In 1991, during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, a group of Vermont musicians, including “Big Joe” Burrell & the Unknown Blues Band, traveled to Yaroslavl, Russia, for the Jazz Over the Volga festival. They faced challenges due to the outdated infrastructure and electrical systems in the city, which complicated their performances. Fortunately, local musician Sergei Ushakov, who was a drummer and sound technician, assisted them, exemplifying a spirit of camaraderie that left a lasting impression on the American musicians.

Ushakov emigrated to Vermont in 1993 and became a prominent figure in the local music scene, especially at the downtown nightclub Nectar’s, where he built a reputation for his meticulous sound engineering. Ushakov passed away unexpectedly on January 8, 2025, at the age of 65. A celebration of his life, “Celebrating Sergei: An Analog Outpouring,” will be held at Nectar’s, allowing the community to share memories of his no-nonsense approach to sound and his generous spirit.

Sergei left an indelible mark on many musicians and friends, despite his brusque exterior; he was deeply passionate about music, which was both his career and a refuge from life in the Soviet regime. His love for music led to his immigration, fueled by his romance with Marina Collins, whom he met during a musical exchange between the U.S. and Russia.

A father of two, Sergei was a complex figure whose deep emotions were often concealed behind a tough facade. He cherished his Russian roots and expressed a desire to return there in his later years. After his death, his daughter Kristina found solace in a letter she wrote to him shortly before he passed, which he had opened, giving her peace in her grieving process.