For fast price quote contact Mikhail Smirnov at Barynya Entertainment

New York Balalaika Duo

Balalaika Duo home | videos | photos | classical balalaika | Balalaika Duo on Facebook | song list

New York Balalaika Duo is based in New York City.  The Duo is available for weddings, private and corporate events, libraries, colleges, schools, assisted living facilities in NYC, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and other states.  Both musicians - balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina and vocalist, garmoshka and guitar player Mikhail Smirnov are members of Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya.

New York Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Photo credit Yuriy Balan New York Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Photo credit Yuriy Balan New York Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Photo credit Yuriy Balan

The Duo is led by Elina Karokhina, top balalaika player and a musician of international renown.  Few females have achieved such levels of greatness on the balalaika as Ms. Karokhina.  Her speed, grace, and fluidity on the instrument must be seen and heard to believe.  A native of St. Petersburg Russia, Ms. Karokhina took up the balalaika as a young teen, and quickly established herself as a rare talent upon the instrument.  She began her formal training at the Mussorgsky College of St. Petersburg and continued her training at the Rimskii-Korsakov Conservatory, which included a residency in Germany.  She returned to her native St. Petersburg, where she earned her Doctorate of Music/Balalaika. Ms. Karokhina served in the Russian military in the Military Ensemble in the Northwest Order of Red Stars.  She also was the balalaika player for the Moscow Circus on several international tours.  She has performed across Russia and in many countries including the United States.  She also belonged to the Russian folk group “Izba Trio”, whose other members also toured with her with the Moscow Circus under the name “Smirnov’s Folk Orchestra".  Over the years, she has also worked with numerous orchestras and artists and has a number of recording credits to her name.  Ms. Karokhina was a regular on the many tourist ships in St. Petersburg during the summer, performing traditional Russian folk songs for tourists with her fellow musicians and giving them a taste of true Russian culture.

Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, State Capella of Saint Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Russia Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, State Capella of Saint Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Russia Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, with balalaika-contrabass player Leonid Bruk Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Russian dancer Alisa

Elina Karokhina immigrated to the United States in October 2009 and currently resides in Union Beach, New Jersey.  She is now the principal balalaika player and musical director for the Russian music/dance company Barynya.  In January 2015 Elina Karokhina was selected to perform the balalaika part with Mariinsky Theatre directed by famous Russian conductor Valery Gergiev in Rodion Shchedrin's opera "The Enchanted Wanderer" at the Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York.  In May 2016 she was hired to play six concerts at the Carnegie Hall in New York City as a part of "THE TRIUMPH OF HOPE" international event.  In September 2016 he appeared at the Carnegie Hall again as a part of "Moscow Gypsy Army" representing rich musical culture of Eastern Europian Roma people.  In January 2017 Elina was hired to play Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's "The Legend of the Invisible City of Kitezh" Suite at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. with the National Symphony Orchestra.  All four performances were under direction of world-famous conductor Sir Mark Elder.  Mikhail Smirnov is a vocalist, garmoshka and guitar player.

CONTACT INFORMATION

To get a price quote, ask any questions please send an email to msmirnov@yahoo.com or call (201)-981-2497 (USA).

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov. Photo by Leonid Bruk
click the image above to see full size high resolution photo

Performance with Washington Balalaika Orchestra, Washington D.C.

In the end of November 2021 balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina was invited to perform two concerts with the Washington Balalaika Orchestra in Virginia and Maryland. The WBS (Washington Balalaika Orchestra) is a community-based orchestra of more than fifty musicians with a mixture of amateur and professional training. Conductor Svetlana Nikonova.

Elina Karokhina with the Washington Balalaika Orchestra, November 2021
Elina Karokhina with the Washington Balalaika Orchestra, November 2021

Elina Karokhina with Washington Balalaika Orchestra video

watch this video on youtube.com website

Concert with Charleston Symphony Orchestra, South Carolina

On Thursday, January 23rd, 2020 Elina Karokhina, and Mikhail Smirnov performed joined concert titled "FROM RUSSIANS WITH LOVE" with Charleston Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Yuriy Bekker. Program of performance: Dmitri Shostakovich Festive Overture, Op. 96, Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky “ Polonaise ” from Eugene Onegin, Sergei Rachmaninoff's Vocalise, Modest Mussorgsky, (arr. Nikolai Rimsky - Korsakov) Night on Bald Mountain, Stravinsky's Firebird Infernal Dance Berceuse Finale, Aram Khachaturian's “Sabre Dance“ from Gayane, Nikolai Rimsky - Korsakov “Flight of the Bumble Bee” from Tale of Tsar Saltan, Russian Folk Song "Oche Chiornie" (Dark Eyes), arr. Carmen Dragon, Lionel Bart, arr. John Bachalis “ From Russia With Love “ from James Bond: From Russia With Love, Maurice Jarre, arr. Bill Holcombe “Laura’s Theme” from Dr. Zhivago, Russian Folk Song "Kalinka", Russian Folk Song "Kamarinskaiya", Russian Folk Song "Valenki", Russian Folk Song "Korobushka", Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky “Finale” from Symphony No . 4 in F minor, Op. 36.


