FLAMENCO: Grisha Goryachev (Portland)

Grisha Goryachev: Flamenco Guitar Virtuoso

Hailing from St. Petersburg, Russia, Grisha Goryachev is renowned for his extraordinary talent in both classical and flamenco guitar. Beginning his musical journey at the age of six under the guidance of his father, Grisha quickly emerged as a child prodigy. By nine, he was already performing in prestigious concert halls across the Soviet Union, captivating audiences with his technical brilliance and emotional depth. His early success led to international recognition, including second prize at the Danny Kaye International Children’s Awards and high-profile performances at the United Nations and for the Royalty of Iceland.

Grisha’s passion for flamenco deepened during a transformative tour of Spain, where he was invited to play for flamenco legend Paco de Lucía. Impressed by Grisha’s artistry, de Lucía personally supported his application for an American visa for “Extraordinary Ability,” enabling him to share his unique blend of flamenco and classical guitar with audiences in the United States. Grisha’s dedication to his craft earned him the Best Performance of Spanish Music at the VI International Classical Guitar Competition “Julian Arcás” in Almería, Spain.

Now based in the U.S., Grisha is one of the few guitarists committed to reviving the tradition of solo flamenco guitar, a practice once mastered by legends like Ramón Montoya and Sabicas. His repertoire, which includes more than six hours of flamenco solos transcribed entirely by ear, showcases his ability to blend the precision of classical music with the fiery passion of flamenco. Grisha’s performances are not just concerts; they are a journey through the rich history and vibrant soul of flamenco.

In addition to his concert performances, Grisha is dedicated to educating the next generation of musicians. He regularly conducts outreach workshops and performances in schools, sharing the beauty of classical and flamenco guitar with young audiences. With millions of views on YouTube and critically acclaimed recordings, Grisha continues to captivate listeners worldwide, making his live performances a truly unique and unforgettable experience.