The Israel Police orchestra is set to travel to Moscow to take part in one of the largest military orchestra festivals in the world next week.
The orchestra will be joined by several military orchestras, including those from the US, Britain, Australia, and Germany. It is the second year in a row in which Israel is represented in the festival.
Cmdr. Yoram Halevi, head of Community and Civil Guard, said, “we attach great importance to improving the image of the state and the police,” adding that the orchestra would help serve that purpose.
The orchestra’s expenses will be funded by the Keren Hayesod – United Israel Appeal organization.
“This cultural activity is only one part of Keren Hayesod’s activities to increase cultural ties between Russia and Israel, and create an interface of cooperation on social issues which don’t always find expression in normal diplomatic ties,” said Director-General of Keren Hayesod Greg Masel.
The Israel Police orchestra was founded in 1921, and has composed and performed many songs in its long history.
It will perform classical pieces and jazz songs before tens of thousands of spectators in Moscow’s Red Square.
Eitan Sobol conducts the orchestra.
The group is expected to hold its last rehearsal, before taking off for Russia on Thursday, on the basketball court of the Mikve Israel Agricultural School, south of Jaffa. Members of the public are invited by the orchestra to attend the rehearsal.