watch this video on www.youtube.com website


watch this video on www.youtube.com website


watch this video on www.youtube.com website

Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC, From Russians With Love Concert, Charleston Symphony Orchestra
Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC, From Russians With Love Concert, Charleston Symphony Orchestra

Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC, From Russians With Love Concert, Charleston Symphony Orchestra
Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC, From Russians With Love Concert, Charleston Symphony Orchestra

Performance with the Mariinsky Theatre at the BAM in Brooklyn, New York

Elina Karokhina, Valery Gergiev, BAM, Howard Gilman Opera House, Brooklyn, New York, January 14, 2015
Elina Karokhina with famous Russian conductor Valery Gergiev

On January 14, 2015 Elina Karokhina was selected to performed balalaika part with Mariinsky Theatre from St. Petersburg, Russia in Rodion Shchedrin's opera "The Enchanted Wanderer" at the BAM - Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York. Some photos and video from Shchedrin’s rarely staged musical treasure, based on the story by Nikolai Leskov are available on Barynya website

Billions, the Showtime series at restaurant Tatiana on Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York

Musicians of ensemble Barynya - balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, contrabass balalaika player Leonid Bruk, and guitar player Alex Efeemenko at the filming of the scene of Billions (ep. 309, 310), the Showtime series at the Russian restaurant Tatiana on Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York on Monday, February 5th 2018. In that episode John Malkovich was playing a role of a murderous Russian oil oligarch named Grigor Andalov. The musicians of Barynya ensemble played a role of Russian musicians.

Barynya Balalaika Trio, Billions, Russian Restaurant Tatiana, Brooklyn, New York  Barynya Balalaika Trio, Billions, Russian Restaurant Tatiana, Brooklyn, New York
click images above to see more photos

Concert in St. Petersburg, Russia

Balalaika Duo performance in St. Petersburg, Russia
view view larger poster

Photo with the Bride and Groom in New York Times (wedding fashion section)

Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov played during Russian-born mezzo-soprano Ksenia Berestovskaya and an American drummer Christopher Oquist's wedding reception at the Russian restaurant Mari Vanna in New York City. Article about that wedding written by VINCENT M. MALLOZZI called "A Pessimist and an Optimist, Building a Life in Sync" appeared in the fashion/wedding section in New York Times on March 17, 2017.

The celebration included jugs of vodka and a continuous loop of folk songs from the old country performed by NY Balalaika Duo Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina. Of her new husband, Ms. Berestovskaya said, "He taught me how to love."  Photo Credit: Jessica Lehrman for The New York Times, NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina The wedding celebration at Mari Vanna, a restaurant in the Flatiron district with a heavy Russian accent.  Photo Credit: Jessica Lehrman for The New York Times, NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina
The wedding celebration at Mari Vanna, a restaurant in the Flatiron district with a heavy Russian accent. The celebration included jugs of vodka and a continuous loop of folk songs from the old country performed by NY Balalaika Duo Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina. Of her new husband, Ms. Berestovskaya said, "He taught me how to love." Photo Credit: Jessica Lehrman for The New York Times.

Solo concert at the Grand Theater in Ellsworth, Maine

Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov performed one hour solo concert on Wednesday, June 24th, 2015 at the Grand Theater for Performing Arts in Ellsworth, Maine. Exact address of the theater: 165 Main Street, Ellsworth, ME 04605. Concert program included instrumental numbers, songs and dances.


Watch this video on www.YouTube.com

1 hour 40 min show at the Shine in Harlem, NYC May 29, 2023


watch this video on www.youtube.com website
 

October 15, 2022. Grand opening of the Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center in Mt Pocono, PA

Performance during Grand opening at the Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center in Mt Pocono, Pennsylvania on Saturday, October 15th, 2022. Over a hundred guests attended the Ribbon Cutting Celebration. Exact address of the venue: 11 Knob Rd, Mt Pocono, PA 18344-1403, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, United States. Performers cast: Elina Karokhina ( domra), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals).

10-15-2022, Pennsylvania Ukrainian musicians, www.cossack.us, Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center Grand opening ceremony, Mt Pocono, Pennsylvania, Saturday October 15th 2022, Ribbon Cutting Celebration, 11 Knob Rd Mt Pocono PA 18344-1403 Mount Pocono Pennsylvania United States, Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (domra)
October 15, 2022. Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center Grand opening ceremony, Mt Pocono, Pennsylvania

 

August 28, 2022. Russian Wedding reception at The Shore Club in Spring Lake, New Jersey

On Sunday, August 28th, 2022 from 6 to 11pm Mikhail and Elina performed during wedding reception (cocktail hour and dinner) at The Shore Club in Spring Lake. The Newlyweds especially wanted the Hopak dance during the dancing part. Exact address of the venue: Shore Club, NJ, 700 NJ-71, Spring Lake, NJ 07762.

