This extraordinary trio is a rare
and in a way unique ensemble, as it consists of the bayan and
two domras - a combination seldom heard. The domra is a three
stringed Russian folk instrument and historically originates from
the Arabian tambur. Both domra and bayan are considered folk instruments
primarily, but have been brought to an academic level and are
now treated equally with other instruments at musical institutions
in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union.
The artists named their trio "Nata
Bene", which in Latin means "note well".
A few words about the performers:
Vladimir Balyk was born in Ukraine
in 1958. He received his musical education in Ternopol, Lavov
(Ukrainian cities) and Moscow. Currently, he holds a teaching
position at the Astrakhan's State Conservatory (Southern Russia),
where he was appointed Professor in 1995. In the same year he
become a visiting professor at the Ino Mirkovic Musical Academy
in Lovran, Croatia. Prize winner of the Klingenthal Competition,
Vladimir Balyk, composes original works for the bayan, gives lectures,
and is heavily involved in all sorts of accordion activities.
Natalya Balyk studied at the Astrakhan
Conservatory and completed her candidacy at the St Petersburg
Conservatory. Currently she holds a teaching post at the Astrakhan
Conservatory. Natalya Balyk (Vladimir's wife) is a concert solo
artist of the Astrakhan Philharmonic Orchestra.
Natalya Vorobinova was born in 1970,
and was a student of Natalya Balyk at the Astrakhan Conservatory.
Natalya performs solo and with the Astrakhan Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Trio have won many international
prizes in the category of Chamber Music at competitions in Castelfidardo,
Klingenthal and France.
Their repertoire is wide and open
although their main focus is on classical chamber music. Their
program for this recording is interesting and consists of classical
pieces as well as some rag time and Russian folk pieces, providing
a nice variety for the listener.
The sound of this ensemble is extraordinary
as it combines strong, powerful bayan and the two domras as soft
plucked instruments. There is no doubt that the performers are
artists of the highest professional calibre. Their extraordinary
technical brilliance, combined with refined musical taste and
sensibility, are a real musical treat of the highest standard.
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