Lola Astanova
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lola Astanova (Russian: Лола Астанова, born in Tashkent, former USSR) is a Soviet-born virtuoso pianist, famous for her technique, speed and power, and exceptional interpretations of compositions by Chopin, Liszt and Rachmaninoff.
At the age of six Lola entered the elite V. Uspensky Specialized School of Music for Gifted Children, where she started learning to play piano with Professor Tamara Popovich. She also frequently visited Moscow for lessons with Professor Lev Naumov of the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory.
Ms. Astanova started touring as a concert pianist at the age of eight. She performed in the United States, Germany, France, Austria, Italy and Russia both solo programs and with orchestras. Timeline:
- 1996 - Laureate of the International Chopin Competition for Young Pianists in Moscow.
- 1998 - Featured in the UNESCO documentary "Prodigies of the 20th Century".
- 2003 - Astanova emigrated to the United States, citing problems with the autocratic regime in her native Uzbekistan (former USSR).
- 2004 - US debut at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC.
- 2005 - Received her Master's Degree with Honors (summa cum laude) from Rice University.
According to legendary piano professor Lev Naumov, "Lola Astanova possesses a rare and truly ingenious intuitive ability. Chopin performed by Lola is simply outstanding."
Ms. Astanova is an official Steinway Artist.
