Samir Kambarov is originally from Russia where he completed a Bachelor of Music with emphasis in Jazz Performance and Education in Nizhny Novgorod College of Music named for M.A. Balakirev, and Master of Music in Jazz Performance and Education, receiving a diploma with honors, in the Rostov State Rakhmaninov Conservatoire. In addition, Samir graduated with a Master’s in Jazz Performance from the University of Louisville School of Music Jamey Aebersold Jazz Studies Program. 

While studying in Russia, Samir gained considerable experience performing in a variety of settings. He was a member of Kim Nazaretov’s Big Band, one of the best ensembles in the country. Samir has participated in many prestigious jazz festivals such as the All-Russia Festival of Military Big Bands where he received a Diploma of Chief from the Russia Interior Ministry. He also won 3rd prize at the 5th All-Russia Jazz Competition.

Samir Kambarov has experience teaching students of all levels in two different countries. Starting in 2010, he continued training scholars in Louisville and the area. Being a Graduate Teaching Assistant at University of Louisville School of Music gave Samir opportunities to practice and polish his teaching skills. He has had the opportunity to receive private instructions and perform with great American artists such as Antonio Hart, Jeff Hamilton, Eddie Gomez, Lou Donaldson, Eric Alexander, and many others.

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Currently Samir is teaching at the University of Louisville School of Music, playing around the area, and working on a few projects related to jazz studies and jazz improvisation.