamen were tasked with building defenses, digging trenches, and fighting saboteurs. Due to the rapid advance of the enemy, they were ultimately forced into battle.
It was previously believed that the USSR's first State Brass Band was established in 1970, but thanks to the efforts of the musicians' relatives, as well as journalists and historians, the memory of the country's truly first brass orchestra is being restored. Today, the Kremlin Brass Band even plays a waltz in honor of the heroic musicians who fought for their Homeland.
