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Mikhail Smirnov

Mikhail Victorovich Smirnov was born in Moscow, Russia in 1966. He has been in the business of Russian folk dance and music for more than 25 years. Mikhail (Ru: Михаил Смирнов) is an artistic director and founder of ensemble Barynya based in New York City, author of many articles about traditional Russian dance, music and instruments in English and Russian, owner of Barynya Entertainment - the biggest Russian talent booking agency outside of Russia.

Mikhail Smirnov, photo from TV.com website Mikhail recieved his Master's degree from the Moscow State University of Culture and Arts. As a child, he was a member of the famous "Moscow Boys Chorus" - one of the most prestigious all-male choirs in Russia. Before coming to the United States in 1991, Mikhail was a soloist in a several Russian folk dance and music groups including the Moscow State Center for Russian song, "Russkaya Pesnya", under the direction of Nadezhda Babkina.

While studying in Moscow, Mikhail followed his passion for Russian folk culture by traveling to many different regions of Russia such as Tver, Smolensk, Belgorod, and Don River to collect Russian folklore at its sourse. He was surprised to find out that folk dances, songs, melodies, lyrics, and tunes change from village to village, even if those as close as a couple of miles apart.

In these folklore expeditions, Misha recorded over 100 hours of Russian folk music and dances, performances on folk instruments. Later he has incorporated much of this original material into repertoire of his ensemble "Barynya" - the biggest (and many believe the best) Russian dance and music ensemble outside of Mother Russia.

Mikhail is adept on a variety of Russian folk instruments including balalaika-contrabass, balalaika, and gusli. However, his favorite instrument remains the garmoshka, the small Russian folk button accordion used in Russian folk music and dancing.

"Superstars of Dance", NBC, January 4 - January 26, 2009

Mikhail Smirnov with producer and judges of the show Superstars of Dance, NBC, 2009

In January 2009 Mikhail Smirnov and dancers of ensemble Barynya were featured on national TV, NBC's "SUPERSTARS OF DANCE" - breathtaking international dance competition led by executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller (American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance). This prestigious dance competition hosted by Michael Flatley ("Lord of the Dance") and Susie Castillo, a former Miss USA. Mikhail Smirnov was one of eight judges to decide which country will win. Of course, he can was not able to be judging Team of Russia... The show premiered on NBC network on January 4th and aired through January 26th, 2009.


Watch this video on YouTube.com

"The Star-Ledger", NJ's largest local newspaper, USA

The Star-Ledger, NJ's largest local newspaper, USA ..."The spirit of the Old Country transplanted to the New -- that's the essence of Barynya, the Slavic folk dance ensemble, which made a lively stop Sunday at the Community Theatre in Morristown.

Founded and directed by Mikhail Smirnov, a Russian ethnomusicologist who now lives in Cliffside, the troupe is comprised of immigrants from Russia and its satellites, like the former Soviet republic of Ukraine. Yet in the wake of perestroika, the geographic distribution of Cossack dance staples like the "Kazatsky" has come to include parts of Brooklyn, Canada and New Jersey. Although farther out from the Russian sun, the orbits of these lesser moons are apparently fixed.

Smirnov, who narrates the program when he is not squeezing an accordion-like instrument called the garmoshka, seems comfortable with this irony, and he peppers his monologue with witticisms. His audience's propensity to greet the music with rhythmic clapping..." read full article in NJ's "Star Ledger"

Mikhail Gorbachev's Liberty Medal Award Gala
National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, PA

Mikhail Gorbachev's Liberty Medal Award Gala 2008 Ensemble Barynya performed during diner Gala after the Liberty Medal 2008 was presented to former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev by President George H.W. Bush. Official ceremony took place on Thursday, September 18, 2008 at The National Constitution Center located at 525 Arch St. on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall. Eight Barynya dancers, four musicians and three singers entertained a black-tie dinner for more than 1,000 guests. Audience included President George H. W. Bush, Tom Brokaw, Dikembe Mutumbo and Van Cliburn. Barynya performed both concert music and dance throughout the evening. President's Bush and Gorbachev were thrilled. World known concert pianist Van Cliburn shake hands with the balalaika virtuoso Lev Zabeginsky. MC of the evening, American television journalist Tom Brokaw, used one of our microphones to do the toasts. He was standing next to Barynya musicians on the stage.

