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From Folk Songs to Modern Music, the Balalaika Plays On
The triangular shaped wooden instrument known as the balalaika has strong roots in Russian culture and has become popular in orchestras around the world. The actual era of the balalaika's origin is largely unknown, but it became popular in the 19th century as a village instrument for jesters, whose tunes often ridiculed the Russian Tsars. There are several theories about its curious triangular shape.
Balalaikas are known for their three sides, which some believe is a symbol of the Holy Trinity. Since musical instruments were largely banned during the early Russian Orthodox years, this theory seems doubtful. It may make more sense that the first balalaikas were made by peasants out of pumpkins. Once cut into quarters, a pumpkin resembles the balalaika shape. This theory was presented in Dead Souls, and unfinished novel by famous writer and historian Nikolai Gogol. Another theory that's floating around is based on the boat builders. After the musical ban was lifted, some believe that boat builders were the only ones with wood working experience so they created the instruments to look like the front of boats.
The father of the balalaika is Vassily Vassilievich Andreyev. When he heard a local peasant playing, he knew he must introduce the instrument to the masses. With the help of other Russian craftsman, Andreyev developed multiple balalaika sizes, such as primo, sekunda, alto, bass, and contrabass. He began gathering more balalaika enthusiasts and orchestras were formed that were strongly supported by Tsarist Russia, and later, the Soviet Union. The working class was the symbol of folk music and the Soviet government took pleasure in producing talented ensemble groups such as the Osipov State Balalaika Orchestra.
Russian folk music ensembles became so popular that the trend traveled to countries everywhere. Balalaikas could be found in Europe, Australia, Japan, and North America. In addition to orchestras, popular music groups can be seen incorporating the balalaika's unique sounds into their songs. The Russian-American rock band the Red Elvises slaps the contrabass balalaika, as well as the Australian band Vulgargrad and the all-girl Norwegian pop group Katzenjammer.
You may have heard that a violin "sings", but did you know that the balalaika "chatters"? Its name was derived from the Old Slavonic language. Balakat means "to chat" and the unique sounds of the balalaika tell a story, as if in conversation. Whether the story is inspiring, or whether the tale is tumultuous, the balalaika can handle a large range of emotions. Russia's history and character will continue to live on through this iconic instrument and listeners will love it for a very long time.
About the Author
I enjoy reading, writing, traveling. My favorite color is red. My favorite food is italian. I married a Russian woman via HotRussianBrides.com and love learning about Russian culture and international marriages.
Russian folk music Kasatchok