Grisha Goryachev, Russia - Flamenco (Chicago Artopia International Guitar Series)
A native of St. Petersburg, Russia, Grisha Goryachev is internationally renowned for his extraordinary sensitivity and dazzling virtuosity in both classical and flamenco guitar. He is one of the very few artists in the world reviving the tradition of solo flamenco guitar performance in concert settings—an art once championed by legends like Ramón Montoya and Sabicas.
Grisha began playing guitar at age six, studying with his father, Dmitry, a master teacher. By nine, he was performing as a child prodigy in major concert halls throughout the former Soviet Union. He regularly appeared on television and radio and was featured in national media. At 13, his live performance in the Revival of St. Petersburg TV marathon was broadcast to over 100 countries.
In 1991, he won second prize at the UNICEF-sponsored Danny Kaye International Children’s Awards in the Netherlands, which led to performances at the UN in New York and for Icelandic royalty. He continued to represent his homeland internationally, including at the Days of St. Petersburg in Jerusalem Festival and the Festival International de Colmar in France.
After a tour of Spain, Grisha was invited to perform for flamenco icon Paco de Lucía, who later supported his U.S. visa application, awarded in 1997 on the basis of "Extraordinary Ability."
Since moving to the United States, Grisha has embraced both flamenco and classical styles, performing a repertoire that includes concertos, chamber works, and over six hours of flamenco solos. As most flamenco scores are unpublished, he has transcribed them entirely by ear—a feat demonstrating remarkable dedication and musicianship. His interpretations blend the fiery passion of flamenco with the tonal control and nuance of classical music.
Grisha has received numerous accolades, including the Best Performance of Spanish Music prize at the VI International Classical Guitar Competition “Julian Arcas” in Spain. He earned his Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees from the New England Conservatory of Music under the guidance of legendary guitarist Eliot Fisk, and was named a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow in 2006.
A dedicated educator, Grisha includes outreach and workshops in his tours to inspire younger generations. His YouTube videos have amassed over 2 million views, and he has released two acclaimed CDs: Alma Flamenca and Homenaje a Sabicas, recorded on Stephan Connor guitars. He currently performs on flamenco guitars crafted by Lester DeVoe, one of the world’s premier luthiers.
Free Admission- Reserve your tickets: Chicago Artopia presents - Grisha Goryachev