Barynya at Mikhail Gorbachev's Liberty Medal Award Gala 2008
view all photos

Great Falls Performing Arts Center, Paterson, New Jersey, April 2009

Cast: Vasily Yankovich (singer, seven-stringed Gypsy guitar), Alexander Menshikov (singer, tambourine), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals), Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Alexandre Tseytlin (violin), Valentina Kvasova (dancer, vocals), Mikhail Nesterenko (dancer, costume characters), Natalia Stolichnaya (dancer).


http://www.youtube.com/R2_xn6KVmeM

International Folk Fair Festival in St. Petersburg, Florida, March 2009

Photos from the International Folk Fair Festival in St. Petersburg, Florida, March 2009
View video and all photos

February 28, 2009. Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York

Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York
view all photos from Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York

Barynya performance at the Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York on February 28, 2009
Watch this video on YouTube
Barynya performance at the Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York on February 28, 2009
Watch this video on YouTube

Morristown, New Jersey, February 22, 2009 - video

Photos from the Petroushka Ball 2009 in New York City

Annual Petroushka Ball 2009 took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. The Barynya Balalaika Orchestra performed from 9pm until 2:30am in the morning. List of performers: Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Lev Zabeginsky (domra), Alexandre Tseytlin (violin), Yan Khmel (bayan), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), singers Alexander Menshikov and Lyudmila Fesenko.

Barynya Balalaika Orchestra at the Petroushka Ball 2009 New York City
Barynya balalaika orchestra at the Petroushka Ball 2009 New York City

Slavic Festival in Eugene, Oregon, February 2009

Mikhail Smirnov, Lev Zabeginsky, Valentina Kvasova, Natalia Ejova, Ksenya Hentisz, Stefan Kuziw, Mikhail Nesterenko, Danila Sherstobitov, and Alexey Maltsev performed three shows during the Fourth Annual Slavic Festival in Eugene, Oregon organized by Slavic Home. On the photo below ensemble Barynya is performing Danila Cooper, the dance of Russian Nobility.

Ensemble Barynya performs the dance of Russian Nobility "Danila Cooper" during Slavic Festival in Eugene, Oregon. February 2009.
more photos on www.myspace.com/barynya

Brooklyn, New York, November 22, 2008


view all 16 photos from this concert

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY TOUR 2008

Mikhail Smirnov
Ensemble Barynya Penn State University Tour 2008 (photos)

MIDWEST TOUR 2008

Barynya midwest tour 2008
Barynya midwest tour 2008 album 01
Barynya midwest tour 2008
Barynya midwest tour 2008 album 02

Russian Federation Embassy Estate USA. August 30, 2008

Barynya at the Russian Federation Embassy Estate USA
click photo to see more images

Russian party in New York City, August 14, 2008.

Russian Party in New York City
view all pictures from the party

New York Russian Radio Station City Radio 540AM
Festival of Russian music, dance and culture, May 2008

Barynya @ Russian Radio concert in New York
click picture above to view more pictures from ensemble Barynya performance in Brooklyn, New York on May 17th, 2008

Windsor Terrace Public Library, Brooklyn, NY, May 2008.

Alexey Maltsev, Valentina Kvasova, Leonid Bruk, Lev Zabeginsky, Mikhail Smirnov
click the photo above to see more photos and videos

Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA April 2008 (VIDEO)

New York City, January 2008.

View all videos from Zhenya Shevchenko and Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya performance in New York City on Saturday, January 26, 2008

Russian folk song "Paranya" (VIDEO)

Valentina Kvasova, Mikhail Smirnov
Ukrainian folk song "Byla Mene Maty"
Mikhail Smirnov
Russian Tongue Twister song "Natalia"
Mikhail Smirnov
Russian folk song Korobushka
Mikhail Smirnov
"Gop So Smykom"

Photos by Dalia Bagdonaite from Zhenya Shevchenko and ensemble Barynya concert and rehearsal on Saturday, January 26, 2008 in New York City

Zhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photosZhenya and Barynya 2008 photos
View all photos from the concert January 26, 2008 by Dalia Bagdonaite

Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens. December 2007
Barynya gig for TV Chanel RUSSIA TODAY, New York City

On December 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31, 2007 from 12PM till 4 PM New York based Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya dancers and musicians were leading a group of Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens (Ded Moroz and Snegurochka) to greet New Yorkers and promote new TV Channel "RUSSIA TODAY".

Barynya Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, New York City, December 2007Barynya Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, New York City, December 2007
view all photos by Dalia Bagdonaite

Barynya in Toronto, Canada, December 2007

Barynya in Toronto, Canada, December 2007
On December 13, 2007 at 8pm Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya performed at the "Guvernment" (Kool Haus Entertainment Complex), 132 Queens Quay East, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3Y5 Canada... view more pictures

Slavic Cultural Festival Sept 29, 2007 McLean, VA

Ensemble Barynya September 29, 2007 McLean, VA
view photos provided by K.P. Vereshchaka

Mikhail Smirnov, Victoria Pichurova, Valentina Kvasova, Olga Chpitalnaia, Natalia Ejova, Mikhail Nesterenko, Stefan Kuziw, and Roman Lewkowicz photos from Slavic Cultural Festival that took place on September 29, 2007 at the McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA. Ensemble Barynya shared the stage with the Kazak Family Trio of Belarus, the Bandura Tells of Ukraine, and local organization, the Washington Balalaikas Society Orchestra.

