Rostropovich Released From Russian Hospital

Reports from Russia say the famous cellist and conductor Mstislav Rostropovich has been released from hospital.

Rostropovich was hospitalized last month with what was described as a non-life-threatening condition.

President Vladimir Putin visited Rostropovich during his stay in the hospital, leading to speculation that the musician was in serious condition.

Rostropovich's spokeswoman Natalya Dolezhal said the 79-year-old musician is now feeling well.

Rostropovich is due to celebrate his 80th birthday on March 27.

Copyright (c) 2006. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org

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Mstislav Rostropovich