Trans-Siberian Orchestra keyboardist Vitalij Kuprij dies, aged 49

nme.com:

A post shared by Lars Eric Mattsson (@lars.eric.mattsson)Kuprij was born in 1974 and gained recognition as a musician predominantly through his work with the symphonic heavy metal band Trans-Siberian Orchestra.He performed with the group as a full-time member between 2009 and 2019, and then rejoined the line-up in 2021 for a seasonal tour.

His latest stint with them came just a matter of months ago, when he hit the stage with them throughout November and December 2023.Alongside his work with Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Kuprij was also part of the neoclassical metal group Artension during the late ‘90s, as well as Ring Of Fire – which was fronted by Mark Boals – and the Vivaldi Metal project.Following news of his passing, Trans-Siberian Orchestra took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a statement. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and bandmate, Vitalij Kuprij.

His flawless and energetic performances consistently captivated audiences, and many of you came to know and love him as much as we did,” they wrote. “Rest in peace, VK.”We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and bandmate, Vitalij Kuprij.

His flawless and energetic performances consistently captivated audiences, and many of you came to know and love him as much as we did.Rest in peace, VK.https://t.co/mJWDnIJyqD pic.twitter.com/0L6phfS2hj— Trans-Siberian Orchestra (@trans_siberian) February 21, 2024Frontiers Music mourns the loss of keyboard-maestro Vitalij Kuprij.His stunning skills were featured in 8 albums with Artension and Ring of Fire, and we are forever grateful for the beautiful music he shared with us..