October 6, 2007. Performance with Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society

Reno, Nevada October 6, 2007 Russian Gypsy singer Alexander Menshikov and Mikhail Smirnov performed as guests artists at the concert with the Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society. Concert took place on October 6, 2007 at the Nightingale Hall at the University of Reno. The Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society is based in Reno, Nevada, and is an affiliate of the BDAA (Balalaika and Domra Association of America)... view pictures

Folklorama 2007 Russian Pavillion Winnipeg Canada

Mikhail Smirnov at Folklorama 2007
View photos and video from Folklorama 2007 Russian Pavilion

Artistic Director of the Barynya ensemble Mikhail Smirnov was invited to play gusli, balalaika, garmoshka and sing Russian tongue twisters at the FOLKLORAMA 2007 (the largest and longest running multicultural festival of its kind in the world) festival held annualy in Winnipeg, Canada.

July 16-28, 2007. Performance series in Ohio communities

BARYNYA SUMMER 2007 OHIO TOUR
view photos from Ensemble Barynya Ohio Summer Tour 2007

Ensemble Barynya was touring the state of OHIO as part of the Ohio Arts Council’s Summer International Music and Performing Arts in Communities Tour (IMPACT). Barynya performed many shows, Russian & Ukrainian dance workshops from July 17 to July 28, 2007. Performance locations included Lakeside, Warren, Marietta, Jackson and Grandview Heights. All performances were free and open to the public.

Barynya in Ohio 2007 tour DVD
Barynya in Ohio 2007 tour DVD

Performers: Mikhail Smirnov - vocal, garmoshka, guitar, Alex Siniavski - balalaika, Gypsy guitar, Andrij Cybyk - dancer, choreographer, Valentina Kvasova - dance captain, dancer, Leonid Bruk - balalaika contrabass, Alexander Menshikov - singer, tambourine, Victoria Pichurova - singer, Natalia Ejova - dancer, Natia Rtveliashvili - dancer, Stefan Kuziw - dancer, Alex Sizov - dancer... view videos, order full lenght DVD of this concert.

July 9-15 , 2007. The Balalaika and Domra Association of America 2007 Decorah, Iowa

The Balalaika and Domra Association of America 2007

Singer Alexander Menshikov and garmoshka player Mikhail Smirnov were invited as guest artists and teachers of Russia Gypsy traditional music to the annual conference of The Balalaika and Domra Association of America. To see pictures from this wonderful Festival of Russian music click the image above.

July 3, 2007. Lions Clubs International 90th Convention in Chicago, IL

Barynya in Chicagi,IL 2007 ENSEMBLE BARYNYA PERFORMANCE AT THE Lions Clubs International 90th Convention in Chicago, IL at the Hilton Hotel for the Russian Evening Event on Sunday, July 3rd, 2007. On the photo from left to right: dancer Natalia Ejova, Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka), Jim Cox (contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), and dancer Andrij Cybyk... view full size picture

May 2007. Russian Nobility Ball-2007 in New York City

Barynya @ Russian Nobility Ball 2007
Ensemble Barynya @ Russian Nobility Ball 2007 photos

The Russian Nobility Association in America annual Spring Russian Nobility Ball took place at the luxurious "Pierre" Hotel on May 11, 2007 in New York City. Musicians and dancers of New York based Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya (full company) provided music for coctail hour and thirty minute music and dance program during the dinner. "Barynya" performed popular Russian Gypsy pieces: "Two Guitars", "Kay One", "Vingerka", "3 lines", Russian favorite balalaika arrangement "The Moon is shining brightly" and Cossack song and dance "Varen'ka"

April 2007. Fairmont Chicago Hotel, Chicago, IL Barynya at Fairmont Chicago Hotel Sunday, April 29, 2007 from 8 to 11pm. “Gorodissky & Partners”, Ltd. reception at Fairmont Chicago Hotel, 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Musicians: M.Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Stefan Kuziw (tambourine), and Richard Armandi (contrabass). This was the first time ensemble Barynya performed with Richard Armandi on contrabass and Stefan Kuziw on tambourine. We have got Richard's number twenty hours before the show from our friend MOJO. Our own favorite contrabass-balalaika player L.Bruk failed this time.

April 2007. Beck Center for the Arts, Lakewood, Ohio

Gop So SmykomGop So Smykom literally "Hop With A Violin Bow", an untranslatable slang nickname of a criminal character, roughly "High-Spirited Hop". In the opening stanza he introduces himself: "Gop So Smykom happens to be me, Listen well, friends. For my trade I've chosen theft. I am hardly ever out of prison, and when I am, the prison misses me. But whatever prison I may be in, not a minute passes without me singing. I stick my hands in my pockets, And walk around, singing out of boredom... read more

Cleveland Jewish News.com, April 2007

Russian music and dance in Ohio
click image above to view videos and read full article from www.ClevelandJewishNews.com

March 2007. George Washington University

Ensemble BarynyaEnsemble BarynyaEnsemble Barynya
Slavic Spring Festival in Washington, D.C. pictures, video

February 2007. Embassy of Russia in Washington, DC

Photos from the inside of Russian Embassy Ensemble "Barynya" provided music and dancing for the MASLENITSA at the Embassy of Russia in Washington, DC. It was a long drive from Brooklyn for every BARYNYA member: dancer Vitaly Verterich, singer Victoria Pichurova, musicians Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), violinist Alexander Tseytlin and Ruslan Khain (c-bass). Login to YAHOO to see bigger photos from the inside of Russian Embassy in Washington.

