Concert by the Orchestra of Russian Folk Instruments of St Petersburg University

A People’s Ensemble of Russia, the orchestra was founded at Leningrad University in 1953 and celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2023. The ensemble was established by Mikhail Moiseevich Dorfman, a hereditary musician and graduate of both the Leningrad State Conservatory and the Historical Faculty of Leningrad University. Dorfman led the orchestra for over 30 years.

Since 1983, the orchestra has been under the artistic direction of Alexei Mikhailovich Dolgov, an Honoured Cultural Worker of the Russian Federation and the author of numerous arrangements for Russian folk instruments, specifically created for the ensemble.

The orchestra is renowned and cherished both within the university and far beyond its walls. The ensemble has performed successfully on prestigious stages in Sweden, Norway, Finland, as well as in rural clubs across the Leningrad region. The St Petersburg University Orchestra had the honour of representing Russia at the International Fair in France. The orchestra collaborates with renowned performers and composers, further enriching its repertoire and reputation.

Under the baton of Alexei Dolgov, the orchestra’s performances have captivated audiences across generations, consistently earning praise for the conductor’s mastery, the orchestra’s high performance level, and the originality and vibrancy of the arrangements of the works performed.

The joy of collective creativity is palpable in the orchestra, which continues to uphold the finest traditions of Russian musical culture.