Svetozar Ivanov is a renowned classical pianist and professor of music at the University of Washington. Born in Bulgaria in 1977, Ivanov began playing the piano at the age of five and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. He went on to study at the National School of Music in Sofia, Bulgaria, where he received his first formal training in piano performance. In 1995, Ivanov moved to the United States to continue his studies at the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in piano performance. He then went on to earn a Master of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he studied with renowned pianist Russell Sherman. Throughout his career, Ivanov has performed extensively as a soloist and chamber musician, both in the United States and abroad. He has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras, including the Seattle Symphony, the Bulgarian National Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the New England Conservatory Symphony Orchestra. One of Ivanov's most notable performances was his debut recital at Carnegie Hall in 2007, which was met with critical acclaim. The New York Times praised his "impressive technique and musicality," while the Washington Post called him a "pianist of uncommon sensitivity and intelligence." In addition to his performing career, Ivanov is also a highly respected teacher and mentor. He has served on the faculty of several prestigious music schools, including the New England Conservatory of Music and the University of Southern California. Since 2009, he has been a professor of piano at the University of Washington, where he has helped to train a new generation of pianists. Ivanov has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the First Prize at the 2003 Hilton Head International Piano Competition and the Second Prize at the 2005 Cleveland International Piano Competition. He has also been a recipient of the prestigious Gilmore Young Artist Award, which is given to exceptional young pianists who show great promise in their careers. Despite his many accomplishments, Ivanov remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to perform and teach with passion and enthusiasm, inspiring audiences and students alike with his artistry and dedication to music.

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