One of the great basses at the Bolshoi in the period of the 30's to the 50's Maxim Mikhailov was immensely popular with the public. Deep and powerful, with impressive low notes, Mikhailov's voice was what many associate with the notion of a "Russian bass". He was especially noted for such roles as Pimen in Boris Godunov, Ivan Susanin, or Khan Konchak in Prince Igor and was equally appreciated in popular song and in recitals. Initally in the priesthood, he was largely self taught. His robust and simple interpretations can be heard on record and can also be seen in the movie "The Bolshoi Concert" from 1951, still available on video-tape, in which he can be seen in the role of Konchak.
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Culture and Art 