The American Balalaika Symphony (ABS) is a full symphony orchestra comprised of an internationally diverse mix of 50-plus musicians from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Each concert season, ABS performs a stunning range of music from beloved Russian folk melodies to classical favorites to rarely heard symphonic masterpieces, often with prominent virtuoso soloists from around the world.

Unlike a traditional symphony orchestra, ABS fans enjoy the distinctive shimmering sound of a balalaika orchestra, which uses Russian plucked string instruments such as the balalaika and domra rather than bowed instruments such as the violin and cello, and the artistry of rapid tremolo playing that makes these instruments so unique.

Today there are fewer than seven balalaika orchestras in the United States. Unlike most of the others, ABS rounds out its balalaika ensemble with full wind and percussion sections and unusual additions, such as the bayan (Russian button accordion), gusli (Russian table harp), and cimbalom (similar to a hammered dulcimer).

By combining the rich traditions of the Russian Music School with the best of European and American music, founder, artistic director, and conductor Peter Trofimenko has created a truly unique American orchestra that, with each concert, produces a rare and wonderful experience for lovers of great classical music.

In recognition of its achievements, ABS was recently awarded the Grand Prize in the 2007 International Music Golden Trophy Competition, held in New York. A panel of six distinguished judges from the United States, Japan, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine selected the ABS from among 87 participants from around the world. Also in 2007, ABS took the Grand Prix prize at the 5th annual international competition, Musical Vladivostok 2007, held in Vladivostok, Russia under the auspices of Russia's Federal Culture and Cinematography Agency. In May 2008, ABS conductor and artistic director, Peter Trofimenko was honored by the prestigious Russian Academy of Folk Music.

Although a young orchestra, the American Balalaika Symphony is developing a dedicated following throughout the Washington metropolitan area for its distinctive performances and uncommon repertoire of music, including rare and seldom heard pieces, all individually arranged for a balalaika orchestra by Maestro Trofimenko.

A true community organization, ABS strives to stimulate interest in classical music and to pass on the musical arts by teaching music lovers how to play the balalaika and domra and perform in concert. ABS concerts are also accessible and affordable, and presented in a warm and hospitable environment that provides a fascinating glimpse into Russian music and culture.