A Method for Playing the Russian Seven-String Guitar

The Kolpakov Method for Russian Gypsy Guitaris a learning aid to those who decide to master the seven-string guitar following the principles of the centuries-old oral tradition of the Russian Roma (Gypsies). Not nearly as well-known as the flamenco players, the Russian-Romani guitarists played the Russian seven-string guitar tuned DGBdgbd’, for which they developed their own distinct style. The purpose of this book is to familiarize the readers with the specific style of the Kolpakov dynasty, the art that the legendary Alexander (Sasha) Kolpakov passed on to his nephew, the internationally acclaimed virtuoso Vadim Kolpakov. The book starts from the most basic concepts and exercises and then progresses to an inventory of useful passages in most keys. This Method is concluded with three concert-quality compositions from the repertoire of Alexander Kolpakov. The readers can access the audio files for all of the music examples in this volume. In addition, a video tutorial can be acquired from www.vadimkolpakov.com.