Larisa Gribaleva: Falling in Love with Minsk at First Sight
Larisa Gribaleva: A Journey of Love and Music
Larisa Gribaleva, a beloved figure known for her iconic projects like “Everything is Fine, Mama!” on Belarusian television and “Morning Mail” on the first Russian channel, has captivated audiences with her charm and talent. Her songs, including “You Will See,” “Sun in Cold Water,” “News,” and “Something,” have become her signature tunes. In an exclusive interview, Larisa shared her fascinating memories and reflections on her life and career.
Childhood Memories and Early Aspirations
Larisa’s mother describes her as a well-behaved and compliant child who enjoyed her meals. However, Larisa recalls herself as an active and adventurous girl, often leading a large group of children in various escapades. Growing up in the micro-district of “Borovukha-3,” she commuted daily to school in the center of Polotsk. Her father’s military career led the family to relocate frequently, but Larisa always found ways to engage in her passions.
Larisa was deeply involved in children’s vocal and dance groups wherever she lived. She was always ready to sing, dance, and host concerts, although she never imagined these activities could become a profession. Her family did not take her artistic pursuits seriously, and she dreamed of becoming a kindergarten teacher. Consequently, she enrolled in a pedagogical university, specializing in elementary education.
Moving to Belarus and Pursuing Music
Living in the Far East, Larisa found her studies incredibly engaging. She created her own teaching materials, bought books on pedagogy, and maintained the best notes in her class. Her passion for music persisted, and she participated in student concerts. However, after her first year, her family had to return to Belarus. Despite her reluctance to leave due to her newfound love, studies, and performances, her mother convinced her to move back to the mainland.
The 1990s were a challenging time, but Larisa remembers them as wonderful years. She struggled with her musical aspirations, unsure if she could turn her passion into a profession. Her cousin advised her to join a vocal group at the Vitebsk Pedagogical Institute, led by Valery Antonovich Domoratsky. This marked the beginning of her musical journey, with rehearsals, concerts, and participation in the legendary KVN team “VGPI-VTILP.”
Rising to Fame
Larisa’s first major competition was “Student Spring,” held in the Vitebsk amphitheater. She performed songs by Tanya Bulanova and Kristina Orbakaite, winning the Grand Prix. Her success continued at the “Molodechno-94” festival, where she became a laureate and caught the attention of Mikhail Yakovlevich Finberg, who offered her a position in his orchestra. This opportunity required her to enroll in the Institute of Culture in Minsk, a city she had fallen in love with during a KVN trip.
Larisa’s career flourished in Minsk, where she balanced her studies and work. Her mother, initially skeptical of her musical pursuits, eventually supported her decisions. Larisa’s television career took off with shows like “Everything is Fine, Mama!” and “Morning Mail.” Despite the challenges, she chose to prioritize her concert activities over her orchestral commitments, marking a significant turning point in her career.
Experiences in Moscow and Beyond
Larisa’s work on “Morning Mail” in Moscow was a unique experience. She traveled to Moscow every two weeks to record four shows in a day. Although she was offered a position at “Europe Plus” radio, she preferred to continue her work in Belarus. She found the work environment in Belarus more fulfilling and personal, while her experiences in Moscow provided invaluable professional growth.
Reflecting on her journey, Larisa expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that shaped her career. Her story is a testament to her passion, dedication, and love for music and performance.
For more insights into Larisa’s life and career, you can visit her Instagram profile.