Sunday August 28th 2022, 08-28-2022, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Barynya Balalaika Duo, The Shore Club, Spring Lake, New Jersey, Russian Wedding, Shore Club 700 NJ-71 Spring Lake NJ 07762
Russian Wedding reception at The Shore Club in Spring Lake, New Jersey on Sunday, August 28th, 2022

 

August 19, 2022. Anyway Cafe, Brooklyn, New York

On Friday, August 19th, 2022 from 9pm to midnight Mikhail and Elina played at the Anyway Cafe in Brooklyn. Exact address: 1602 Gravesend Neck Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11229.


watch this video on www.youtube.com website
 

August 13, 2022. Wedding at the Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park, New Jersey

On Saturday, August 13th, 2022 around 9pm Mikhail and Elina performed a short segment during wedding reception at the Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park, New Jersey (210 Fifth Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712). Program of the show included just a few songs: песню Вероники Долиной "А хочешь я выучусь шить", Валенки, Хава нагила, Чардаш, Московские окна и Деспозито.

Saturday August 13th 2022, 08-13-2022, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Barynya Russian Balalaika Duo, Asbury Park Hotel, Asbury Park, New Jersey, Russian Wedding, The Asbury Hotel 210 Fifth Ave Asbury Park NJ 07712
Show at the wedding reception, Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park, NJ, Sunday, August 28th, 2022

 

August 13, 2022. Two concerts at the Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, New Jersey

On Saturday August 13th, 2022 musicians of Barynya Balalaika Duo Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina performed two shows at the Historic Cold Spring Village (summer-opening living history village dedicated to life in the first years of American independence) in Cape May, New Jersey. Exact address of the venue: Historic Cold Spring Village, 735 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204. Address for GPS: 720 Rt 9 South, Cape May, NJ 08204. First show: 11:00-11:45pm and second show: 12:00-12:45pm.

Saturday August 13th 2022, 08-13-2022, Михаил Смирнов, Элина Карохина, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Barynya Balalaika Duo, Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May, New Jersey, 720 Rt 9 South Cape May NJ 08204
Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, New Jersey, Saturday, August 13th, 2022

 

August 6, 2022. Ukrainian wedding ceremony at the Drumore Estate in Pequea, Pennsylvania (Martic Township in Lancaster County)

On Saturday, August 6th, 2022 around 4pm Mikhail and Elina performed during Ivan and Andrea Ukrainian wedding ceremony at the Drumore Estate in Pequea, Pennsylvania - Lancaster's popular wedding venue located in Martic Township of the Lancaster County. Exact address: 331 Red Hill Road, Pequea, PA 17565. Requested music included Kolomeyka, Lemko Wedding Song, Yellow by Coldplay, Rainbow by Kasey Musgraves, and other selections.

Saturday August 6th 2022, 08-06-2022, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Barynya Duo, Drumore Estate, Pequea, Pennsylvania, Martic Township, Lancaster County, Ukrainian Wedding Ceremony, Drumore Estate 331 Red Hill Road Pequea PA 17565
Ukrainian wedding ceremony, Drumore Estate in Pequea, Pennsylvania on Saturday, August 6th, 2022

 

July 24, 2022. Valentina's 70th Surprise Birthday party at Donatella Restaurant in Harrington Park, NJ

On Sunday, July 24th, 2022 from 1 to 5pm Mikhail and Elina performed at the Valentina's Surprise 70th Birthday party at Donatella Restaurant, 12 Tappan Road, Harrington Park, New Jersey. Музыканты исполнили все любимые песни именинницы: "Миллион алых роз", "Лаванда", "Очи Черные", "Коробейники", "Смуглянка" и многие другие.

Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, воскресенье 24-ого июля 2022-ого года, 07-24-2022, Sunday July 24th 2022, Ensemble Barynya, Barynya Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Donatella Restaurant 12 Tappan Road Harrington Park New Jersey
July 24th, 2022. Valentina's Surprise 70th Birthday party, Donatella Restaurant, Harrington Park, NJ

 

July 20, 2022. Virtual performance for Schechter Holocaust Services in Waltham, Massachusetts

Wednesday, July 20th, 2022, 1:30pm. Live performance via Zoom for Schechter Holocaust Services in Waltham, Massachusetts. The program was sponsored by Jewish Family & Children’s Service, 1430 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02451. Title of the event: Virtual "Cafe Hakalah".


watch this video on www.youtube.com website
Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, среда 20-ого июля 2022-ого года, 07-20-2022, Wednesday July 20th 2022, New York Balalaika Duo, Schechter Holocaust Services, Waltham, Massachusetts, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Jewish Family & Children’s Service, 1430 Main Street Waltham MA 02451
July 20th, 2022. Virtual performance for Schechter Holocaust Services in Waltham, Massachusetts

 

July 16, 2022. Birthday party in Carbon County, Pennsylvania

Mikhail and Elina played for about an hour during birthday party in Carbon County, Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 16th, 2022. Performance took place at a brand new private house. About 25 adults and ten kids attended the event. Артисты поздравили именинницу, попели, поиграли, повеселили гостей, пофотографировались с виновницей торжества и её родителями.

Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, суббота 16-ого июля 2022-ого года, 07-16-2022, Saturday July 16th 2022, Gypsy Singers Musicians, Pocono, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Palmerton, PA, Pennsylvania
July 16th, 2022. Birthday party in Carbon County, Pennsylvania

 

July 16, 2022. Russian Adoption Reunion 2022 at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

On Saturday, July 16th, 2022 musicians and dancers of ensemble Barynya - Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Alisa Egorova, Valentina Kvasova, Alexandr Rudoy - performed 30 minutes show for adoptees ages 8-21, and their families during Russian Adoption Reunion 2022 event that took place at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, 5875 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ONTARIO L2G 3K7, Canada. There were adoptees from Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan and China. Totasl guests count: 250. The program included "Korobushka", "Kalinka", "Valenkee" ("Woolen Boots"), "Mardzhandzha", "Hopak", "Dark Eyes", "The Moon Is Shining Brightly" and "Bottle Dance" based on the "Fiddler On The Roof".

Ensemble Barynya, Ансамбль Барыня, Валентина Квасова, Александр Рудой, Алиса Егорова, Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, суббота 16-ое июля 2022-ого года, 07-16-2022, Saturday July 16 2022, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Valentina Kvasova (dancer), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Alisa Egorova (dancer), Alexander Rudoy (dancer), Niagara Falls, ONTARIO, Canada, Russian Adoption Reunion 2022, Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, 5875 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ONTARIO  L2G 3K7, Canada
Russian Adoption Reunion 2022 at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, July 16, 2022

 

July 14, 2022. Thursday Night Out Summer Concert Series in Downtown Oak Park, Illinois

Musicians Nina Tritenichenko, Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina performed from 5pm to 9pm in downtown Oak Park, Illinois during Thursday Night Out - downtown Oak Park’s popular dine-around summer series that run every Thursday between June 2nd to August 25th from 5 to 9pm. Downtown Oak Park restaurants offer a variety of drinks, appetizers, entrees and desserts on the Thursday Night Out menu and allow diners to eat inside or carry out. Tables are also set up outside for patrons to enjoy dining al fresco.

Цыганское шоу в Чикаго, Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, Нина Тритениченко, четверг, 14-ое июля 2022-ого года, 07-14-2022, Thursday July 14 2022, Gypsy Band Chicago, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Nina Tritenichenko (bayan-accordion), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals), Oak Park, Illinois, Downtown Oak Park, Thursday Night Out
Downtown Oak Park, Illinois, Thursday Night Out, dine-around summer concert series, Thursday, July 14th, 2022

 

July 1, 2022. Concert at the Just Home Adult Medical Care in East Brunswick, NJ

On Friday, July 1st, 2022 July 1, 2022 Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina performed one hour concert at the Just Home Adult Medical Care in East Brunswick, New Jersey for Russian speaking senior citizens. Program included Russian, Jewish, Gypsy, Ukrainian, American music and songs as well as some classical pieces.

Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, пятница, 1-ое июля 2022-ого года, 07-01-2022, Friday July 1st 2022, Barynya Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals, garmoshka), Just Home Adult Medical Care, East Brunswick, New Jersey, 7 Edgeboro Road East Brunswick New Jersey 08816
Just Home Adult Medical Care in East Brunswick, New Jersey, Friday, July 1st, 2022

 

Saturday, June 5th, 2021. Gypsy Night at the Anyway Cafe in New York City

Russian Gypsy singer Natasha Stolichnaya and NYC Gypsy Band performed for 3 hours at the Anyway Cafe in New York City on Saturday, June 5th, 2021 (8 to 11pm). Cast of performers: Natasha Stolichnaya, Frida Anuarbek (keyboard, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika virtuoso), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals, garmoshka). Repertoire: Russian Gypsy songs and music, popular Russian songs, classical music, international hit songs.

Цыганское шоу в Нью-Йорк Сити, Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, Фрида Ануарбек, Наташа Столичная, Ист-Вилладж, Манхэттен, суббота, 5-ого июня 2021-ого года, 06-05-2021, Saturday, June 5, 2021, Gypsy Band NYC, Moscow Gypsy Army, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Frida Anuarbek (keyboard, vocals), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Russian Gypsy singer Natasha Stolichnaya, Anyway Cafe NYC, New York City, 34 E 2nd St, New York, New York
Saturday, June 5th, 2021, Anyway Cafe New York City

 

Saturday, March 27th, 2021. Anyway Cafe Brooklyn

On Saturday, March 27th, 2021 from 8 to 11pm Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals) and Elina Karokhina (balalaika virtuoso) played Russian, Gypsy, classical and contemporary music at the Anyway CafeBrooklyn Exact address of the venue: Anyway Cafe 1602 Gravesend Neck Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11229.

