Ponomarev became interested in jazz after hearing it on Voice of America, and felt a particular affinity for Clifford Brown.
He dedicated countless hours to transcribing, studying and memorizing legendary jazz trumpet solos.
In time he decided to flee the then Soviet Union and ended up joining Art Blakey's group the Jazz Messengers.
On September 9, 2006, his arm was broken in an altercation with security at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Ponomarev tours with his tribute big band, playing both originals and music from the Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers repertoire.