In the seventy-six year history of The Tamburitzans, the essence of their internationally-acclaimed world famous folk ensemble has been the rich heritage of Slavic music.

The Duquesne University TAMBURITZANS began in 1937 as a group of twelve young men who played the tamburitza. Intrigued by the culture surrounding this traditional East European stringed instrument (which is similar to a mandolin), Dr. Lester A. Pierce brought his "Slavonic Tamburitza Orchestra" from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he garnered support for the ensemble from the multitude of ethnic communities and fraternal societies residing in the culturally diverse city. Equipped with this affirmation of the desirability, necessity and viability of his ensemble in Pittsburgh, Dr. Pierce negotiated a work scholarship arrangement with Duquesne University, and the Tamburitzans began a spirited tradition heralded as "unique in all the world."

Tamburitzans performers are not professional; they are college students who receive grant consideration for their participation in the ensemble. Each Tamburitzans performer is concurrently a full-time student at Duquesne University, studying in the academic field of his or her choice. Tamburitzans students at Duquesne major in everything from Accounting and International Business to Pharmacy and Nursing. They come from across the country and around the world to be a part of this revered tradition, which continues to thrive thanks to generous contributions to the Tamburitzans Scholarship Endowment Funds.

In 1965, Mr. Buleza was selected from some 1000 applicants to join the ranks of this prestigious group of performers. He was the first classically trained male dancer ever to be added to the ensemble. His style, grace, and stage presence added a polish and new dimension to the already fast paced two hour extravaganza.

As featured male dancer from 1965 through 1970, he traveled with the group during their extensive tour throughout the continental United States, Central and South America, Europe and Russia. Within one touring season alone, some 350 concerts would be given. Mr. Buleza’s classical dance training, started at the age of fifteen in his hometown of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania under the supervision of Miss Barbara Weisberger, founder and director of The Pennsylvania Ballet Company, Philadelphia, PA. Mr. Bulezas’ classical ballet training elevated the folk element of the Slavic culture to a refined and artful experience. Rewarded for performing as a Tamburitzan at Duquesne University, the student-performer receives scholarship aid.

Mr. Buleza is a 1970 Duquesne University graduate, an accomplishment he believes may not have been possible had it not been for the Tamburitzans scholarship he received for his outstanding dance talent and ability. As lead male dancer and featured dance soloist with the Tamburitzans for five years, Andrew set a standard of excellence with his unique interpretations and memorable performances.

Contributions in any amount are also gratefully accepted. Duquesne University Tamburitzans 401 Administration Bldg. Duquesne University 600 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15282-0204 (412)396-5690 Duquesne University Tamburitzans On-line Gift Form Make checks payable to: Duquesne University Memo: Andrew Buleza Scholarship

"Establishing this endowment," he emphasizes, "will provide the necessary funds that will benefit another individual to share the Tamburitzan experience," and to, "help continue the Tamburitzan legacy that has greatly enriched my life and the lives of so many of my fellow Tammies."