The Balalaika (also balalaica) is an instrument with uncertain origins. It belongs to the family of plucked string instruments and somewhat resembles the mandolin in terms of characteristics.

History and Origin of the Balalaika

From a historical perspective, we have no exact information regarding the origin and invention of this musical instrument. The first references date back to the late 1600s AD. It is not a particularly positive mention, as the balalaika in question seemed to resemble a domra, an instrument that was strictly prohibited at the time. The reason for this prohibition was the association of mocking rhymes with the accompaniment of this particular instrument (the domra) and similar instruments.

According to other versions, the balalaika first appeared among the Turkish people. In terms of terminology, the suffix “Bala” has been translated as “child”. According to these sources, it was used to accompany lullabies for infants. Others suggest that the balalaika originated as a popular Russian folk instrument and its name derives from the similarity to the term “joke.”

From this last version, it seems that it originated in Russian and current Asian territories and was popularized by the common people.

In the early period of its spread, the balalaika was known as “balabaika” and had a slightly different shape from what we know today. The first models were actually made from buckets and had a rounded appearance.

About three hundred years ago, the balalaika with its traditional triangular shape made its debut. Initially, it had only 5 or 7 frets. Since the 1700s, it gained more popularity and became a famous instrument in aristocratic courts and their concerts.

In the next century, its popularity began to wane. The instrument started to acquire a poor reputation, with its sound considered unpleasant.

Recently, however, its reputation has turned positive. In fact, more and more musical groups are being formed, music schools dedicated to it are opening, and the balalaika is now part of orchestras.

The Five Different Types of Balalaika

We can distinguish 5 different types of balalaika based on specific characteristics such as the size of the resonator and tuning.

This also leads to the diversification of musical ranges, which are as follows: soprano, very high-pitched, and double bass, characterized by a particularly deep sound.

Thus, we can divide this Russian folk instrument into:

• first balalaika, tuned as follows: E-E-A;

• second balalaika tuned to A-A-D;

• alto, with the same tuning as the first balalaika but one octave lower;

• bass, tuned to E-A-D;

• double bass, with the same tuning as the previous one but in one octave lower.

Finally, a particular feature of the balalaika is that two of the strings are tuned in unison, and the other in a fourth above.

Main Characteristics of the Balalaika

The balalaika is a very well-known Russian musical instrument that belongs to the category of plucked string instruments.

Similar instruments include the domra, the ukulele, and the guitar. The body of this instrument is triangular and is called the apron. It gets its name because it closely resembles the traditional clothing of women in Russian folk culture.

The material it is made of is spruce wood, primarily red spruce. The longest part is called the bar, while the strings and markings are found on the fretboard. The terminal part of the instrument is the headstock, which is made up of three pegs used to tension the strings.

As for the sounds of the balalaika, they are very cheerful. The main sound is considered the tremolo. In Russia, it is easy to purchase this instrument.

The weight can range from 2 to 5 kilograms. The bass balalaika weighs between 10 and 30 kilograms. As for the first balalaika, it has a range of two octaves and five semitones. The bass balalaika, on the other hand, has a shorter range.

Over the years, various types of balalaika have been introduced to meet different needs of our time. For example, the classic model was specifically designed for teaching in music schools and is also used during concerts.

The traditional balalaika, on the other hand, is considered a versatile instrument. The strings are usually made of metal. This model is ideal for solo performances and for those starting to learn the instrument. By the end of the 1800s, the traditional balalaika was mass-produced and typically had six strings. Today, this type is only produced in special series.

The electroacoustic model has a sound identical to acoustic models and is produced by connecting to an electric amplifier.

The final sound can only be modified by applying effects. One of the advantages of this type of balalaika is the possibility of obtaining different sound variations and, moreover, it is a more aesthetically appreciated model.

How to Choose a Balalaika

As with all types of musical instruments, it is recommended to buy a balalaika from a physical store rather than online, so you can carefully assess its quality and sound. The first secret to understanding its characteristics is to tap the bridge of the instrument. If the sound produced is uniform, it means it is a good model.

Naturally, there are other factors to consider. One of these is the appearance of the instrument. It should not have any mechanical damage such as scratches, nicks, or broken parts. The apron should be complete and properly proportioned. The neck must be flat and even. A balalaika should never be warped.

Finally, the pegs of the strings must be firm, and the strings should not have rust.

Before buying a balalaika, it is essential to test the instrument. It is recommended to pick it up and try holding it in the position you would assume while playing. In this case, it is important that the frets are of high quality and that they do not buzz during play.

During the purchase, it is also important to check the quality of the pegs, which should preferably be made of solid, durable metals. Avoid hollow tuners. Quality pegs should appear smooth and polished. Incorrectly polished pegs can damage the strings.

An important part is the cover, which is placed on the bridge. This provides extra protection to prevent mechanical damage. Therefore, when deciding to buy a balalaika, it is crucial to pay attention to this element, assessing its position and quality.

The strings are a key element in the sound quality. They should neither be too thin nor too thick. Thin strings produce a sweet sound, while thicker ones create harsher tones.

Thicker strings are also more prone to breakage because they do not withstand excessive tension. So, it is better to evaluate the quality and type of strings beforehand, as changing them is not a quick and simple task.

Finally, for those who are just starting to study the balalaika, it is worth considering the purchase of a strap. Its cost is not excessive, and it attaches to both ends of the instrument.

How to Store a Balalaika to Avoid Damage to the Instrument

Storing a musical instrument in the right place helps prevent structural damage and degradation of sound quality.

First of all, like all wooden instruments, it is not recommended to leave the balalaika in damp places. This instrument also suffers in cold temperatures. Therefore, it should be stored at an ideal temperature between 15 and 30 degrees. The humidity level should be between 50% and 60%.

For these reasons, it is useful to get a case that covers the balalaika and protects it from damage. Proper maintenance is also important to keep the instrument’s sound pure. It is recommended to change the strings regularly and tune them properly.