Spevka. Singing Lesson (Rehearsal in the church lodge) Leonid Solomatkin (1837-1883)

The scene unfolds within a dimly lit chamber, likely a space associated with a religious structure given its architectural details and apparent purpose. Here we see a group gathered around a table, engaged in what appears to be a vocal rehearsal. The composition is dominated by the figures themselves, arranged in a semi-circular fashion around the central instructor.
The instructor, an older man with a pronounced beard and dressed in a dark coat, holds a sheet of music close to his face, seemingly demonstrating or correcting the singers posture and technique. His expression conveys a mixture of seriousness and perhaps slight exasperation, suggesting the challenges inherent in teaching a group of young individuals.
The younger participants are positioned closer to the instructor, their faces illuminated by the light filtering through a window on the right side of the room. Their expressions range from intense concentration to awkwardness or mild discomfort, indicative of the vulnerability associated with public performance and instruction. One boy, standing slightly apart from the others, appears particularly focused, his gaze fixed intently on the music.
The setting itself contributes significantly to the painting’s atmosphere. The rough-hewn walls, exposed brickwork, and simple furnishings evoke a sense of rustic authenticity and perhaps even austerity. A birdcage suspended from the ceiling adds an unexpected element, introducing a note of domesticity within this otherwise formal context. Clothes draped over a chair in the foreground suggest a lived-in space, further grounding the scene in reality.
The color palette is muted, with earthy tones dominating the composition. The limited use of brighter colors draws attention to the faces of the singers and the instructor, emphasizing their emotional states and the importance of their task. The overall effect is one of quiet intensity, capturing a moment of dedication and striving within a community setting.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of tradition, education, and the transmission of cultural heritage. It suggests that even in seemingly humble surroundings, artistic endeavors can flourish, nurtured by dedicated instruction and collective effort. The presence of the birdcage might symbolize freedom or aspiration, contrasting with the structured environment of the rehearsal itself.