Sonya Zholobova is a young Ukrainian pianist who already has an impressive list of achievements behind her. Sonya began studying music at the age of four and at seven became the winner of a special prize at her first competition, touching the hearts of the jury members and the audience with her incredible subtlety and bright individuality.
Her musical career rapidly gained momentum, and already at the age of 12, Sonya had many bright victories and impressive awards behind her. Films were made about her, and she was invited to the most iconic projects on a national scale. Her performances had a loud resonance, and even such a legend of the Ukrainian school as Myroslav Skoryk was present at Sonya’s performance, where she played his concerto together with an orchestra under the direction of the People’s Artist of Ukraine, conductor Volodymyr Sheiko.
ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS
At the age of 14, Sonya became a laureate of the very famous Vladimir Horowitz piano competition, where her talent was highly noted by the jury, audience, and media. At seventeen years old, Sonya entered the Tchaikovsky National Music Academy, where her creative maturation began within the walls of the Alma Mater. But February 24, 2022, crossed out all plans.
Thanks to the help of many people, Sonya was evacuated. One of the persons who provided her with incredible help was the outstanding pianist Vadim Gladkov, under whose mentorship she continued her professional development in Madrid.
Sonya very quickly joined the creative life of Spain, Europe, Britain, and Switzerland. During the year 2022, Sonya played about ten concerts in the listed countries. The finale was her appearance in the television project «2022 — Resumen Teleradio» together with the legendary actor Luis Tosar.
In the 2024–2025 season, Sonya became a Pianist in Residence at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, after which she received a letter of recommendation. The year 2025 was also marked by her appearance as a special guest performer at the celebration of ELLE’s 80th anniversary at the Teatro Real.
Parallel to her rigorous academic pursuits, Sonya continues to hone her craft under the guidance of Professor Vadim Gladkov and the legendary pedagogue Galina Eguiazarova. Her musical development is further enriched by regular masterclasses with prominent figures of the modern piano school, including Justas Dvarionas, Milana Chernyavska, and Albert Mamriev.
A significant milestone in her training was her participation in the prestigious masterclasses at the Saline Royale Academy under the tutelage of Professor Cédric Pescia
In October 2025, Sonya delivered a nuanced performance of two cycles by the Armenian composer Komitas at the Zurich Music Festival. Sharing the stage with acclaimed artists Nikoloz Rachveli and Julian Milkis, she captivated the audience with her artistry and depth. Today, Sonya possesses an impressive and sophisticated repertoire, which she is poised to share with the most discerning international audiences.
SELECTED CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
EDUCATION
- Centro Superior de Música Katarina Gurska (Madrid) — piano class of Professor Vadim Gladkov.
- Peter Tchaikovsky National Academy of Music, Kyiv (2021–2025, Bachelor).
- Kyiv Lysenko State Music College (2014-2021)
LANGUAGES
- Ukrainian (native), Russian (native), English (В2), Spanish (C1), French (А1).