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. |
