“Malitva” by Oleg Molchan. New releases.

In 2025, the legendary composer Oleg Molchan would have celebrated his 60th birthday. To honor this milestone, Irina Vidova and the music publishing company Ray Records are presenting new releases of the iconic “Malitva.”

Irina Vidova’s duets with Vadim Kosenko https://youtu.be/OYiCBecZIlQ, Akim Tishko https://youtu.be/bXc8jf_FyP0, and Andrey Usanov https://youtu.be/El2_zvXswK0 reveal new patriotic and lyrical facets of the composition. At the time, the Maestro had a longstanding and fruitful collaboration with these artists.

In particular, Vadim Kosenko was personally invited by Oleg Molchan, then the musical director of Pesniary, to be a soloist in the ensemble. Now, Irina Vidova and Vadim Kosenko perform “Malitva” at concerts dedicated to the Maestro’s memory.

The debut of Oleg Molchan’s “Malitva,” set to the poetry of Yanka Kupala, took place in the summer of 1994. Even now, more than three decades later, no work has emerged that matches “Malitva” in musical and spiritual profundity. Today, this song is cherished as a national anthem of Belarusians.

The first performer of “Malitva” was Vladimir Mulyavin. Oleg Molchan composed the piece specifically “for Mulyavin,” and it suited the People’s Artist of the USSR so perfectly that, after his passing, many started saying that “Malitva” should become a musical monument — a song that no one else should perform.

However, Oleg Molchan himself did not want his work to become a museum piece. Therefore, he gladly responded to choirmasters’ requests and created an arrangement for a choir. He personally attended rehearsals of various ensembles, meticulously ensuring the resonant and dignified performance of one of his most significant works, controlling literally every note.

Prior to that, “Malitva” had been performed numerous times in Oleg Molchan’s solo concerts, often featuring leading artists of Belarus. The legendary song also frequently graced official state events with the participation of the Head of State.

Nevertheless, some artists performed “Malitva” without the composer’s permission. To protect his work, Oleg Molchan took legal action by appealing to the Supreme Court, which fully upheld his claim. Additionally, several official bans on the piece were issued. “Malitva” was deeply dear to Molchan — it was a labor of love, painstakingly crafted over time. As a result, he was staunchly opposed to any experimentation or alteration of his composition, holding firm principles on this matter. Protecting his intellectual property became a lifelong pursuit, often diverting him from his creative endeavors. Nonetheless, he resolutely defended his artistic vision against any interference.

Molchan composed “Malitva” at the age of 29, working on it for approximately three months. This song is loved by all Belarusians and is widely known beyond national borders. Therefore, Irina Vidova-Molchan, the copyright holder and widow of the composer, approaches the work with the same reverence and deep respect for the Maestro’s artistic vision and his creative intent.

For more information, visit: https://olegmolchan.com/2-24/