Graduated from the Bolshoi Moscow Ballet School in 1961,
being the first student in the school's history to receive A+ in the
final exams. Studied under Maria Kozhukhova and Sofia Golovkina, and Marina
Semyonova.
People's Artist of Russia and the USSR.
Had the highest leap among ballerinas of the Bolshoi.
Joined the Bolshoi ballet in 1961, and was their prima ballerina for
over 30 years, until her retirement in 1995.
Member of jury at many international ballet competitions.