Arkady Shilkloper graduated from the Gnessins Academy of Music (1981). He also studied at the Moscow Experimental Studio of musical improvisation (1976–1978). He worked in the orchestra of the Bolshoi Theatre and the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. His first serious jazz experience was a duet with bassist Michael Karetnikov (1984–1986). In 1985–1989, he played in the band "Tri O”. Since 1988, he plays in a duo with pianist Mikhail Alperin (recorded 4 albums) and in 1990 there was a trio of Shilkloper – Alperin – Starostin (Moscow Art Trio) – which is now one of the most world famous Russian jazz bands. Since 1992, he has been performing solo concerts and does a lot recording. He has played in a quartet “Pago Libre” and trio “Mauve”, collaborated with the Vienna Art Orchestra and constantly works with leading domestic and foreign musicians and ensembles, including symphony orchestras. He has toured around the world and gives master classes. One of the few jazz artists playing the Alpine horn (alpenhorne), he is recognized as one of the best improvisers on this instrument.