The UA Balalaika Orchestra grew out of a small student ensemble organized in the mid-70's. In 1980, domra player Mia Bulgarin Gay picked up the baton and staged the first public concert in the Student Union Cellar. The auditorium was so packed that the fire marshall would not let the show return. 1998 begins our 18th season performing in Tucson. We have performed throughout Arizona, and twice in Mexico. Our members are active in the BDAA (Balalaika & Domra Association of America), which has helped take them to Russia several times for study and performance.

A more extensive history of our orchestra is given here.