Энивэй Кафе в Бруклине, Нью-Йорк, Элина Карохина, Михаил Смирнов, Суббота, 27-ого марта 2021-ого года, 03-27-2021, Balalaika Duo Anyway Cafe Brooklyn, 03-27-2021, Saturday, March 27th, 2021, 8-11pm. Anyway Cafe Brooklyn, Russian Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, 1602 Gravesend Neck Road Brooklyn New York  11229
Balalaika Duo at the Anyway Cafe Brooklyn, 03-27-2021, Saturday, March 27th, 2021

 

12-01-2020. Virtual performance for Musical Bridges Around the World "Facebook Live for Giving Tuesday" event in San Antonio, Texas

On Tuesday, December 1st, 2020 Elina Karokhina (balalaika) and Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals) provided brief virtual performance for Musical Bridges Around the World Facebook Live for Giving Tuesday! Mission to support and bring multicultural performing and visual arts in San Antonio, Texas and beyond. Musicians performed two Russian winter songs and answered a few questions.

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Russian dance music and song ensemble Barynya, 12-01-2020, Tuesday December 1st 2020, Virtual performance, Musical Bridges Around the World Facebook Live for Giving Tuesday event, San Antonio, Texas
12-01-2020, Musical Bridges Around the World Facebook Live for Giving Tuesday event, San Antonio, Texas


watch this video on www.youtube.com website
 

Balalaika Duo video promo


watch this video on www.youtube.com
 

Saturday, August 6th, 2016, Adult Day Health Care Center "Zabota", Allston, Massachusetts

NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov NY Balalaika Duo, balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov
click on the images above to see full-size high resolution photos

Photos from festivals and public concerts in 2016

NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina
NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov NY Balalaika Duo, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov

Russian Tea Room, New York City, November 2015, Lotos Foundation Event

Balalaika Duo, Russian Tea Room NYC   Balalaika Duo, Russian Tea Room NYC   Balalaika Duo, Russian Tea Room NYC   Balalaika Duo, Russian Tea Room NYC
click images above to see full-size high resolution photos

April 2014, Eastern Branch Library, Shrewsbury, New Jersey

NYC Balalaika Duo, Shrewsbury, New Jersey,
Click the image above to see full-size screen of the www.redbankgreen.com/2014/04/shrewsbury-balalaikas-ringing.html

School assembly dance and music program - 3 min 34 sec video


watch this video on www.youtube.com website

August 2013, Amytville Library, Long Island, New York

The Cabaret show concert took place on Saturday, August 3, 2013 at the Amityville Public Library, corner of Oak and John Streets in Amitvylle, NY 11701-2911. Elina Karokhina (balalaika), and Mikhail Smirnov (guiar) performed world music while show dancers were changing their outfits.


watch this video on www.youtube.com

June 2013, New York City

Photo by www.GoshaArt.com from the event in New York City in June 2013. More photos from the event in NYC by Gosha Shif.

NYC Balalaika Duo. Photo by www.GoshaArt.com
Click the image above to see full size image. Photo by www.GoshaArt.com

 

12-08-2012, Russian Tea Room, New York City

Elina and Mikhail performed during private event at the Russian Tea Room in New York City on Saturday, December 8, 2012.

12-08-2012, Saturday December 8th 2012, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Russian Tea Room, New York City, The Russian Tea Room 150 W 57th St New York NY 10019
12-08-2012, Russian Tea Room, New York City

 

08-07-2012, Morristown Green, Morristown, New Jersey

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, and dancer Valentina Kvasova performed during international festival at the Morristown Green in Morristown, New Jersey on Tuesday, August 7th, 2012 from noon to 1:15pm.

08-07-2012, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Morristown Green, Morristown, New Jersey, Tuesday August 7th 2012
08-07-2012, Morristown Green, Morristown, New Jersey

November 28, 2011. Nyack's Blini, Holy Virgin Protection Russian Orthodox Church

It is always fun to play during Bliny Russian Maslenitsa Pancakes Event in Nayck, New York. This colorful Russian Orthodox Event takes place every year at the Holy Virgin Protection Russian Orthodox Church located at 51 Prospect St, Nyack, NY 10960. On November 28, 2011 Musicians of Barynya Balalaika Duo played mix of Russian, Cossack and Gypsy music and songs as well as some classical pieces.

NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Nyack, New York, Holy Virgin Protection Russian Orthodox Church, 51 Prospect St, Nyack, NY 10960
NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Holy Virgin Protection Russian Orthodox Church, Bliny Event

Temple Israel, JCC of the Greater Five Towns, Long Island, New York

On Saturday, October 29th, 2011, from 8:30pm to 9:45 members of Barynya Balalaika Duo Mikhail Smirnov & Elina Karokhina provided music during Jewish event at the Temple Israel on Long Island. Exact address: JCC of the Greater Five Towns, 140 Central Avenue, Lawrence, New York 11559. Program included Jewish Klezmer music as well as Russian, classical and contemporary pieces.

Barynya Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Long Island, New York, Temple Israel, JCC of the Greater Five Towns, 140 Central Avenue, Lawrence, New York  11559
Barynya Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Long Island, New York, Temple Israel, JCC of the Greater Five Towns, 140 Central Avenue, Lawrence, New York 11559

Friday, March 11th, Old York Road Temple - Beth Am, Abington, Pennsylvania

Balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina and singer, guitar and Russian garmoshka player performed during a silver anniversary of Cantor Elena Zarkh serving at the Old York Road Temple-Beth Am.

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Abington, PA, March 2011
Click to open full size scan
or read the article at the www.jewishexponent.com website.

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Abington, PA, March 2011
Click to open full size scan

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Abington, PA, March 2011
Click to open full size scan

Anyway cafe NYC. Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), February 2011


watch this video on www.youtube.com website

April 29th, 2010. Balalaika Piano Duo, wedding ceremony in Boston, MA

Balalaika/Piano Duo led by Elina Karokhina provided music for wedding ceremony on April 29th, 2010 in Boston, MA. The music included The Swan (Le Cygne) from Carnival of the Animals by Saint-Saens, "Here Comes The Bride" Wedding March, J.S.Bach - Arioso from Cantata BWV 156 (Adagio), Ave Maria - Schubert, "CANON IN D" by PACHELBEL, WEDDING MARCH by MENDELSSOHN, "CLAIR DE LUNE" by DEBUSSY, and other selections.

Balalaika and Piano Duo, Classical Music for wedding ceremony, Elina Karokhina

December 25–27, 2010, Tuen Mun Plaza, Main Atrium, Hong Kong

December 25 through December 27, 2010 Elina and Mikhail and four Russian dancers of ensemble Barynya performed several shows at Tuen Mun Plaza in Hong Kong during Christmas Festival. Cast: Balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, garmoshka and guitar player / singer Mikhail Smirnov, dancer Alexey Maltsev, dancer Alexander Rudoy, dancer Anna Brovkina and dancer Olga Yeliseyeva

Barynya Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, December 25–27 2010, Tuen Mun Plaza, Main Atrium, Hong Kong

December 16th, 2010 Russian consulate NYC, New York, USA

Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Leonid Bruk and singer Irina Zagornova at the RUSAL USA corporate party.

Barynya at the Russian Consulate NYC
Click to see all photos from the event at the Russian Consulate NYC

Song list

Камаринская, 24 каприс Николо Паганини, Тум-балалайка, Крутится вертится шар голубой, Валенки, Хава-Нагила, Светит месяц, Огинский-Полонез, Я встретил вас, Цыганская фантазия, Чардаш Монти, Турецкий марш-Моцарт, Доктор Живаго, Ах ты береза, From Russia with love, Classic medley (поппурри на самые известные темы), Jewish medley (поппурри на еврейские темы), Уральская плясовая, Семеновна, Темная ночь, Шаланды, Тонкая рябина, Шутка Баха, Бесаме-мучо, О соле мио, Подмосковные вечера, Калинка, Дорогой длинною, Очи черные, Катюша, Танго-la Kumparsita, Брызги шампанского, Как заставил меня муж парну банюшку топить русская песня, Танго-Ревность, Вальс Грезы, Ysterday-The Beatles, Michelle-The Beatles, Есть только миг, Тройка, Ах вы сени, Кадриль, Во кузнице, Полюшко-поле, Яблочко, Гопак, Французское поппурри, Шостакович Вальс № 2, Вальс из фильма 'Евгений Онегин', Вальс Осенний сон, Танго из фильма 'Запах женщины', Синатра 'Путники в ночи', Memory из мюзикла 'кэт', Edith Piaf La vie en rose, Сердце на снегу, Танго Черные глаза, Дари дари, Две гитары, Разговор со счастьем, Коробейники, Мохнатый шмель, Ой мороз мороз, Food song - песенка про русскую еду, То не вечер ветку клонит, Тонкая рябина, Bochelli-Time to say goodbye, Астор Пьяццола-Либертанго, По Дону гуляет, Как за Доном за рекой, Из за острова, Гори гори любовь цыганки, Только грянет над Москвою, Скороговорки, Эх дороги, Барыня, Вечерний звон, Аве Мария, Ты ж меня Пидманула, Виновата ли я, Андреев Вальс Грезы, Попурри Fiddler of the roof, Украинская песня Варенички, Вальс Дунайские волны.

Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Private Party, Brooklyn, NY Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Happy Island Cenior Center, Staten Island, New York Balalaika Duo, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Maslenitsa in Albany, New York

Mexico, Chihuahua, 5th International Festival-2009.

Lev Zabeginsky and Mikhail Smirnov during the 5th International Festival in Mexico, Chihuahua, ten days tour with Russian folk dance and music ensemble Barynya).

click on images below to see full size high resolution photos

2009 tour in Chihuahua, Mexico   2009 tour in Chihuahua, Mexico   2009 tour in Chihuahua, Mexico

PHOTOS

New York Balalaika Duo: Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov
New York Balalaika Duo: Lev Zabeginsky and Mikhail Smirnov

New York Balalaika Duo Lev Zabeginsky and Mikhail Smirnov
view full size photo

Balalaika virtuoso Lev Zabeginsky

Lev Zabeginsky from New York City is composer, arranger, virtuoso balalaika and domra player. Lev was born in Moscow, Russia. He started to play Russian folk music at the age of six. In 1952 he had played with The Youth Folk Quartet in Kremlin at the Joseph Stalin's birthday concert. He graduated from the St.Petersburg Conservatory in 1970 with master degree in composition.

Lev Zabeginsky
View full size photo of Lev Zabeginsky

Mikhail Smirnov - garmoshka, guitar, vocals

Mikhail Smirnov is a singer, garmoshka, gusli, balalaika contrabass and guitar player from Fort Lee, New Jersey. Mikhail was born in Moscow, Russia. His specialty is traditional Russian folk music and songs from various regions of Russia. As a student of Moscow State University of Culture and Arts Mikhail went to many different parts of Russia such as Tver, Smolensk and Belgorod to collect Russian folklore. In folklore expeditions he had recorded over 100 hours of Russian folk songs.

Mikhail Smirnov, photo from TV.com website

Mikhail recieved his Master's degree from the Moscow State University of Culture and Arts. As a child, he was a member of the famous "Moscow Boys Chorus" - one of the most prestigious all-male choirs in Russia. Before coming to the United States in 1991, Mikhail was a soloist in a several Russian folk dance and music groups including the Moscow State Center for Russian song, "Russkaya Pesnya", under the direction of Nadezhda Babkina.

"Superstars of Dance", NBC, January 4 - January 26, 2009

Mikhail Smirnov with producer and judges of the show Superstars of Dance, NBC, 2009

In January 2009 Mikhail Smirnov was featured on national TV, NBC's "SUPERSTARS OF DANCE" - breathtaking international dance competition led by executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller (American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance). This prestigious dance competition hosted by Michael Flatley ("Lord of the Dance") and Susie Castillo, a former Miss USA. Mikhail Smirnov was one of eight judges to decide which country will win. Of course, he can was not able to be judging Team of Russia... The show premiered on NBC network on January 4th and aired through January 26th, 2009.

Lev Zabeginsky and Mikhail Smirnov videos (with Barynya ensemble)

"Two Step Dance" (balalaika solo starts at 42 seconds)

watch this video on www.youtube.com website

"Volga Boatmen" (with singer Sasha Menshikov)

watch this video on www.youtube.com website

"Korobushka" (Mikhail Smirnov)

watch this video on www.youtube.com website

"Two guitars" (with dancers)

watch this video on www.youtube.com website

Mikhail Gorbachev's Liberty Medal Award Gala
National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, PA
September 2008

New York Balalaika Duo: Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov and other ensemble Barynya musicians and dancers performed during diner Gala after the Liberty Medal 2008 was presented to former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev by President George H.W. Bush. Official ceremony took place on Thursday, September 18, 2008 at The National Constitution Center located at 525 Arch St. on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall. Dancers and musicians of Barynya ensemble entertained a black-tie dinner for more than 1,000 guests. Audience included President George H. W. Bush, Tom Brokaw, Dikembe Mutumbo and Van Cliburn. Barynya performed both concert music and dance throughout the evening. President's Bush and Gorbachev were thrilled. World known concert pianist Van Cliburn shake hands with the balalaika virtuoso Lev Zabeginsky.

Barynya at Mikhail Gorbachev's Liberty Medal Award Gala 2008
view photos

Russian folk music and dance concert in Brooklyn, New York
November 22, 2008

BARYNYA MIDWEST TOUR 2008.
September 23 - November 10, 2008

Lev and Mikhail joined ensemble Barynya for Midwest Tour 2008 started on September 25 in Roseau, MN. Last concert - Monday, November 10, 2008 in Hannibal, MO. 35 full lenght concerts and 3 matinees.

Barynya midwest tour 2008
Barynya midwest tour 2008 album 01
Barynya midwest tour 2008
Barynya midwest tour 2008 album 02

Concert at Windsor Terrace Public Library, May 2008.

