“Rock at the Fortress” – the concert that brought together music enthusiasts from both banks of the Nistru River

On Saturday, 10 June, on the occasion of celebrating the completion of the restoration and conservation works at Tighina/Bender Fortress, the “Rock at the Fortress” concert was organized. The Moldovan National Youth Orchestra (MNYO) returned to the fortress courtyard with an exceptional concert. The event took place with the financial support of the European Union through the Confidence Building Measures Programme implemented by UNDP.

60 musicians and instrumentalists from both banks of the Nistru River reinterpreted legendary rock songs. From Nirvana, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and Queen to Elton John, Moby, and Okean Elzy, these are just a few examples of songs that created a true sensation.

“It’s a wonderful concert in a very beautiful venue, and I’m impressed by how well the fortress looks. There’s a large crowd, which is splendid and I think it’s a great opportunity for everyone to gather here and listen to good, dynamic music,” stated Alexandru.

“I’m from Tiraspol, and it’s my first time attending a concert here at the fortress, specifically the MNYO concerts. The atmosphere here is incredible. It’s interesting to see how history intertwines with the modern at a cultural event: a fortress from the 15th century and rock music from our days,” mentioned Olesea.

“I have never taken part is such a grandiose event, everything is so captivating. Thank you for coming to our city,” said Elena.

The MNYO concerts organized at Tighina/Bender Fortress have become a beautiful tradition, and as evidence, tickets were sold well in advance of the concert. The approximately 2000 people present at the concert had the opportunity to listen to the performances of special guests – Pasha Parfeni, Ana Cernicova, and Radu Dolgan.

“The magnificent Tighina/Bender Fortress is a place where we always go with great pleasure and where we meet an extraordinary audience. It is uplifting to see how people from both banks come together in a spiritual union every year. The repertoire is largely inspired by the first Symphonic Rock event, which took place 10 years ago,” mentioned Adriano Marian, the conductor of the Moldovan National Youth Orchestra.

The “Rock at the Fortress” concert on 10 June is the 5th event organized by MNYO at Tighina/Bender Fortress, with the support of the EU and UNDP. Organizing cultural events at Tighina/Bender Fortress ensures the financial sustainability of this important historical monument. The Confidence Building Measures Programme, financed by the European Union and implemented by UNDP, contributes to the strengthening of trust between the inhabitants of both banks of the Nistru River, by involving them in joint development projects.