Vladimir Presnyakov

Vladimir Presnyakov

Famous composer, saxophonist, Honored Artist of Russia, laureate of international festivals and competitions
Date of Birth: 26.03.1946
Country: Russia

Content:
  1. Vladimir Petrovich Presnyakov: A Musical Legacy
  2. Military Service and Jazz Festival Triumph
  3. Military Career and Artistic Fulfillment
  4. Post-Military Career and Stellar Collaborations
  5. Joining "Samotsvety": A New Chapter
  6. Solo Career and Songwriting Success
  7. Other Artistic Endeavors and Recognition

Vladimir Petrovich Presnyakov: A Musical Legacy

Early Life and Musical Influences

Vladimir Petrovich Presnyakov was born on March 26, 1946, in Khodorkov, Ukraine, into a family with a rich musical tradition. His father, Pyotr Mikhailovich Presnyakov, and mother, Maria Semyonovna Presnyakova, nurtured his passion for music from a young age.

Military Service and Jazz Festival Triumph

In 1957, Presnyakov enrolled in the Sverdlovsk Military Music School, specializing in the clarinet. However, his heart belonged to the saxophone, which he studied in secret due to its lack of prominence at the academy. Upon graduating in 1963, Presnyakov joined the Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Sverdlovsk Music College.

After completing his college education, Presnyakov became a laureate of the Moscow International Jazz Festival in 1967 as part of Boris Rachkov's quartet. Rachkov became a lifelong mentor and idol for the budding musician.

Military Career and Artistic Fulfillment

Presnyakov was drafted into the army in 1967. Initially serving in a sports unit, he was later assigned to the Sverdlovsk House of Officers as a musician. During this period, he met his wife, Elena Kobzeva, and welcomed his son, Vladimir, who would later become a renowned singer.

As a soldier, Presnyakov continued to excel in jazz, winning several festival awards. His time leading the House of Officers orchestra provided ample opportunities for him to hone his skills on the saxophone.

Post-Military Career and Stellar Collaborations

After his military service, Presnyakov joined the ensemble of renowned singer Gyulia Chokheli. He also led and performed with several other bands.

In 1973, Presnyakov joined the legendary Moldovan ensemble "Norok." However, the band's fate took a turn in 1975 due to a ban imposed by the Soviet Minister of Culture, Yekaterina Furtseva. Presnyakov faced difficulties finding work after the controversy.

Joining "Samotsvety": A New Chapter

In 1975, Yuri Malikov invited Presnyakov and his family to join the newly formed ensemble "Samotsvety." This bold move defied the prevailing political climate at the time.

During his tenure with "Samotsvety," Presnyakov composed numerous hit songs, including "Summer, Summer, Summer," "The Trainer," and "You Tell Me." He toured extensively with the group, contributing to its enduring popularity.

Solo Career and Songwriting Success

In 1987, Presnyakov began collaborating with his son on solo concerts. He also continued to write songs for countless stars of the Soviet and Russian music scene, including Alla Pugacheva, Lev Leshchenko, and Alexander Gradsky.

Presnyakov released eight solo albums, showcasing his eclectic musical style. He also participated in the recording of hundreds of albums by various artists as a songwriter and saxophonist.

Other Artistic Endeavors and Recognition

Presnyakov is a prolific composer, having written the music for the musical "Street," directed by Sergei Lisovsky. He is also an avid collector of musical recordings and a skilled billiards player.

In 1996, Presnyakov was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Russia. He is a member of numerous clubs, including the Russian Stars Football Club "Starko," the Lovers of Beer Club, and the Volkswagen Club.

Vladimir Petrovich Presnyakov continues to reside and work in Moscow as a beloved musician, composer, and cultural icon.

© BIOGRAPHS