The February meeting of the Foothills Music Club was held at the home of Elizabeth and John Gardner. The theme was “From Russia with Love,” and the hosts greeted guests wearing authentic Russian garb. The program consisted of music by Russian composers and included the use of several Russian instruments.

First Anne Morgan and Krysti Hamlin played a piano duet of “Song of India” from the opera “Sadko” by Rimsky-Korsakov. Next, the Gardners on gusli and tenor domra (two traditional Russian stringed instruments) played a barcarolle from “The Seasons.”

Karen Molnar (bassoon) and Carole Bartole (piano) performed “Berceuse” from Stravinsky’s “Firebird” and four arrangements from Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition.” Then pianist Joe Erwin performed “10 Bagatelles” by Alexander Tcherepnin, which he prefaced with an edifying and entertaining pre-performance commentary.

Finally, in colorful costumes, Irene and David McCullough, members of the Balalaika Society of Atlanta, played “Dreams Waltz,” by Andreyev, and “Song about Love,” by Fradkino, from the Russian film “A Simple Story.” Their balalaika and guitar combination inspired the audience to request other well-known movie tunes.

The March meeting of the Foothills Music Club is open to the public and will take place at 3 p.m. on March 10 at the Presbyterian Church on Harmon Field Road in Tryon. This concert will feature the organ.