He also developed an ensemble playing different sized balalaikas that proved to be very successful. The kapustiki dances are accompanied by flutes and balalaikas. Elderly's repair department services other fretted instruments such as banjos, ukuleles, and balalaikas. Initially it made balalaikas, mandolins, guitars, and domras. The higher-pitched balalaikas are used to play melodies and chords. There have also been "descant" and "tenor" balalaikas, but these are considered obsolete. Balalaikas are often used for Russian folk music and dancing.