Ensemble Barynya Penn State University tour 2007

Penn State University Tour 2007   Penn State University Tour 2007   Penn State University Tour 2007   Penn State University Tour 2007   Penn State University Tour 2007   Penn State University Tour 2007  

KatyushaPopular Russian song "Katyusha" performed on Russian garmoshka and Gypsy guitar during ensemble "Barynya" tour at the Penn State University campuses in January 2007. Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka), Alex Siniavski (Gypsy guitar). "Katyusha" is a Russian Soviet wartime song about a girl longing for her beloved, who is away on military service. The music was composed in 1938 by Matvey Blanter, lyrics - Mikhail Isakovski. It was first performed by the celebrated folk singer, Lidiya Rouslanova. "Katyusha" is a tender diminutive from the female name "Ekaterina" (Catherine).

KalinkaPopular Russian folk song and dance "Kalinka" performed on Russian garmoshka, balalaika and Gypsy guitar during ensemble "Barynya" tour at the Penn State University campuses in January 2007. Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka), Alex Siniavski (Gypsy guitar, balalaika), and dancers Andrij Cybyk, and Natalia Ejova

Ensemble Barynya in Eugene, Oregon in 2006 and 2007

Ensemble Barynya in Eugene, Oregon
view all photos

University of Texas-Pan American. November 13, 2006

Barynya Barynya Barynya Barynya
more pictures from University of Texas-Pan American

October 2006, John Michael Kohler Arts Center

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videoclips from performance in Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Ensemble Barynya performed in Wisconsin with dancers Olga Chpitalnaia, Valentina Kvasova, Ganna Makarova, Andrij Cybyk, Vitaly Verterich, and Mikhail Nesterenko; musicians: Ruslan Khain - contrabass, Mikhail Smirnov - garmoshka, singer Alexander Menshikov, and Alex Siniavski - balalaika... view all videos, photos, listen to MP3, buy DVD and CD.

September 2006. Baltimore, Maryland
Russian Gypsy folk song 2 min 20 sec Russian Gypsy folk song and dance "Those were the days" video. Folk singer Alexander Menshikov and Russian music ensemble "Barynya" showcase at the booking conference on September 29, 2006 in Baltimore, Maryland. Mikhail Smirnov-guitar, Vadim Kolpakov-Russian Gypsy 7-string guitar, Ruslan Khain - balalaika contrabass, Alex Siniavski-balalaika, Gypsy guitar

August 2006. Reno, Nevada
gypsy boys Alexander Menshikov and Mikhail Smirnov are performing as "GYPSY BOYS" at the "Starlight Serenade" concert presented by the Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society at the Bartley Ranch Amphitheater, at 7:30 pm on Saturday, September 2nd. The Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society is dedicated to the perpetuation of music written for the balalaika, domra, and related instruments.

July 2006. Akron, Ohio.
BDAA 2006 The annual conference of The Balalaika and Domra Association of America took place in Akron, Ohio. Mikhail Smirnov and singer Alexander Menshikov went there to teach Russian folk singing and Russian folk chorus and also to perform for over 160 attendees of the BDAA conference. view photos

JUNE 2006. WORLD YACHT PRINCESS, NEW YORK CITY
Alex Siniavski, Alexander Menshikov and Mikhail Smirnov Barynya musicians play aboard World Yacht's " Princess" at Pier 81 (West 41st street at the Hudson River) in New York City at the Russian Children's Welfare Society event "Petroushka on the Hudson". Mikhail Smirnov and Maria Vorobieva


MAY 2006. UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION, NEW YORK CITY
ensemble Barynya United Nations Association event in Lighthouse International over on EAST 58th street in New York City. Barynya performes with two dancers, two musicians and singer... read recommendation letter

APRIL 2006
Maslenitsa at the Russian Embassy in Washington, DC.

MARCH 2006
Barynya Balalaika Orchestra Barynya musicians are playing at the New York's landmark The Waldorf's Astoria Hotel at the Benefit Concert "Petroushka Ball" for The Annual Fundraiser of the Russian Children’s Welfare Society... more pictures

FEBRUARY 2006
Tatyana Navka, Mikhail Smirnov, Roman Kostomarov and Alex Siniavski Barynya performance at the World Champions exhibition and skating event in Locust Valley, New York. On the picture ensemble Barynya musicians with the gold medalists of the 2004 World Figure Skating Championships in Ice Dancing Tatiana Navka and Roman Kostomarov. From left to right: Tatiana Navka, Mikhail Smirnov, Roman Kostomarov and Alex Siniavski

Russian folk dance and music ensemble Barynya 2005 Russian Nobility Ball
Russian folk dance and music ensemble Barynya 2005 Russian Nobility Ball



May 2005
Ensemble Barynya was invited to perform at the Annual Russian Nobility Ball. The show took place in Grand Ball Room of "The Pierre Hotel", Fifth Avenue at 61st Street, New York City, USA on Friday, May 13th, 2005. Everybody loved professionalism of Barynya dancers and musicians. There was a piece in the International Russian TV news RTVI about the Ball that you can download below. When Russian Nobility of the United States wants to party "Russian Way", they hire ensemble Barynya to dance and sing for them!

