FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE: The conversion of sacred spaces could also be said to have influenced the performances in Cork of the chamber choir Rozhdestvo from St Petersburg last week.

Included in a programme of exhibitions, lectures and recitals arranged by UCC, these singers were given shamefully little publicity by their hosts; although their audience at the Honan Chapel was small they won - and deserved - a standing ovation for their thrilling renditions of Russian religious music. Conducted by Olga Stupnova, this internationally-acclaimed seven-strong group was made up of singers of operatic training and quality; their layered, almost orchestral sound was a reminder that the restoration of a banished devotional tradition is something else for which to thank Perestroika. Concerts were also given at St Fin Barre's Cathedral, the English Market and the Student Centre.

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: Some organisations in Cork delighted in the opportunity afforded by the year as European Capital of Culture to include foreign experiences and exchanges. Among the most adventurous was the schedule of international residencies arranged by the Cork Artists' Collective, whose final exhibition Terminal ends at Triskel on November 24th. The UK, Turkey, India, Japan and China were among the countries involved in the programme, and on November 23rd Sun Xui Chong and Deng Dafei will conclude the year-long series of artists' talks with Niamh Lawlor speaking about her residency in China.