In December 2000 Maria performed with Igor Butman’s musicians: (Edward Zizak - drums, Anthon Boronin - piano, Vitaly Solomomov - contrabass and Igor Butman - saxophone). The occasion was the “Van Cleef” store opening and the presentation of its new jewelry salon.

On December 30 Maria and Bautman’s quartet were invited with their program to the government country residence on Kashirskoe highway where a great New-Year eve party was held. It was attended by many VIP persons. Among them Russia’s prime minister Mikhail Kasianov and his wife, president’s secretary Alexander Voloshin, Valentina Matvienko and many others. The concert was a great success.