The much-anticipated second season of the vocal competition show "Nu-ka, vse vmeste! Horom!" is set to begin airing on April 4, 2025, on the Russian television channel, Rossiya. Over thirty talented collectives will compete for a chance to win the coveted cup and a cash prize of five million rubles, promising a showcase of musical talent and creativity that highlights the richness of choral art.
The inaugural season of "Nu-ka, vse vmeste! Horom!" aired last year, capturing audiences with broader access to choral music, which many now regard as part of the nation's cultural fabric. According to Nikolai Baskov, the show's long-time host, the significance of choral singing is ingrained in the Russian DNA. He expresses, "After the first season, we learned how crucial this aspect of our culture is. Choral singing is in our code; it’s what we all have grown up with, which is simply amazing!"
As before, the format remains consistent, featuring performances by various teams evaluating their vocal abilities before a jury comprised of music experts. Participants will perform in front of a hundred judges, including prominent singers, producers, and conductors, who will weigh in with their opinions and votes. The best three groups will proceed to the next round of competition, contributing to the dynamic nature of the show.
This year will see iconic figures returning, such as Filipp Kirkorov and Nadezhda Babkina, alongside newcomers like singer Tatyana Kurtukova and composer Maxim Dunaevsky. The diverse panel will represent a blend of popular performers and vocal educators, all dedicated to nurturing emerging talents through their advice and mentorship, ensuring that each participant receives valuable insights.
Nikolai Baskov emphasized the show's ambitious goal of celebrating the multifaceted interpretations of choral music. "We have different performances, diverse ensembles featuring people from various backgrounds— from children to the elderly, and from Cossacks to innovative researchers. This season promises to be extraordinary and enjoyable for everyone," he stated enthusiastically.
One significant change this season is the exit of longtime host Sergei Lazarev, who led the show for six seasons. His supporters feel the absence keenly, having celebrated his longstanding dedication to the project. In honor of his work, Baskov acknowledged Lazarev’s contributions, and fans have begun speculating on who will take his place. “There’s only one person who could fill Sergei's shoes; that could be Lev Borisovich,” jested a fan, referencing a previous juror known for his critical comments. While the show's producers remain tight-lipped about his successor until the premiere, viewers are eagerly awaiting the surprise.
Social media has been ablaze with options as fans express their opinions and preferences regarding who should lead the jury. Names mentioned include rising stars such as rapper Gizha and popular singer Alexey Chumakov; each potential candidate brings their own unique flair to the popular format, generating excitement about the upcoming season.
Moreover, the format of the show not only promises substantial rewards but facilitates a remarkable opportunity for younger singers to shine, as many aspiring artists will now get a chance to reach a broader audience. With more than 500 voices featured in the first season, the renewed interest in choral music speaks volumes about how far these shows can reinvigorate cultural appreciation in Russia.
As the excitement builds for the April 4 premiere, many are optimistic that the second season of "Nu-ka, vse vmeste! Horom!" will continue to uphold the standard set by the first season. Moreover, it will foster a new generation of performers capable of contributing to the rich tapestry of choral tradition, while bringing audiences the joy of music that resonates within the heart of Russian culture.