Peasant dance of Ukraine HopakPeasant dance of Ukraine HopakPeasant dance of Ukraine HopakPeasant dance of Ukraine HopakRussian song and dance Sergey Gusarov
videoclips from The Russian Nobility Ball 2005

Discovery Channel series "The Party Planner with David Tutera" Alex Siniavski, David Tutera, Valentina Kvasova and Mikhail Smirnov In February of 2004 ensemble Barynya participated in "Party Planner with David Tutera" on famous Discovery Channel show. It was funny how many people watched that show on TV and complemented us on being a part of it. That is clear now that best in Party Business choose BARYNYA when they are looking for Russian theme entertainment.

BALALAIKA DANCE TRIO VIDEOCLIP: Valentina Kvasova, Alex Siniavski and Mikhail Smirnov
"Party Planner with David Tutera", Discovery Channel
1 minure 30 seconds MPEG videoclip (7,86 MB)

Ensemble Barynya

Barynya Russian dance and music ensemble "Barynya" was founded back in 1991. Sasha Anchutin, Natasha Demidova and myself rehearsed the first few numbers at the Russian restaurant Fyodoroff in Glen Cove, Long Island. We always started concert program with traditional dance "Barynya" which later become the name of our group.

Russian entertainment database

In 1998 I registered and begin to design and promote Russian entertainment database website wich has become the first on-line Russian folk entertainment resouce in the United States. Since 1998 more then 500 venues found and hired Russian folk dancers, musicians, singers and ensembles using this daily updated catalog. Registration is still free! Since 2005 I become a member of many booking conferences for touring artists. There is hope to get even more gigs for performers and groups listed on my website in the United States and all over the world.

Russian America

Being apart from professional performing on the stage with extraordinary musicians and dancers of ensemble Barynya I still go to parties with my friends. Then I take with me my favorite TULSKAYA GARMOSHKA, balalaika or guitar. We will sing and dance chastushki, Moroz-Moroz, Kalina and all our favorite Russian songs.

Russian America
Tall Man Park, New York

Brooklyn Balalaikas Russian folk music trio
Russian folk music and dance ensemble Barynya performance
Russian Heritage Event at Macy's Kings Plaza. Brooklyn, New York
Leonid Bruk, Alex Siniavski, Mikhail Smirnov

In 1994 I have met wonderful musician and balalaika virtuoso Alex Siniavski. As "Russian Balalaika Duo" we performed all over the United States, released two compact disks: Barynya Russian folk songs, Sergey Gusarov and first in the world BALALAIKA TUTORIAL ON DVD.

Misha Smirnov and balalaika 
virtuoso Alyosha Siniavski at Wheaton village concertMisha Smirnov and balalaika virtuoso Alyosha Siniavski at Wheaton village concertMisha Smirnov and balalaika virtuoso Alyosha Siniavski at Wheaton 
village concert
Mikhail Smirnov and balalaika virtuoso Alex Siniavski

In 1992 extremely talented Russian dancer Sasha Anchutin, who was trained and performed with world known Moyseev Dance Company, joined the group as choreographer and dancer. That was the beginning of Russian folk dance and music ensemble Barynya. The first show took place at Russian restaurant "Fyodoroff", Carle Place, Long Island, NY. The show always started with the dance BARYNYA and that also served as a name of our project.

1992, Russian folk music and dance trio Barynya: Natasha Demidova, Sasha Anchutin, Mikhail Smirnov
Russian folk Trio Barynya, 1992

Misha and Natasha from Russia

After a while we started to perform with Natalia Demidova as Russian folk duo Misha and Natasha from Russia. Together we made compact disk "Beyond The Don River Russian Folksongs. That recording was very well recieved by people. It was offered through TOWER RECORDS chain, QVC Television Network and many other venues. We did not make millions, but it was great! People recognize us, we were touring the country with various groups, giving interviews to newspapers and signing autographs.

Misha and Natasha from Russia, City Hall, New York CityRussian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"
Russian folk duo "Misha and Natasha from Russia"

Welcome to America, 1991

On May 7th 1991 I arrived in the United States as a part of the "Moscow State Center Russkaya Pesnya (Russian Song)", director Nadezhda Babkina. Our show consisted of Elena Ivanova, Elena Kuz'mich, Marina Gorokhova, Natalia Demidova, Leonid Gorelov and Dmitriy Sharov and myself. We performed at the Russian restaurant "Fyodoroff" in Carle Place, New York.

