Leonid Bortkevich Soviet and Belarusian pop singer and musician Date of Birth: 25.05.1949 Country: Belarus

1. Youth and Early Career
2. Architectural Studies and Debut
3. Breakthrough with "Pesnyary"
4. Solo Career and Immigration
5. Return to Pesnyary and Leadership Dispute
6. "Pesnyary" Under Bortkevich's Direction
7. Author and Citizen of Two Countries
8. Personal Life
9. Death and Legacy

Youth and Early Career

Leonid Bortkevichwas born on May 25, 1949, in Minsk, Belarus. He exhibited exceptional vocal abilities as a child, becoming a soloist in the Palace of Pioneers' boys' choir. Later, he sang with the "Yunost" Choral Ensemble at the conservatory and graduated from music school as a trumpeter.

Architectural Studies and Debut

Bortkevich pursued architecture at the Architectural College. While studying, he performed as a soloist with the college orchestra and later became vocalist of the vocal-instrumental ensemble "Zolotye Yabloki." He also worked as an architect at the Belarusian Institute for Rural Construction.

Breakthrough with "Pesnyary"

In 1970, Bortkevich joined the legendary vocal-instrumental ensemble "Pesnyary." He quickly became one of its most celebrated vocalists, enchanting audiences with his soulful interpretations. During his tenure with Pesnyary, he graduated from the State Institute of Theatre Arts (GITIS) in Moscow, specializing in directing.

Solo Career and Immigration

In 1980, Bortkevich left Pesnyary to pursue solo endeavors. He recorded and performed independently and later emigrated to the United States with his wife, Olga Korbut, and their son, Richard. He returned to Belarus in 2000.

Return to Pesnyary and Leadership Dispute

In 1999, Bortkevich rejoined Pesnyary as a soloist and remained until the death of its founder, Vladimir Mulyavin, in 2003. After Mulyavin's passing, Bortkevich was expected to lead the ensemble, but the Ministry of Culture appointed Valery Skororonok instead.

"Pesnyary" Under Bortkevich's Direction

Bortkevich and several Pesnyary members formed their own ensemble, "Pesnyary" under the direction of Leonid Bortkevich. This group continued the legacy of the Mulyavin-led Pesnyary until its disbandment in 2008.

Author and Citizen of Two Countries

Bortkevich authored the biographical book "Pesnyary and Olga." He held dual citizenship of the United States and the Republic of Belarus and was a practicing Catholic.

Personal Life

Bortkevich was married three times. His first marriage, to Olga Shumakova, produced a son, Alexei. His second marriage, to gymnast Olga Korbut, lasted 22 years and resulted in a son, Richard. He married his third wife, model Tatyana Rodenko, in 2004 and had a son, Christian.

Death and Legacy

Bortkevich passed away suddenly on April 13, 2021, due to complications from diabetes. He was laid to rest with military honors in the Eastern Cemetery in Minsk. His legacy as a beloved singer, songwriter, and leader of Pesnyary continues to inspire generations.