Ilya Efimov Contrabass Balalaika

Ilya Efimov has introduced the Contrabass Balalaika, a new “Russian Folk Series” sample library for Native Instruments Kontakt.

This instrument has a special place in the balalaika family. The largest in size, Contrabass produces the lowest, most powerful dynamics and sound – equivalent to an upright bass. As with all balalaikas, It has three strings, tuned E-A-D. Main Range: E (bass-octave)-A (treble octave). The notation in the bass clef is written an octave higher than its actual sound.

The contrabass balalaika is played with a large leather pick, creating a softer, thicker, clearer sound. The technique for playing the contrabass balalaika has been developed and perfected in recent times; with solo performances attracting wide attention among artists as well as teachers and students.

Contrabass Balalaika features

  • 465 samples, 44,1 Hz 24 bit, stereo.
  • 10 velocity layers for each note Round-Robin.
  • Various articulations.
  • Speed and realistic dynamic tremolo control.
  • Repetition keys.

The library is available to purchase for 29 EUR.

More information: Ilyia Efimov / Contrabass Balalaika