1991
Mineola, Long Island, New York, 1991

When my student years in Moscow State Academy of Arts were over I was working as singer/actor and choirmaster of Russian folk theatre MATANYA. It was a lot of fun. We were touring Siberia and rehearsing in Central House of Culture of Rail Road Workers. After ensemble "MATANYA" I was working with well known in Russia "Moscow State Center Russkaya Pesnya (Russian Song)", director Nadezhda Babkina. With this group I was lucky to perform in the best concert halls of Russia and touring in Kongo and USA.

Misha Smirnov as a student at Moscow State Institute of Culture and Art
Mikhail Smirnov as a student at Moscow State Institute of Culture and Art

Russian Folklore Expeditions

As a student of Moscow State University of Culture and Arts I went to many different parts of Russia such as Tver, Smolensk and Belgorod to collect Russian folklore. Songs, melodies, lyrics and tunes change from village to village, even those as close as couple of miles apart. In folklore expeditions I have recorded over 100 hours of Russian folk songs, tunes, and lyrics. Many of those songs are used in the program of ensemble "Barynya".

Before graduation Misha (Mikhail Smirnov) was a soloist/choirmaster at vocal semi-professional group "Moskovia" (Moscow, Russia), director Valery Kuzmich Nesterov. Formal education - Moscow State Academy of Culture and Arts. Master's Degree in Russian folk chorus conducting.

Misha Smirnov, Natasha Demidova, Georgy Krayushkin   Mikhail Smirnov, Natasha Demidova, Vladimir Aban'shin   Irina Vasilievna Shpariychuk
Graduation Day. Natasha Demidova, Georgy Krayushkin, Vladimir Aban'shin, my teacher Irina Vasilievna Shpariychuk

Soviet Army 1984-1986

I was in the Service for two years, from November 1984 to November 1986. It was the most difficult time of my life. I still remeber taste of food and smell of the KAZARMA where soldiers sleep. Among other responsibilities I was director of soldier's ensemble "Impuls" and also playing tuba in Russian Army Military Orchestra.

Pasha, Sasha, Misha Smirnov, Vadim Katashyov, Pavel Kuznetsov   Mikhail Smirnov, Natasha Demidova, Vladimir Aban'shin

Moscow Boys Chorus

Misha Smirnov in front of Moscow school number 122 The Moscow Boys Chorus was my school. It was located in the center of Moscow, next to Pushkin's Square. The Moscow Boys Choir is considered to be one of Russia's most prestigious all-boy a cappella ensembles.

Our teacher and director Ninel Davydovna Kamburg, God bless her soul... has directed The Moscow Boys Choir since 1966. Choir members attend a special school in Moscow, where the boys traditionally begin rigorous training music as early as age 5. Those selected for the touring choir are chosen from all over Russia on the basis of both their talent at singing (choir members are hailed throughout the world for their "angelic" voices) and their discipline. Misha Smirnov in front of Moscow school number 122 "There is a level of honor for these boys to be members of the choir, but there are no life-style advantages. I was thrilled when as a child I was selected to study and perform with this premiere all-male ensemble. In 2001 The moscow Boys Chorus were touring United States and I was lucky to attend their performance in New Jersey. Below you can see two pictures with Ninel Davydovna Kamburg and its current director Mr. Leonid Baklushin

Ninel Davydovna Kamburg   Ninel Davydovna Kamburg, Leonid Baklushin
With Ninel Davydovna Kamburg and Leonid Baklushin, 2001

ARTICLES AND STORIES WRITTEN BY MIKHAIL SMIRNOV


Folklorama 2007 Russian Pavillion Winnipeg, Canada. 2007
Brooklyn Gypsy Cossacks rehearsal. 2007
Article about Russian dance. 2006
Article in L Magazine, 2006
Review of an album by balalaikist Nikita Siniy. 2006
Open Letter to balalaika player Sasha Ressetar. 2006
Ensemble Barynya in Eugene, Oregon. 2006
Balalaika player's Christmas Diary. 2005
How to buy contrabass balalaika. 2004

IN RUSSIAN


"Pепетиция ансамбля Барыня" в журнале "Сова". 2007
Краткая история русского народного танца. 2006
рецензия на альбом "Ничего себе балалайка"
Славянский фестиваль в городе Юджине, штат Орегон, 2006
Рождественский дневник балалаешника. 2005
Покупаем контрабас-балалайку. 2004
"Как бросить курить". 2000
"Как исполнять русские матерные частушки". 1999
Гороскопчик Миши Смирнова "О Вас без прикрас". 1998

New York based Russian Folk Song and Dance Ensemble Barynya DVD cover
DVD cover
  New York based Russian folk dance and music ensemble "Barynya" DVD. Russian folk dances, tunes, songs, virtuoso performances on balalaika, bass-balalaika, gusli and garmoshka.
Runtime: 1 hour
Cover Art: Anna Nagorskaya
Price: $30 US dollars (first class shipping included)
more info/Order

