Russian Two-Step

The finest instrumental music from the around the world finds a fresh new voice in 9 String Theory: the unique musical collaboration of Russian domra virtuoso Angelina Galashenkova-Reed and award-winning American classical guitarist John Huston. 9 String Theory performs music of great variety and intense virtuosity, evoking musical traditions both ancient and modern, sharing with audiences the world’s diverse musical culture.

Angelina Galashenkova is among the greatest living virtuosos of the Russian Domra (the ancient 3-string lute of Russian folk and Gypsy music).  Born in St. Petersburg, at the age of eight she began musical studies at the St. Petersburg School of Music and continued her training at the Mussorgsky College of Music and the Russian Academy of Music in Moscow.  Angelina won First Prize in the Russian National Domra Competition in 1990 and First Prize in the International Folk Artists Competition in 1991. She has performed throughout Europe, Australia, Japan, and the United States (including her Carnegie Hall debut in 1991).

John Huston has distinguished himself as one of the most exciting and expressive guitarists of his generation. Guitart International has praised him as "a formidable talent”, the Fort-Worth Star Telegram described his “considerable energy and impressive virtuosity", and La Stampa has called his playing "...mesmerizing." The accolades for Mr. Huston's performance are numerous, including First Prize in the 2001 Aranjuez Strings International Guitar Competition.

Together as 9 String Theory, Angelina and John create acoustic sounds like nothing you have ever heard. A 9 String Theory concert is like a musical trip around the world, featuring Latin American rhythms, Russian Gypsy fire, Spanish flamenco, echoes of Eastern Europe, and songs from America. Concerts by 9 String Theory delight and excite the most diverse audiences, and their combined virtuosity will win over the most discerning music lovers.

“Angelina and John were peerless in their musicianship. The audience was dumbfounded and captivated by the mastery they displayed. I have heard them a couple of times before but never have I heard them or any instrumental duo at such a peak of perfection. Everyone in attendance bore witness to the privilege of being present at such a performance and left swearing never to forget the experience. These are truly a special pair!”

- Gregg Averett, North Georgia House Concert Connection