Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov is a composer, creator and first musical director of the Academic Twice Red Banner, Order of the Red Star Song and Dance Ensemble of the Russian Army. Combining in his ensemble the traditions of Russian everyday, chamber, opera, church and soldier singing, he brought Russian choral art to the international professional stage. The male polyphonic choir with soloists, a mixed orchestra consisting of symphonic and folk instruments, and the ballet ensemble are recognized and remain among the best in the world. During its existence, Alexandrov's ensemble has toured in more than 70 countries. Based on his model, a number of military musical and choreographic ensembles have been created and operate in Russia and abroad. From the new book of the famous author Sophia Benois, the reader will learn about the life of an outstanding musician, about the history of the creation of the ensemble and about the life of the world group from 1928 to the tragic events on the night of December 25, 2016.