Military bands from around the world get ready to rock Red Square

Spectacular rehearsals of the international military music festival Spasskaya Tower have taken place on Red Square prior to the September event.

The presentation of Moscow’s Military Tattoo took place Tuesday on Red Square. Aleksandr Zhukov, Deputy Chairman of the Russian government told journalists and foreign guests at the opening that they were seeing an early preview of the military music festival, reports news channel Russia 24.

According to Zhukov, over one thousand soldiers and musicians from 12 countries will take part in the event, which is expected to draw over 30 000 spectators. Many more will be able to enjoy the performances online. Over 5 000 tickets will be distributed free among veterans. On the city’s birthday, which is September 5, military musicians will be playing in Moscow parks.

The Spasskaya Tower military music festival was first held in 2009. Then, besides military marches, the festival featured French singer Mirei Matier and unusual performances of the Beatles’ hits.

This year the event is dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany.

Also, during the festival spectators will have a chance to listen to some unique interpretations of contemporary classics, such as militarized version of Queen’s ‘We Will Rock You’ played by a band of bagpipers. Among other spotlights is the performance of the world famous Russian Special Guard of the Presidential Regiment.