Sorry for the post unrelated to flamenco, but it is important for guitar. I just found out yesterday that Russian classical guitarist Alexei Zimakov, winner of the 1991 GFA competition, had his fingers completely amputated on both hands due to frostbite he received in a -40-something weather in his hometown of Tomsk past December. Only the thumbs remain.
I have heard Alexei in concert twice, and participated in the same competition as him 20-something years ago. He was one of the most incredible guitar virtuosos I have ever heard. Can't imagine what he must be going through. And we thought Gerardo had it bad...
Here is a sample of what his playing was like. There are more videos on YouTube including his winning GFA performance.
Worst nightmare indeed! What a horrible story, my heart goes out to him. I'll thank my lucky stars when I pick my guitar up today. I've actually had nightmares about loosing my fingers while setting steel beams and I'm a total amateur. I can't imagine what he's going through mentally, poor guy...........
Terrible news... that's so sad... I can't even imagine how someone can overcome a misfortune like that... I sincerely hope he still finds some joy in life... if that's even possible in such condition...
He always had a strong spirit. I believe in him. Even if his performing career is over, he can still be of tremendous help as a teacher, ensemble coach, etc. Not to mention his skills as an arranger, although it is more difficult without the ability to play through stuff.
I hear people are arranging to donate money towards his treatment (possible prosthesis?). I will definitely be among those who donate.
Grisha, What a horror! He played for our guitar society right after winning the GFA competition. He certainly was a fabulous player. Let us know how we can support him. Best, Dennis
Thanks, Dennis! Nobody can establish direct communication with him yet. When it is clear how people can help I will let you know if you are interested. I will be monitoring the Russian classical guitar forum for updates and will talk to my Russian guitarist friends. For now all we can do is give him emotional support.
Thank God he has a strong spirit, he will need it. I didn't know him, but after seeing this post I've been listening to some of his recordings on youtube and I'm amazed with his playing. What a great guitarist he was!
Grisha, I have a question. I've heard that some celebrities make an insurance for a body part they depend on. For example, the one I heard was that Tina Turner made an astronomical insurance for her legs. So my question is: do you have an insurance for your hands? Is that common amongst guitarists and other musicians?
I have not insured my hands. I am just opposed to the idea that money can compensate for things of this sort. But many people have advised me to do so over my life. Let's hope I will not need it...
I am just opposed to the idea that money can compensate for things of this sort.
I agree, but it could pay for your living expenses until you figure out what to do with yourself. As you said though, let's hope it's never needed......
Thats horrible... I wish that nobody on earth. I wonder how that happened to him?.... Was he drunk ,.. fell asleep outside?... Car broke down had to run to next town?... how is that possible? Does he do extreme ice sports and failed?
Sad to read such an info. I hope he will get and accept all help he needs. Never thought about what a strong weather can cause. Reading this sad news has brought me for some moments to remain silent.
Thank you all for your emotional support! Alexey needs all he can get. And I especially thank those of you who want to donate to him. I don't have the info yet, but apparently a fund is being set up at Tomsk conservatory to help Alexey. This information is courtesy of a Russian news site, "Echo of Moscow". I also spoke to some people here in the States, and we will try to set up a separate fund to facilitate the donations outside of Russia. Hopefully we can do it through GFA - I really hope so. I will keep you posted.
