Virtually every culture has its own unique way of expressing ideas. The language of music can be thought of as a universal tie between nations. Last Thursday, April 17, I witnessed the unification of American and Russian cultures while enjoying the mesmerizing sounds of violin, viola, cello, piano, accordion, and voice.

This event was arranged to further the knowledge of the Intermediate II Russian Class at Johnson County Community College who had been studying musical instruments. The class was invited to the home of Nikolai and Elena Tambovsky through an association with one of the class members who plays on their instruments.

Nikolai Tambovsky, a legendary craftsman who has been making violins, violas, and cellos for over 30 years, gave all the participants a thoroughly educational introduction to the world of music, focusing on sound production. It was extremely interesting to find out that each piece of wood had its own unique sound characteristics. Nikolai explained that the latest technological advances have greatly enhanced the tone clarity of all the stringed instruments he produces. The audience was also impressed with another aspect of Nikolai's talented work - his ability to replicate such captivating artwork within the bodies of his instruments. He's been designing the shapes of violins, violas, and cellos based on historical and classical background, modern tendencies, and personal preferences.

Then the QSP/Tambovsky String Quartet gave a short, but very moving concert by playing on the instruments that they obtained directly from Nikolai Tambovsky. They played a wide range of musical styles to illustrate the versatility of Nikolai's instruments. The quartet members each admitted that the difference between their old violins, viola, and cello and those that were made to order by Nikolai had catapulted their sound, enabling them to perform with a great deal more clarity and pizzazz.

While gorgeous sounds of music were circulating in the house, the guests were invited to the living room to a nicely arranged banquet that consisted of Russian sweets, pastries and drinks. This break was intended to give people an opportunity to introduce themselves and to exchange their emotions about the unforgettable event.

Followed by the break, Willy Dick and his wife, Natasha, played a few touching pieces of music on violin and piano. Ludmila sang several deeply emotional Russian romances, and Victor showed his masterful playing on both the accordion and piano. It was emotionally moving to see the inner joy of the people so evidently expressed on their faces.

This event was an enjoyable evening that brought a little piece of Russian culture to Kansas City. For a moment I had to remind myself that I was not on the Arbat Street, the cultural heartbeat of Moscow. Based on my observations, I believe that events of this type will create fewer obstacles in cultural understanding. People will become more determined to join a Russian-American alliance, which will allow them the benefit of unlimited cultural exchange.