Mikhail Smirnov recordings, albums and MP3 downloads

Russian garmoshka albumGarmoshka Russian traditional music album in February 2007. Recording was made possible by singers-songwriters, Russian bard musicians Yuriy and Viktor Tenman from New York at their recording studio in Staten Island (Villa Nova Studio). Album contains traditional Russian tunes: "Kalinka", "Moscow nights", "Korobushka" and other Russian favorite songs performed on Russian garmoshka. If you ever attend a Russian party where people are singing, you will be able to recognize all the tunes from this album. The very first song that people will do together after a few drinks at the Russian wedding or Birthday party most likely will be "Moroz-Moroz" or "Gorochka"... read more, MP3 samples

ensemble BarynyaEthnic Russian Music Album recorded with ensemble Barynya in December 2006. Total time 45:46. Album released by AS IZ Recording. Philadelphia, PA. 2006. Favorite Russian melodies and songs performed on garmoshka, balalaika, Gypsy and classic guitars and contrabass... more information, MP3 samples

Barynya 2006Russian folk music, song and dance album. Runtime: 64 minutes. Ensemble Barynya live from Wisconsin. Album released by AS IZ Recording. Philadelphia, PA. 2006. Songs: "The Peddlers", "You stood me up", "Angry mother (bila mene maty)", "Tongue Twister". Dances: "Hopak", "Sailor's Dance", "Barynya", "Kalinka". Balalaika solo: "The Moon is shining", "Chardash"... more info, MP3s, order

Russian Christmas MusicRussian Christmas Music Balalaika Album. Balalaika virtuoso Alex Siniavski, Mikhail Smirnov (guitar). Runtime: 51 minutes. Album released by AS IZ Recording. Philadelphia, PA. 2005. 25 Russian folk songs, dances, tunes, favorite Christmas and Holiday selections such as "Carol of Bells", "Deck The Halls", "Father Frost", "Jingle Bells", "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas", "Joy To The World", "Folk Carol from Smolensk", "Snowstorm", "Snegoorochka"... more information, MP3 samples

Sergey GusarovSergey Gusarov" Russian folk songs and balalaika music album recorded with ensemble Barynya. Album released by AS IZ Recording. Philadelphia, PA. 2004. Russian folk music, tunes, songs and dances including title song Sergey Gusarov. Runtime: 65 minutes... more information, MP3 samples

Barynya Russian folk songsBalalaika music album "Barynya Russian folk songs" recorded with balalaika virtuoso Alex Siniavski. Runtime: 35m 09s, Cover Art: Yury Tarler. Album released by AS IZ Recording. Philadelphia, PA. 2003. There are Russian folk tunes, dances and songs including "Evening bells", "Kalinka", "Katyusha", "Moscow Nights" and "Dark Eyes"... MP3 samples, order

Beyond The Don River"Beyond The Don River" Russian folksongs compact disk with singer Natalia Demidova (Smirnov) as Russian folk duo Misha and Natasha from Russia. Album released by RUSA Records, Philadelphia, PA. 1995. . Cover Art Vladimir Nekrasov. There are Russian folk lymericks, Cossacks ballads and marching songs, popular tunes and chastushki with accompaniment of garmoshka, guitar and balalaika... more info/Order

Question:
- What do you get when you play Russian folk music backwards?
Answer:
- Russian Folk Music!

OLD PHOTOS

My grandfather who was killed during WWII Mikhail Egorovich Smirnov, my father Viktor Mikhailovich Smirnov (died in 1998), me in Russian village of Zelentsevo, Valdai, Russia, my mother Nina Vasilievna Smirnova with my sister Svetlana and me in 1972.

My grand father who was killed at WWII My father Viktor Mikhailovich Smirnov (died in 1998) Village of Zelentsevo, Valdai, Russia my mother Nina Vasilievna Smirnova with my sister Svetlana and me in 1972

Singers for hire

Aleksander Menshikov
  Russian Gypsy and popular songs singer Alexander Menshikov from Cliffside Park, New Jersey performs with his New York Russian wedding music band, ensemble Barynya or solo. He studied singing at The Gnesin's Academy in Moscow, Russia.

Yakov Yavno
  Acclaimed Russian Jewish singer and actor from New York Yakov Yavno

Piques Dames
  Piques Dames perform in the New York metropolitan area. Their repertoire includes a variety of Slavic and European Classical and Folk vocal music as well as compositions from operatic and sacred classics.

Yury Mitchenko
  Singer, keyboard player, MC Yury Mitchenko is available in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania

Lyudmila Fesenko
  Russian opera singer Lyudmila Fesenko, New York.

Sergei Pobedinski
  Russian, Gypsy, Jewish, Italian and American singer Sergei Pobedinski from New York City, USA

Irina Zagornova
  Russian folk singer Irina Zagornova from New York, USA

Vasily Yankovich
  Classical Russian Gypsy singer Vasily Yankovich was named the best Tsygansky (Russian Roma Gypsy) singer in the United States. Available in New York, New Jersey and internationally.

