symphony orchestras. The singer had numerous concert tours outside of the Soviet Union, where she received praise from critics. In 1996, Lamara Chkonia moved permanently to Madrid to live with her youngest daughter, soprano Eteri Lamoris. There she engaged in teaching, leaving occasionally to conduct master classes in France and Portugal. Having 40-years of experience in teaching, Lamara Chkonia nurtured many singers (including her own daughters: Eteri Lamoris and Natela Nicoli). In September 2011, the 80th Anniversary of Lamara Chkonia was celebrated at Batumi Music and Art Center. Accolades In 1976, she was awarded People's Artist of the USSR, the highest artistic honour of the time. In 1984, the Higher Education Commission of the USSR awarded her the title of professor of the Higher Academy of Music. Lamara Ckronia's State Awards include: "Znak Pocheta" (Order of the Badge of Honor), USSR 1974 «Кредо» (Credo), and "Орден Великомученицы Варвары" (order of St. Barbara) Ukraine 2011; "Order of King Tamar” and The Presidential Order of Excellence", Republic of Georgia 2011 Premio "Cigno D'Oro," Italy 2011 References 1930 births Living people People from Batumi Mingrelian women Tenth convocation members of the Soviet of Nationalities 20th-century women opera singers from Georgia (country) Operatic sopranos from Georgia (country) Soviet women singers