What was cultural diplomacy like 100 years ago?

From a spontaneous idea to international recognition...

It's January 1, 1919, a poetry evening of one of the country-known writers. One of the listeners is the leader of the state, also a former journalist. The state he leads used to be supported by the countries which appeared defeated after the World War, and is now at risk of revolutionary hostilities caused by another political movement. The state urgently needs a survival plan.

Step-by-step, note-by-note

Music written by prominent national composers made part of the evening and by changing one mind, it changed the following 100 years. Amazed by the works he heard, the state leader started to view it as a powerful instrument.

In a couple of weeks...

a chorus to represent the state internationally was created and supported by a special legislative act.

In a month...

when the chorus was actively practicing their performance, they had to be evacuated because of a military invasion. Only 30 out of 78 singers agreed. New members were then accepted from other cities. The conductor of the chorus was frustrated but did not want to give up the idea.

In three months...