Birth

:

1981

 

Stepan Simonian is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Born on August 15, 1985, in Yerevan, Armenia, Simonian showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of six. His parents recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. Simonian's musical education began at the Tchaikovsky Music School in Yerevan, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Armine Grigoryan. He later continued his studies at the Komitas State Conservatory of Yerevan, where he received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Piano Performance. During his time at the conservatory, Simonian was awarded numerous prizes and scholarships for his outstanding performances. In 2008, Simonian moved to the United States to further his musical education. He enrolled at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music, where he studied under the tutelage of Professor Kevin Fitz-Gerald. Simonian received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano Performance from USC in 2014. Throughout his career, Simonian has performed in numerous prestigious venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. He has also collaborated with many renowned conductors and orchestras, including the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Moscow Symphony Orchestra. One of Simonian's most notable performances was his solo recital at Carnegie Hall in 2015. The concert was highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, with The New York Times describing Simonian's playing as "virtuosic and deeply expressive." Simonian has also been a featured soloist at the International Keyboard Institute and Festival in New York City, where he has performed alongside other world-class pianists. In addition to his performances, Simonian is also a dedicated educator. He has taught piano at the University of Southern California and the Colburn School in Los Angeles. Simonian is also a sought-after masterclass instructor, and has given masterclasses at universities and music schools around the world. Simonian has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2010, he was awarded the prestigious Dorothy Van Waynen Piano Scholarship from the USC Thornton School of Music. He was also a finalist in the 2011 Los Angeles International Liszt Competition, and was awarded the Grand Prize in the 2012 Bradshaw & Buono International Piano Competition. Simonian's recordings have also received critical acclaim. His debut album, "Armenian Piano Music," was released in 2013 and features works by Armenian composers such as Arno Babajanian and Komitas. The album was praised for its "sensitive and nuanced" interpretations of the music. In addition to his solo work, Simonian is also a member of the Simonian/Barbash Duo, which he formed with his wife, violinist Ani Simonian-Barbash. The duo has performed extensively throughout the United States and Europe, and has been praised for their "seamless and expressive" performances. Simonian's dedication to his craft and his passion for music have made him a respected and admired figure in the classical music world. His performances and recordings continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, and his contributions to the field of music are sure to be remembered for years to come.

More....