Vadim Kolpakov
  Gypsy Roma singer and dancer, 7-string guitar virtuoso Vadim Kolpakov

Svetlana Smirnova Yury Selivanov
  Honored performers of Russia Svetlana Smirnova and Yury Selivanov from Moscow, Russia

Mikhail Smirnov
  Russian folk singer and garmoshka player Mikhail Smirnov from Fort Lee, New Jersey performs authentic Russian folk songs and tongue twisters.

Nina Selivanova
  Russian folk singer Nina Selivanova from Moscow, Russia

Nevelichka
  Nevelichka - kids parties in Moscow, Russia.

Nikolai Massenkoff
  Russian, Ukrainian and Gypsy singer Nikolai Massenkoff from San Francisco, California

Tanya Matveeva
  Russian folk singer Tanya Matveeva from Moscow, Russia

Marina Zhuravlyova
  Russian singer Marina Zhuravleva from Calgary, Canada

Vladimir Loginov
  Russian classical singer (Bass) Vladimir Loginov from New York City. He is a profesional singer of the Bass solo parts in operas. He can also perform Russian, Ukrainian, Gypsy and international repertoire. Vladimir Loginov helds a Master's degree from Moscow State Conservatory named after P. Tchaikovsky (Vocal Department).

Vitali Baganov
  Russian bayan player, singer and actor Vitali Baganov from New York City, New York, USA

Valentina Kvasova
  Russian Cossack singer and dancer Valentina Kvasova from New York, USA

Nina Tritenichenko
  Ukrainian singer, musician from San Fransisco, California Nina Tritenichenko

Natalia Demidova
  Russian folk singer Natalia Demidova from New York

Victoria Pichurova
  Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian and Gypsy folk singer Victoria Pichurova from Brooklyn, New York, USA

Elena Harris
  Russian singer Elena Harris from Grand Forks, Idaho, USA

Svetlana Yankovsky
  Gypsy singer Svetlana Yankovsky from Las Vegas, Nevada

Alexander Prokhorov
  Russian singer, Bass-baritone Alexander Prokhorov from Boston, Massachusetts was born in Russia. Now he lives in Boston, where he is engaged as one of the performing artists with Boston University's Opera Institute. Alexander has been described as a "true deep bass with tones, that immediately astonished with their midnight-dark, chasm depth of richness and powerful timber..."

Boris Kletinich
  Russian singer (bass-barytone) Boris Kletinich from Montreal, Canada was graduated from the University of Theater Art and Film of Moscow (Russia). During his military service, he was soloist of the Air Force Orchestra and Chorus of the Red Army. Boris can sing different musical forms: Russian popular and love songs, rock and love ballad, the jazz, the popular writings of Broadway, the Jewish and Latin America songs, arias of opera.

Zhenya Shevchenko
  Legendary Russian Gypsy singer Zhenya Shevchenko from New York City, USA

Zarina Maliti
  Russian singer Zarina Maliti from Moscow, Russia

Mila Levine
  Mila - Russian Gypsy singer-songwriter from NYC

view full list of performers listed on Barynya Entertainment website

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT
Special events rental space Soho, Manhattan, NYC, Spring Street, New York, NY
Spring Street, Soho, NYC

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Can Can dancers NYC
Can Can dancers New York
Vegas, Cabaret New York

www.bottledance.com
Bottle Dancers USA
Bottle Dancers USA Jewish Hebrew New York

www.thebellydancer.mobi
Belly dancers, Middle Eastern Dancers, Snake Dancers
Middle Eastern Dancers, Bellydance, Snake Dance

WWW.5GRAND.US
5grand.us
Russian European American Music Wedding and Party Band NY NJ CT

Circus performer New York
Circus performers from New York Fiodor Tulbur
martial arts, fire breathing, yoga, juggling, stilt walking, unicycling, workshops, kid's entertainment

WWW.COSSACK.US
Ukrainian Cossack dancers New York USA
Ukrainian Cossack dancers from New York

WWW.BARYNYA.COM
Barynya
Barynya
is the best Russian dance and music ensemble outside of Russia (New York, USA). Russian, Gypsy, Cossack, Ukrasinian dances, songs and music with live accompaniment of balalaika, domra, garmoshka, Gypsy guitar, bayan and contrabass balalaika

WWW.GYPSYSWING.US
Tsygane Russian Gypsy Roma
Tsygane - Gypsy Roma dance and music show

Barynya entertainment Booking Agency

Zhenia & Barynya 2008
Russian Gypsy dance, songs and music DVD

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COSTUME CHARACTERS
Costumed characters for party entertainment in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut
Gypsy fortune teller, Russian Bear Violinist virtuoso, Nanaisky Wrestling Kids, Dancing Worm available in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, nationwide

WWW.RUSSIANDJ.MOBI
Russian DJ for hire in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, California, Nevada, Vermont, Massachusetts
Russian DJs and MCs for hire in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, California, Nevada, Vermont, Massachusetts

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