Leonid Bruk, Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov
click the photo above to see more photos and videos

Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens.
TV Chanel "RUSSIA TODAY", New York City
December 2007.

New York Balalaika Duo: Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov
New York Balalaika Duo: Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov

In the end of 2007 Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov and other members of ensemble Barynya were leading a group of Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens (Ded Moroz and Snegurochka) to greet New Yorkers and promote new TV Channel "RUSSIA TODAY".

Barynya Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, New York City, December 2007Barynya Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, New York City, December 2007
view all photos by Dalia Bagdonaite

CONTACT INFORMATION

To get a price quote, ask any questions please send an email to msmirnov@yahoo.com or call (201)-981-2497 (USA).

RELATED LINKS


 

Live Music Balalaika Band - Wedding Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve - in Scottsville, Virginia - October 8, 2022

DJ Alisa, bilingual MC-Tamada Mikhail and eight piece live music band provided music and entertainment for mixed Russian-Jewish-American wedding reception in Scottsville, Virginia on Saturday, October 8th, 2022. For their venue newlyweds selected Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve, 5600 Moonlight Dr, Scottsville, VA 24590.

Russian-Jewish Wedding, Saturday October 8 2022, 10-08-2022, Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve 5600 Moonlight Dr Scottsville VA 24590, DJ Alisa
Russian-Jewish-American wedding in Scottsville, Virginia on Saturday, October 8th, 2022
Russian-Jewish Wedding, Saturday October 8 2022, 10-08-2022, Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve 5600 Moonlight Dr Scottsville VA 24590, DJ Alisa
Russian-Jewish-American wedding in Scottsville, Virginia on Saturday, October 8th, 2022

Despacito - Russian-Jewish Live Music Wedding Balalaika Band

watch this video on www.youtube.com

Smuglyanka (singer Mikhail Smirnov)

watch this video on www.youtube.com

Dark Eyes (Mikhail Smirnov)

watch this video on www.youtube.com

Russian music duo from Boston
  Russian music duo from Boston - Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Boris Fogel (piano). video

Flying Balalaika Brothers
  Flying Balalaika Brothers - Russian music band from Austin, Texas. video

Russian Balalaika Duo
  Russian Balalaika Duo - program of Russian, Ukrainian, Gypsy, Cossack, Klezmer, and international music and songs performed on balalaika, garmoshka and guitars. New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania. video

Lina Karokhina
  Lina Karokhina - balalaika virtuoso from Boston, MA. video

Alex Siniavski
  Alex Siniavski - balalaika virtuoso and Gypsy guitar virtuoso from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. video

New York Balalaika Orchestra
  New York Balalaika Orchestra performs at Russian Orthodox weddings, fundraising balls, large scale social events, Doctor Zhivago's style corporate parties. video

Brooklyn Balalaikas
  Brooklyn Balalaikas - Russian Folk Music Trio from Brooklyn, New York. Artistic Director Leonid Bruk. video

Russian Band
  RUSSIAN BAND - Gypsy, Ukrainian, Russian music and songs. Instruments: balalaika, domra, drums, garmoshka (Russian button accordion), Gypsy guitar, classic guitar, contrabass balalaika, cello and vocals. video

Balalaika Russian Dance and Music Trio
  Balalaika Russian Dance and Music Trio - Russian Cossack dance, balalaika and garmoshka music from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Balalaika prime Simon Lemberskiy
  Balalaika prime Simon Lemberskiy from Brooklyn, New York.

Balalaika virtuoso Lev Zabeginsky
  Balalaika virtuoso Lev Zabeginsky from New York City.

Balalaika contrabass Leonid Bruk
  Balalaika Contrabass player Leonid Bruk from Brooklyn, New York.

New York Balalaika Duo
  New York Balalaika Duo - balalaika player Lev Zabeginsky and Mikhail Smirnov (vocals, garmoshka, guitar).

Kalinka Duo: Sergey Vashchenko-balalaika, Vladimir Kaliazine-bayan, Austin, TX
  Kalinka Duo - Sergey Vashchenko-balalaika, Vladimir Kaliazine-bayan from Austin, TX.

Sergey Vashchenko
  Balalaika virtuoso Sergey Vashchenko from Austin, TX.

Balalaika virtuoso Sasha Ressetar
  Sasha (Alexander) Ressetar - Balalaika virtuoso from Harrisburg, PA.

Serge Rogozin
  Serge Rogozin - balalaika player, historian, writer from New York. video

Barynya
  Barynya - traditional Russian music and dance ensemble from New York. Artistic director Mikhail Smirnov. video

Moscow Gypsy Army
  Moscow Gypsy Army - Gypsy Roma dance, music, song ensemble New York City. video

CONTACT INFORMATION

To get a price quote, ask any questions please send an email to msmirnov@yahoo.com or call (201)-981-2497 (USA).

site map | link to us | contact