Vladimir Tarasov

Tarasov rose to prominence through his role in the Ganelin Trio, also called the Ganelin-Tarasov-Checkasin Trio, an exceptional free jazz ensemble that operated in Soviet-era Russia and Lithuania. Dynamic energy and inventive resourcefulness define his approach to the drums, along with a sharp sensitivity to tonal color. Northern Russia provided his early environment. Drum playing began for him in 1961 after studies in Arkhangelsk and Leningrad, followed by his move to Vilnius, Lithuania, in 1968. A duo with pianist Vyacheslav Ganelin started in 1969 and grew into a trio when saxophonist Vladimir Checkasin entered in 1971. Outside the group, he has produced solo recordings and shared stages with American players such as Andrew Cyrille and the ROVA Saxophone Quartet. He also directs the Lithuanian Art Orchestra. Scores for film and theater number among his compositions, and he has established himself as a skilled visual artist.