Message from the president

 


Hello and welcome to the Sydney Balalaika Orchestra web site. I would like to take this opportunity to explain a few things about the Orchestra. Firstly, the Orchestra is a not for profit organization that is, all income goes toward funding new costumes, instruments, equipment, accommodation on tour and even overseas tours to Russia and China. No members receive payment for performing. We have been incorporated since 1992 although some of the members have been performing together since the 1970's.

The Orchestra consists of many different nationalities (over 13 at the last count) and we rehearse once a week at the Homebush Boys High School hall on Tuesday evenings. The ages of the group start at around 15 and go up to around 80; we consider ourselves as one large happy family.

The aim of the Orchestra is to produce music of the highest order and to produce the best Russian folk music outside of Russia. We consider this a never ending quest and delight in performing in front of new audiences and "spreading the word" about the exquisite nature of Russian Folk music. These audiences, in turn, support us in ticket and CD sales on this quest. We look forward to seeing you soon. Please go to the page with our up and coming performances for more information.

We are always looking for new players and singers and urge you to contact us if you wish to join the orchestra.

Andrew Smith
President