Arkadij Shilkloper Musician Date of Birth: 17.10.1956 Country: Russia

1. Early Life and Education
2. Orchestral and Ensemble Career
3. Jazz Exploration
4. International Renown
5. Moscow Art Trio
6. Solo Performances and Albums
7. International Collaborations
8. Alpine Horn Virtuosity

Early Life and Education

From the tender age of six, the musician embarked on a musical journey with the alto horn. In 1967, his path led him to the Moscow Military Music School, where he embraced the French horn. A graduate of the Gnessin State Musical Pedagogical Institute (now the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music), he honed his skills from 1974 onwards.

Orchestral and Ensemble Career

While still a student, the musician joined the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra in 1978, where he was an integral member of the Bolshoi Brass Quintet until 1985. His tenure with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra and the Moscow Horn Quartet spanned from 1985 to 1989.

Jazz Exploration

Concurrently with his studies at the Gnessin Institute, the musician immersed himself in the Moscow Experimental Studio for Musical Improvisation. His first significant jazz experience came as a duo with bassist Mikhail Karetnikov from 1984 to 1986. In 1985, he became a founding member of "Tri O" alongside Sergei Letov and Arkady Kirichenko.

International Renown

A pivotal moment in his career occurred in 1988 when he formed a duo with pianist Mikhail Alperin, who now resides in Norway. Their album "Wave of Sorrow" (1989) was released under the prestigious ECM label. Arkardiy's collaboration with Alperin continued, resulting in the 1997 album "North Story."

Moscow Art Trio

In 1991, the duo evolved into Moscow Art Trio with the addition of ethnomusicologist Sergei Starostin. The trio has gained international recognition as one of Russia's most celebrated new jazz ensembles. Their albums have been released both in Russia and on Jaro Records in Germany.

Solo Performances and Albums

Since 1992, Arkardiy has embarked on a series of solo concerts. His solo repertoire culminated in the release of "Hornology" (1996), showcasing his virtuosic horn playing. Its success led to a reissue in 1998 and a follow-up album, "Pilatus" (2000), which featured a wider range of instruments.

International Collaborations

Beyond his solo endeavors, Arkardiy has participated in the international ensemble Pago Libre since 1995. He regularly collaborates with trio members Sergei Starostin and Vladimir Volkov, as well as with the Volkov Trio, Acoustic Quartet, and the Vienna Art Orchestra.

Alpine Horn Virtuosity

Since 1998, Arkardiy has become a renowned improviser on the rare alpine horn. His exceptional skills have earned him a special "alpenhorn" from the Swiss government in recognition of his contributions to promoting the folkloric instrument worldwide.