Conductor and Artistic Director
Peter Trofimenko is the founder, artistic director
and conductor of the American Balalaika Symphony. Dr.
Trofimenko was classically trained in Kiev in balalaika
performance, conducting, arranging and composition. He
moved to the United States in 1993. Through sharing his
artistic vision and knowledge, Dr. Trofimenko has created
a group that embraces the rich traditions of the Russian
Music School while drawing on the best of European and
American musical traditions.
Welcome from the Artistic Director
Friends,
The American Balalaika Symphony is shedding a different light on symphonic music. We are committed to developing new and appealing contemporary dimensions. Don't be scared by the word "contemporary." In our case, it does not mean wierd, inaccessible, atonal, or modernistic. This is music written for orchestras to produce a lush and warm sound.
Whenever the word "balalaika" is mentioned, many people think of Russian folk music. The American Balalaika Symphony is a full symphonic orchestra with a complex structure and musical functions that are characteristic of big symphonic orchestras. In fact, our strings are in some ways more sophisticated than "regular" bowed strings. Not only do we have two string groups--balalaikas and domras, each with a distinctly different sound palette--each comes in more configurations than bowed strings and allows for more precision in defining musical functions within the orchestra. Add bayans, which are among the most versatile instruments ever invented, and you have an orchestra that is capable of resolving the most challenging artistic tasks.
We are thrilled to bring quality music into the community and are happy to find such an enthusiastic response from all of you, our audience. It is our goal to put a sparkle in your eyes, a smile on your face, and happiness in your heart!
Peter Trofimenko
Artistic Director
American Balalaika Symphony