Renowned for his artistry and captivating performances, Ivan Yanakov has graced the stages of over 30 countries across Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America. With a repertoire celebrated for its depth and versatility, he has performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall’s Recital Hall in New York, Cadogan Hall in London, Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, Sydney Town Hall, Sapporo Concert Hall, Taiwan National Concert Hall, and Shanghai Oriental Arts Centre. A regular guest at international music festivals, Yanakov has earned critical acclaim for his expressive interpretations and commanding presence.

 

As a recording artist, Yanakov’s albums are available worldwide and have reached audiences on over 120 digital platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, Deezer, and YouTube Music. His recent recording of Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto with London Symphony orchestra is due to be released in late June, 2025.

 

Born in Sofia, Yanakov honed his craft at New York’s Mannes College of Music, where he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. A recipient of the Artists International Debut Series Prize at Carnegie Hall, he furthered his studies as a full-scholarship fellow at the prestigious Accademia Chigiana in Siena, Italy.

 

Yanakov has expanded his career to include conducting. As the founder and leader of the London Chamber Players, he collaborates with some of the finest young professionals. His conducting debut with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra marked the beginning of an exciting chapter in his artistic journey.

 

Yanakov’s media appearances span continents, with highlights including live broadcasts from the Los Angeles Museum of Art, Hong Kong’s RTHK radio, and Pearl TV. His magnetic presence on stage and screen continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

 

In addition to performing, Yanakov is a passionate educator. He frequently gives masterclasses at leading institutions, such as the Birmingham Conservatoire, and serves as a juror for international piano competitions. Most recently, he presided as jury president at the Russian Piano Music Competition in Sanremo, Italy.

 

One of his notable current projects, The Four Pianists, brings together classical and jazz virtuosos in innovative collaborations. Their sold-out concert at London’s Cadogan Hall exemplifies Yanakov’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical performance.

 

Critics consistently praise Yanakov’s artistry:

 

    “Yanakov is a thoughtful aesthete and lyricist who pays attention to euphony and magically captivates the listener with his sophisticated sound direction.”

– Rondo Magazine, Germany

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    “It is this aspect of Rachmaninov, delicate but full of life, that Yanakov highlights.”

– Classica Magazine, France

 

With a unique blend of technical mastery, interpretative insight, and a visionary approach to music-making, Ivan Yanakov continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of classical music.