Seated with her balalaika in her lap, seven-year-old Russian-born Anastasia Tyurina appeared tiny compared to the grand National Academic Orchestra of Russian Folk Instruments surrounding her. Yet, the moment she began to play, it was evident that she was more than capable of holding her own. Performing the Russian folk song Valenki, Anastasia showcased extraordinary speed and precision, effortlessly matching the orchestra’s energy. The song’s upbeat tempo and intricate balalaika work are impressive on their own, but watching someone so young deliver such a flawless and spirited performance was nothing short of astonishing.

Sat with her balalaika in her lap, seven-year-old Russian-born Anastasia Tyurina seemed dwarfed onstage by the National Academic Orchestra of Russian Folk Instruments who surrounded her. However, the second she started to play, it was clear that she was more than a match for the orchestra. When I first heard the Russian folk song ‘Valenki’, I was impressed by its upbeat tempo and speedy balalaika work. Seeing Anastasia perform the song at such a young age had me, quite simply, blown away.

Music Man fans will undoubtedly feel the same when they see this young musician play. Despite being surrounded by the prestigious orchestra, Anastasia is clearly the star of the stage, as her fingers whizz up and down the neck of her balalaika at breakneck speed. Many viewers online were also impressed by her stage presence, commenting “I love the way she’s not just playing it, she’s feeling it” and “love the way she’s enjoying herself” on the video, which has garnered over 11M views.

The young musician’s relationship with the instrument started at an extremely early age, asking her parents for a balalaika when she was only two years old. She began training in the instrument at age four and, in only three short years, was leaving people gobsmacked with her talent. Since then, she has performed all over Russia, collaborating with a number of highly regarded orchestras and musical groups, and has gained respect worldwide for her skill and passion for traditional folk music.

Now age 14, Anastasia has continued to practice and has improved even further, building on the already impressive skill set she had crafted seven years ago. Watching her perform Bazzini’s ‘Dance of the Goblins’, it is clear that not only is Anastasia developing an astounding musicianship, but also a talent as an entertaining performer. Again letting her joy for her craft shine through, she gave an energetic performance that will make all our Music Man readers want to get up and dance.

All those who love music know what an impact it can have on our lives. Anastasia’s talent just proves what can happen when that love and enthusiasm for music are nurtured from an early age. By sharing her joy and passion for music with others across the world, Anastasia has not only brought joy to others but is also helping to preserve a genre of music that, thanks to young enthusiasts like Anastasia, will continue to be passed down through the generations.

Anastasia Tyurina’s exceptional talent with the balalaika is a testament to her dedication and passion for Russian folk music. Her impressive performances continue to captivate audiences globally, proving age is no barrier to mastery. The future is undoubtedly bright for this young virtuoso. To explore more about Anastasia’s musical journey and discover her remarkable performances, check out the links below.