Ivan Sztankov is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant impact on the world of music. Born on May 12, 1985, in Sofia, Bulgaria, Sztankov showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. His parents recognized his talent and enrolled him in the National School of Music in Sofia, where he received formal training in piano performance. Sztankov's talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skills. He won his first piano competition at the age of nine and went on to win numerous other competitions throughout his childhood and teenage years. In 2003, he was awarded the Grand Prix at the International Piano Competition in Varna, Bulgaria, which marked a significant milestone in his career. After completing his studies at the National School of Music, Sztankov continued his education at the National Academy of Music in Sofia, where he studied under the guidance of renowned pianist and professor Milena Mollova. During his time at the academy, Sztankov honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of classical music, which would later become the foundation of his career. In 2007, Sztankov was awarded a scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he continued his studies under the guidance of renowned pianist and professor Christopher Elton. During his time in London, Sztankov had the opportunity to perform in some of the city's most prestigious venues, including the Royal Albert Hall and the Wigmore Hall. Sztankov's talent and dedication to his craft soon caught the attention of the international music community, and he began receiving invitations to perform at major music festivals and events around the world. In 2009, he made his debut at the International Chopin Festival in Duszniki-Zdroj, Poland, where he received critical acclaim for his performance of Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 1. Over the years, Sztankov has performed with some of the world's leading orchestras, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra. He has also collaborated with some of the most renowned conductors in the world, including Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sir Simon Rattle, and Valery Gergiev. Sztankov's performances have been praised for their technical brilliance, emotional depth, and musical sensitivity. He has a particular affinity for the works of Chopin, and his interpretations of the composer's music have been described as "exquisite" and "masterful." He is also known for his performances of the works of Beethoven, Mozart, and Rachmaninoff, among others. In addition to his performances, Sztankov is also a dedicated teacher and mentor. He has taught masterclasses at some of the world's leading music schools, including the Royal Academy of Music in London and the Juilliard School in New York. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of musicians and helping them to develop their own unique voices. Throughout his career, Sztankov has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2010, he was awarded the Young Musician of the Year award by the Bulgarian National Radio. In 2012, he was awarded the Order of Stara Planina, one of Bulgaria's highest honors, for his contributions to the arts.

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