The first Vladimir Krainev Competition for Young Pianists was held in Kharkiv in March 1992 on the initiative of the teachers of the Kharkiv Special Secondary Music Boarding School and its director Valery Altukhov (1941-2021), with the active support of the famous pianist Vladimir Krainev (1944-2011).
Until his untimely death was Vladimir Krainev the artistic director and chairman of the jury of this Competition in Kharkiv.
In over 30 years of existence the Competition attracted many talented children from all Europe and Asian countries, who later demonstrated their excellence winning the most prestigious competitions and making a distinguished international career.
Having joined the EMCY in 1997, the Competition is a long-standing and valued member of the organisation.
The Competition features a number of unique aspects such as orchestral finals for both YOUNG MASTER COMPETITION age groups, transparent voting system, while established relations with prestigious conservatoires, concert agencies and festivals play an active part in creating a solid foundation for the professional future of the competitors.
Unfortunately, due to the ongoing brutal war, it is now temporarily impossible to hold the Competition in his hometown of Kharkiv.
The staff of the Kharkiv Music Lyceum is grateful that, with the assistance of the Swiss association ‘Jugend beflügelt’, the Kantonsschule Uster, and with the support of the European Union of Music Competitions for Youth (EMCY), the 15th edition will take place in Zurich under the temporarily renewed name “Kharkiv Meets Zurich” International Piano Competition – International Vladimir Krainev Competition for Young Pianists, while preserving its tradition. This reflects a bridge between the past and present and emphasizes the connection between two cities and the universal significance of music.
We invite everyone to take part in the Competition – to keep up to date with the latest information, please follow this link: “Kharkiv Meets Zurich” International Piano Competition
