Condolences to family and friends of Eduard Khil 2012-06-04 10:00:00 Vladimir Putin offered his condolences to the family and friends of Russian baritone Eduard Khil, who died in St Petersburg earlier today. The message reads, in part: “I offer my sincere condolences on the tragedy that has struck your family and share the grief felt by all fans of Eduard Khil’s talent, his great flair and brilliant, positive energy. His name is connected to an era in the history of Russian music. Eduard Khil was unique in his extraordinary charm and lyricism, constant in his professionalism, vocal culture and creative taste. Many of the songs he performed became part of the golden fund of the Russian stage.”