Russian Rock’n’Roll
Friday, June 3, 2011, 7:30 – 10:00 PM
First Unitarian Universalist Church, 4700 Grover Ave. Austin, TX 78756.
Musical Connections and The Russian Speakers Society of Austin are presenting the concert “Russian Rock n’ Roll” on Friday, June 3 at 7:30 pm at the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 4700 Grover Ave. Austin, TX 78756.
Two dynamic groups will be performing – “Limpopo” band from California and Austin’s own “Flying Balalaika Brothers.” This is family entertainment at its best!!!
Limpopo is a unique blend of tradition, creative talent, culture and originality. Self-described as “crazy Russian folk ‘n’ roll,” they appeal to a wide variety of audiences. Since their arrival to the United States in 1991, they have wowed every crowd, young and old.
Limpopo first received national attention when they won the International Star Search competition and were highlighted on a national TV commercial for Kit Kat candy bars. They have been a featured act at Montreal’s “Just For Laughs” Festival, at children’s festivals, on cruise ships, on college campuses and at numerous other music festivals across North America. Their set up features traditional Russian instruments such as the triangle-shaped three string balalaika, the bayan (Russian button accordion), and the giant bass balalaika.
Their style of music, however, departs from the traditional “folk music” and offers rock, funk and jazzy renditions of old Russian, Latin and American favorites alongside a performance of slapstick humor and dance. Each member of the band has his own style and definitive personality, adding to the comedy, creating the aura and the awe.
Flying Balalaika Brothers made their debut in 1995. Originally comprising of three members who were born in Russia, these virtuoso musicians combined their classical training with folk traditions. Presenting their music to small festivals (Gilroy Festival, Sawdust Festival, Valencia Street Market, Pecan Street Festival, Music Under the Stars, Kerrville Folk Festival), they were soon invited to perform in concert halls around the nation.
Appearing in traditional costumes, Flying Balalaika Brothers introduce the unique rhythms, harmonies, and sounds of Russian and Eastern European folk and classical music using ethnic folk instruments (balalaikas, spoons, accordion), mix it with styles such as bluegrass and jazz using traditional American instruments (banjo, guitar), add a little drums to rock it out, and create an invigorating and innovative fusion of world music that delights and exhilarates audiences of all ages and ethnicities. Based in Austin, and currently comprising of six amazing musicians, Flying Balalaika Brothers have been featured on KUT (Austin) radio, Fox television network, and have been featured artists at numerous international festival celebrations.
Musical Connections is a nonprofit organized to promote greater understanding of music of the world through performances, cultural exchanges, musical history and heritage, and by educating the public about music produced by cultures around the world.
The Russian Speakers’ Society of Austin is a nonprofit created for Austinites and visitors of Austin who come from the former Soviet Union, as well as for anybody who has interest in this area of the world.
This concert is a fundraiser for both 501(c) 3 nonprofit organizations. All donations are appreciated and are fully tax deductible. Money raised at this event goes to continue to bring quality, professional, family oriented music and educational programs to the people of Austin and surrounding communities.
Tickets will be sold at the door and will be on sale at Sasha’s Gourmet Russian Market, 7817 Rockwood Lane, Austin, TX 78757.
For more information, visit www.usamusicalconnections.com
Admission: Adults – $20 Seniors and students – $15 Children age 12 to 17 – $10 Children under 12 – Free
