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approximately 27 inches in length. The scale length is 430 mm. The body has a classical triangular shape. The back is slightly bowed and made with stave
construction in Sheesham. The darker back contrasts with the light-colored wood
of the soundboard.
The Balalaika strings are tuned above middle C to A, E, E (1st-3rd). The 1st string is the thinnest and lays over more frets than the 2nd and 3rd strings.
Use a piano or electronic tuner as a reference for tuning. The tension on each
tuning peg can be adjusted by tightening or loosing the screw on the top of the
peg. To play, the left-hand notes the strings while the index finger of the right-hand strums high on the soundboard near the neck. The dark Sheesham on
the soundboard is decorative but also protects the soundboard from the
strumming.
The Balalaika most likely evolved from the Oriental dombra, which is still
played in present-day Kazakhstan. Knowledge of the dombra most likely spread to
Russia by Mongol trade and conquest. After undergoing structural changes, the
Balalaika was embraced by Russians. It is said that the Balalaika embodies the
Russian people's character, with its ability to switch from happiness to
sadness with ease. It was common for the peasant ballads, composed for the
Balalaika, to irreverently poke fun at the authority of the times. For this
reason, there were times when the Balalaika was banned by both the Orthodox
Church and the State. The instrument enjoyed its greatest folk popularity in
the early 18th century.
In the later 19th century the instrument underwent a number of changes,
including the adoption of the classic triangular shape. Reportedly, in the late
19th century, Vassily Vasilievich Andreyev, was responsible for the transition
from a folk instrument to a concert instrument. Andreyev's chamber ensemble
renamed The Great Russian Imperial Balalaika Orchestra, introduced the
instrument to cultures outside of Russia. The Instrument was also carried by
the common people when they fled Russia at times of war.
Accessories Included:
- A Gig Bag.
Item Specifications:
- Item Weight: 1.25 lbs.
- Item Length: 26.5 Inches.
- Item Height: 4 Inches.
- Item Width: 16 Inches.
SPECIAL NOTE ON STRINGS:
There is no warranty on strings. Manufacturers recommend that you change the strings on your instrument as soon as you receive it. Your instrument has completed a long journey before it ever begins the final leg of your home. During this time the elements affect the strings and may shorten their lifespan. It occasionally happens that a string will fail during that final leg of the journey. Therefore, it is recommended that you purchase a replacement set of strings and consider changing your strings soon after it arrives. If you are a student you may want to change your strings every 3-4 months. If you are a rock star you may need to change your strings every week. If you store your instrument, you should consider changing the strings when you pick it up again.
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