Ep 121. Vadim Kolpakov: Romani Culture in Russia & Beyond
Vadim Kolpakov is one of the most prominent and renowned Russian Roma 7-string guitarists in the world. He was a lead musician of the Moscow Roma (Gypsy) Theatre Romen, where he performed as a guitarist, composer, vocalist, dancer and dramatic actor. Vadim graduated from the Roma performing arts school Gilori and studied guitar with his uncle Alexander Kolpakov who served as the musical director of the Romen Gypsy Theatre for over a quarter of a century. At the age of 15, Vadim began work at the Romen Gypsy Theatre, where he worked for 8 years and was the leading guitarist for 7 years. In 2008, as a member of the Kolpakov Trio, Vadim went on the world tour "Sticky & Sweet" with Madonna. They performed in many European and South American countries, as well as in North America and Mexico, including venues such as Wembley stadium in London, Madison Square Garden in NYC and Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
In this episode you will learn about:
The history of the Russian Roma 7-string guitar
Vadim’s approach to the term ‘Gypsy’ vs ‘Romani’
Similar elements of the Romani dance and music across the world
The use of skirt in Russian Romani female dance
Touring with Madonna
Show Notes to this episode:
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