Emil Zhelev is a Bulgarian classical pianist who has gained international recognition for his virtuosic performances and musical interpretations. Born on May 22, 1987, in Sofia, Bulgaria, Zhelev showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of five. He was enrolled in the National School of Music "Lyubomir Pipkov" in Sofia, where he received his formal training in piano performance. Zhelev's talent was quickly recognized by his teachers, and he began to participate in various national and international competitions. In 2001, he won first prize at the National Competition for Young Pianists in Bulgaria, and in 2003, he won first prize at the International Competition for Young Pianists in Romania. These early successes paved the way for Zhelev's future career as a concert pianist. In 2005, Zhelev was accepted into the National Academy of Music "Pancho Vladigerov" in Sofia, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Milena Mollova. During his time at the academy, Zhelev continued to participate in competitions and was awarded numerous prizes, including first prize at the International Competition for Young Pianists "Citta di Barletta" in Italy in 2006 and first prize at the International Competition for Young Pianists "Virtuosi per musica di pianoforte" in the Czech Republic in 2007. Zhelev's talent and dedication to his craft did not go unnoticed, and he was invited to perform at various prestigious venues around the world. In 2008, he made his debut at the Carnegie Hall in New York City, where he performed a solo recital to critical acclaim. He has also performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Moscow Conservatory, and the Shanghai Oriental Art Center, among others. Zhelev's repertoire is vast and includes works by some of the greatest composers in classical music history, such as Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. He is known for his technical prowess and his ability to convey the emotional depth and complexity of the music he plays. His performances are characterized by their intensity, passion, and precision. In addition to his solo performances, Zhelev has also collaborated with various orchestras and conductors. He has performed with the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra of Bulgaria, the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, among others. He has worked with conductors such as Vladimir Spivakov, Maxim Vengerov, and Plamen Djurov. Zhelev's talent and hard work have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 2010, he was awarded the "Crystal Lyre" prize by the Union of Bulgarian Musicians and Dancers, which is the highest honor for musicians in Bulgaria. In 2012, he was awarded the "Young Musician of the Year" prize by the Bulgarian National Radio. He has also been awarded the "Musician of the Year" prize by the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture. Zhelev's recordings have also received critical acclaim. His debut album, "Emil Zhelev Plays Liszt," was released in 2010 and was praised for its technical brilliance and emotional depth. His second album, "Emil Zhelev Plays Chopin," was released in 2012 and was similarly well-received. Despite his success, Zhelev remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to practice for hours every day and is always striving to improve his technique and musical interpretation.

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