Classical singer Charlotte Church has the unique gift of a singing voice so high it can break glass. Russian vocalist Vladimir Miller can do the exact opposite – harmonizing notes in the lowest vocal range.

Along with three other basso profundo in the prestigious Male Choir of St. Petersburg, Miller can sing one of the lowest notes, the G below the bass clef staff, a rare talent among many vocalists.

“These unique voices have been a product of Russia for years and continue to amaze listeners with their phenomenal capabilities,” said Thomas Taylor Dickey, a doctoral student in orchestral conducting at the University.

Dickey will give a 45 minute public lecture prior to the Male Choir of St. Petersburg’s first performance on American soil tonight at Hodgson Music Hall.

The choir, formed in 1993, consists of 25 professional musicians who showcase 19th century liturgical works by Tchaikovsky and other famous Russian composers.

Vadim Afanasiev, the maestro of the choir, prides himself on honoring Ivan the Great’s Choir of the Sovereign’s Church’s choristers by keeping specific traditions in tact. Traditions such as strict membership requirements and rigorous private study techniques ensure a high caliber group of performers.

“As decreed by Ivan III, only the most gifted, specially chosen choristers were chosen for membership,” Dickey said. “The fact that the music is being performed by Russian singers who are the product of a system of training that is centuries old lends an authenticity to the performance that can only be created by this choir.”

The choir performs both sacred and secular music, representing the diverse musical gamut of Russian culture. From marches to chants and hymns to folk songs, “a genuine Russian spirit can be heard,” Dickey said.

The religious aspect of the performance reminds Dickey of the words of St. Augustine: “To sing is to pray twice.”

Music historically has been an important feature of worship in the Christian faith, but when performing religious compositions, the Male Choir of St. Petersburg strives to do more than just send an offering to God – often it gives audiences inspiration.

“Something about choral music unites people. They always feel there’s something greater than ourselves. It’s a part of nature, and that’s why it brings us closer to God,” said Lauren Connell, a freshman international affairs and classics major.

Whether an audience wishes to learn more about a foreign culture, experience a sacred Christian tradition or seek pleasure in the beautiful voices of choral music, the Male Choir of St. Petersburg can satisfy its craving.

“Whether it is a concert of works heard for the first time or the hundredth time, I always hope that the audience will take away with them an understanding of – and an appreciation for – the music,” Dickey said.