Tamara Volskaya (domra and mandolin soloist) and bayanist Anatoliy Trofimov comprise one of the most remarkable and inspiring musical duos to be found anywhere in the world. Honored Artists of Russia, winners of international and national competitions, professors of Folk Instruments Department at the Mussorgsky Ural State Conservatory, they have toured throughout Russia, Europe, Canada, Australia, Japan, and recorded several CDs.
The family ties of these musicians have a direct influence on the duo’s performances. Their collaboration is that of the soul. The harmony of the duo’s sound mesmerizes audiences by the total musical understanding of the two. Emotion and professionalism are the building blocks of “The Russian Duo’s” success.
The Duo is a subject of a popular book, Tamara Volskaya and Anatoliy Trojimov Perform. Anatoily Trofimov is also a talented arranger of a great number of the duo’s pieces. The wonderful compilation “Reminiscence”, dedicated to Tamara and Anatoliy’s parents, is a great example of the duo’s spiritual collaboration, and of Anatoliy’s thoughtful arrangements.
“The Russian Duo” has gained a prominent place in American musical scene. In 1999 and 2005 the duo was featured on NPR's nationally syndicated program "All Things Considered" and “Performance Today”, and on WMAR-ABC TV. The most recent of “Russian Duo’s” achievements was a performance at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in February 2005.
While in America, Tamara and Anatoliy established the “Russian Carnival” ensemble in New York, which has gained great popularity, not only in the Russian community, but among music lovers of all genres. The ensemble performs regularly in New York area and has released two outstanding recordings. In October 2004 “The Russian Carnival” Ensemble performed at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center as a part of “Russian Splendor” concert.
