Terem Quartet

Terem Quartet

Terem Quartet is a string quartet active since 1999, based in the United States and released on Vitamin Records. It is also known as The Terem Quartet and Terem-Quartet, with the Russian name Терем-Квартет.

Style and repertoire

The group performs a folk and classical repertoire and is known for its fast playing and humorous approach. Its sound is closely associated with Russian folk instruments, and its performances are sometimes compared with cartoon soundtracks in tone and energy.

Membership and instrumentation

The quartet’s members are Amanda Lo and Tom Tally. In its earlier line-up, the group includes Andrey Konstantinov on soprano domra, Mikhail Dziudze on double bass balalaika, Alexei Barchtchev on alto domra, and Andrey Smirnov on bayan accordion. Alexei Barchtchev replaces founder Igor Ponomarenko.

Background

Terem Quartet forms in 1986 in St Petersburg, Russia, and builds a reputation for virtuosity on Russian folk instruments. The ensemble’s work combines folk and classical material, presented with a lively and often playful style.