History
Vermicelli Orchestra
Vermicelli Orchestra is an instrumental ensemble founded by composer Sergey Schurakov, featuring a collective of accomplished professional musicians. The core lineup includes Sergey Schurakov on accordion and composition, Natalia Marashova on mandolin, Julia Rytchagova on cello, Timur Bogatyrev on flute, Mikhail Ivanov on bass, Ilya Rozovski on guitar, Pavel Ivanov on drums, and Oleg Shar on percussion.
Musical Style and Influences
The ensemble is known for performing original music characterized by a unique sound and intricate structure. Their style can be described as contemporary, blending elements from rock, classical, and ethnic music. This fusion is often enhanced by extensive use of polyphony and minimalist techniques, creating a distinctive sonic landscape.
Formation and Early Releases
Vermicelli Orchestra was established in 1996, following a two-year period of creative exploration and experimentation. The musicians began performing and recorded their debut studio album, Anabasis, in the same year. The album was released on cassette in St. Petersburg in 1997 and on CD a year later in London. Concurrently, the band worked on material for their second album, Byzantium, which was completed in 1999 and released on CD in March 2000. Both albums have been distributed internationally by Wayside Music in the USA and Boheme International in Europe.
Live Performances and Festivals
Since its inception, Vermicelli Orchestra has maintained an active performance schedule both in Russia and across Europe. They have participated in numerous festivals, including Forte (Riga, Latvia, 1999), Musicmesse Festival (St. Petersburg, Russia, 2001), Blagovest (Helsinki, Finland, 2001), Faces Ethnofestival (Finland, 2001), SKIF-6 (St. Petersburg, Russia, 2002), TRNfest (Ljubljana, Slovenia, 2002), and KULTURSCHIFF (Dusseldorf-Bonn-Mainz, Germany, 2003).
Collaborations and Ensemble Expansion
In December 2001, Sergey Schurakov established a complementary chamber orchestra composed of young musicians from the St. Petersburg Conservatory. This octet, featuring four violins, two violas, and two cellos, has since been integrated into Vermicelli Orchestra's major concerts. The ensemble has also served as a support act for performances by Peter Hammill and Michael Nyman in St. Petersburg. Furthermore, members of Vermicelli Orchestra collaborated with Mark Almond on his album "Heart On Snow."
Media Presence
Vermicelli Orchestra frequently appears on Russian national television channels, delivering live performances on networks such as NTV, TV STO, Daryal TV, and NBN. Their music is also regularly featured on the radio. For instance, the track "Byzantium" was included in the Severnaya Stolitsa hit parade in February 2002. The band's music can also be heard on Radio Classic St. Petersburg.
Concert Venues
The ensemble regularly performs live in St. Petersburg, utilizing venues like The Estrada Theatre and DK Lensoveta for larger concerts, and the JFC Jazz Club for more intimate club performances. In Moscow, their typical venues include The Central House of Artist's Concert Hall, the DOM Center, and the PROEKT OGI club.
Artistic Recognition
Sergey Schurakov's compositions are noted for their intricate yet accessible nature, earning them significant acclaim from both discerning listeners and music critics, as well as the general public. Despite their unique style and the high level of professionalism among its members, Vermicelli Orchestra maintains a connection with a broad audience, making them a welcome presence on both the Russian and international music scenes. This broad appeal and distinctiveness position Vermicelli Orchestra as a notable phenomenon in contemporary music.
The band's official website is located at http://www.vo.org.ru.