Nicholas Semyanko - Russian Balalaika Virtuoso

Nicholas Semyanko has played the balalaika since his youth. He has lead his own balalaika ensemble and performed in many groups as a guest artist. Russian Folk, Classical and Gypsy Music are the prime interst of this fine musician.

Nicholas Semyanko not only mastered the art of balalaika, but enjoys performing on a Russian seven string guitar - an instrument made popular in Russia in the nineteenth century. He also leads a Instrumental and Vocal Ensemble "MANZHEROK" which perfoms ballroom dance music for weddings, parties and dances of all occasions.

Nicholas Semyanko's son Andrew is an accomplished trumpet player and a guitarist who is also involved in the musical ensemble. Mr. Semyanko's wife Natalie Semyanko is a concert pianist who accompanies him in concerts.

Nikita Gorsky, "Nick", is the bass of the ensemble. He performs on a huge Bass Balalaika that stands five feet tall. Mourka Meyendorff, is a lead vocalist in the ensemble "Mourka and the Gypsies". Nicholas Semyanko, Andrew Semyanko and Nick Gorsky are all involved in this colorful group of gypsy dancing and singing.