Since 1961 many audiences have been thrilled and uplifted by the unusually beautiful sounds of the Gospel Balalaika Orchestra. Named after the national instrument of Russia, the balalaika, the orchestra also uses the prima domra, alto domra and bass. The purpose of the orchestra is to GLORIFY GOD. With this in mind, it has performed a ministry of music in churches, convention centers and schools. It is also heard on radio broadcasts and is available on the Internet — here, at SMS website.
The founder and conductor of the orchestra is Leonid Jefimowicz, a truly gifted musician. The well-known hymns intertwined with Russian folk melodies are his original arrangements. The orchestra consists of members of two Slavic churches in New Jersey: the Evangelical Baptist Church of Union and the First Russian Baptist Church of South River.
The founder and conductor of the orchestra is Leonid Jefimowicz, a truly gifted musician. The well-known hymns intertwined with Russian folk melodies are his original arrangements. The orchestra consists of members of two Slavic churches in New Jersey: the Evangelical Baptist Church of Union and the First Russian Baptist Church of South River.
