Founded in 1888, State Academic Russian Orchestra named after V.V. Andreyev has a glorious history of more than 130 years. Founded by the outstanding Russian musician, composer and cultural public figure Vasily Vasilyevich Andreyev, the Orchestra is the world's first professional folk orchestra composed of folk instruments according to the principles of the Western Symphony orchestra. It is currently the only national music and art group in Russia to be awarded the President Putin Cultural Fund. The first concert was held on March 20th, 1888. The Orchestra's formation is the pride and glory of Russian art and a unique musical artistic phenomenon in the world's music culture.
The original purpose of establishing the Orchestra was to “combine tailcoat with Balalaika”, creating an orchestra based on the principle of symphony orchestra and the delicately adapted interpretation of Russia folk musical instruments, such as Domra, Balalaika and Gusli. These folk musical instruments provide unique style to State Academic Russian Orchestra named after V.V. Andreyev, and inspiring spirit of freedom and perfection in the performers. Now only parts of the antique musical instruments were inherited until now, regarded as the “National treasure”.
In 1986, it was led by Dmitry Khokhlov, who had worked in many orchestras and opera houses. He continued Andreyev's organizational structure and tradition, and he developed his ideas. In 1991, in celebration of the Orchestra's centenary concert, the Orchestra played at the famous Carnegie Hall in New York at their invitation. The Orchestra received unprecedented response. So far, the Orchestra has performed multiple times for Russian leaders. Today, under Mr. Khokhlov's leadership, the Orchestra can play in many style, from popular folk melodies to world classics. Khokhlov introduced the brass band to the Orchestra in an innovative way, which enriched the Orchestra's repertoire and sound, enabling the Orchestra to present masterpieces of world music worldwide's top stage with the unique sound of folk instruments. Influenced by State Academic Russian Orchestra named after V.V. Andreyev, the United States has established more than 30 balalaika orchestras of different scales. Japan has also launched 3 large folk orchestras. Later, the Orchestra signed with the world-famous EMI Record company, where they recorded an album under the name “Andreyev”. The album was trendy and went famous in the classical music market in Europe and the United States. The Orchestra has also worked closely with many world-class singers and many famous Chinese troupes.
Having experienced several times in Russia's history, State Academic Russian Orchestra named after V.V. Andreyev integrated tradition and innovation, preserved historical heritage, and opened up new horizons. They have achieved world music art's highest achievements and have added it with a uniquely Russian style.
