Astraea

Three leading Russian composers (Gubaidulina, Artyomov and Suslin) formed the Astraea ensemble in 1975 to research and perform music for eastern and Transcaucasian folk and traditional instruments (wind, string and percussion).

After performing works by each of the members, the group decided to abandon notation and perform freely improvised and spontaneous pieces.

The three members of Astraea play several instruments including the duduk, salamuri, tar, kiamancha, chonguri, kanon, mandolin, and various types of drums and bells.