Classical Pianists of the Future

Alvin H. Williams III grew up in a musically inclined family and began piano lessons at the age of six. Despite pursuing a career at IBM, where he worked for over 30 years, and later in real estate, Williams maintained his connection to music throughout his life. His passion for supporting young pianists led him to co-direct the Thousand Islands International Piano Competition for Young People before co-founding Classical Pianists of the Future. His dedication and vision were instrumental in the success of the program.

Lance G. Hill is a distinguished piano technician and tuner, widely regarded as the area’s leading expert in his field. His expertise ensured that performers in the program had access to impeccably maintained instruments, enhancing the quality of their performances. Hill’s long-standing commitment to supporting musical talent was evident in his work with the Thousand Islands International Piano Competition and later as a co-founder of Classical Pianists of the Future.

Erika made her debut in the Classical Pianists of the Future concert series in 2009, returning in 2010 with internationally broadcast performances. Recognized for her sensitive interpretations and vibrant artistry, Erika has won awards including the Empire State Piano Competition and the Crane School of Music Concerto Competition. She has performed with ensembles such as the Mana Trio, Northern Symphonic Winds, and Hot Springs Symphony Orchestra. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, she continues to inspire through her performances and teaching.

Alexei joined Classical Pianists of the Future as a high school student, already showing exceptional musical understanding. At age 12, he gave his first solo recital, featuring works by Bartok, Beethoven, Chopin, and Satie. Shortly after, he co-authored Read-ing Satie, a multi-media stage production celebrating Erik Satie’s music. Accepted into Dr. Charis Dimaras’s piano studio at Ithaca College, Alexei excelled in recital cycles and competitions, earning First Prize in the 2014 Nazareth College Piano Solo Competition and the 2015 Ithaca College Piano Concerto Competition. Based in Ithaca, NY, Alexei is passionate about inspiring his generation to appreciate the depth of classical music.

Anastasia first performed with Classical Pianists of the Future at age seven and became a regular presence due to popular demand. A prodigy, she has won numerous international competitions, including the Vladimir Horowitz International Young Pianists Competition, where she also received a special award for Best Artistic Performance. By 17, she had performed with the Toronto Symphony and the Granada Symphony Orchestra, appearing in over 30 orchestral concerts worldwide. Anastasia continues to captivate audiences with her technical brilliance and artistry.

Michael joined Classical Pianists of the Future at 14, already recognized for his prodigious talent. A winner of numerous competitions, including the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Concerto Competition and the LISMA Foundation International Music Competition, he has performed at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kimmel Center. Now a student at the Curtis Institute of Music, Michael remains a highly sought-after soloist and collaborator on the global stage.

Stephen joined Classical Pianists of the Future as a young prodigy from Syracuse, New York. At just 12, he debuted with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, performing Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A Minor. The following year, he returned to perform Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Major. A winner of multiple competitions, including the 2004 International Chopin Competition of the Thousand Islands and the 2005 Geneseo Young Artists Piano Concerto Competition, Stephen also performed at Carnegie Hall and the Moscow Conservatory.

Drew made his debut with Classical Pianists of the Future at 22. He has performed at festivals such as Verbier and Tanglewood and won top prizes in the Leeds and Hilton Head International Piano Competitions. Drew has collaborated with orchestras like the Westchester Philharmonic and the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Juilliard as a Kovner Fellow while continuing his international performance career.

Chloe Zhang performed with Classical Pianists of the Future while completing her studies at the Eastman School of Music under Natalya Antonova. A multiple first-prize winner, she has triumphed in competitions such as the Haiziman Asia Piano Competition and the Chautauqua Piano Competition. Chloe’s artistry has been celebrated across Asia and North America, solidifying her reputation as an emerging star.

Gleb brought his dynamic performances to Classical Pianists of the Future as an acclaimed “young super-virtuoso.” Winner of the Young Concert Artists International Auditions, Gleb has performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center and with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. A protégé of Mstislav Rostropovich, he continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide with his exceptional artistry.

Victoria joined Classical Pianists of the Future after gaining early acclaim as a child prodigy. She made her orchestral debut at six and has since performed globally, from Europe to Southeast Asia. Victoria has won prestigious prizes, including the Tureck International Bach Competition and Midland-Odessa Symphony National Young Artists Competition. A composer as well, she continues to shape her multifaceted career while studying at the Colburn Music Academy.

Olga performed with Classical Pianists of the Future while pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts at the Eastman School of Music. A winner of competitions such as the Southeastern Piano Festival and Stravinsky Competition, Olga has performed with the South Carolina Philharmonic and at festivals like Pianofest in the Hamptons. She is now an active performer and educator, inspiring the next generation of pianists.

Gretchen appeared with Classical Pianists of the Future during her master’s studies at Temple University. Known for her technical virtuosity and emotional depth, she has performed at venues including Carnegie Hall and WCNY. Gretchen has won numerous awards, including the Greatbatch School of Music’s Presidential Scholarship, and continues to inspire with her compelling performances.

Dai Yi first appeared with Classical Pianists of the Future during her studies at the Crane School of Music. A winner of the NYSMTA Empire State Competition and Crane Concerto Competition, she has performed at prestigious venues like Shanghai Symphony Hall. Dai Yi is now pursuing graduate studies at the Peabody Conservatory while continuing to refine her exceptional artistry.

Alessandra joined Classical Pianists of the Future after building a distinguished career marked by performances at Carnegie Hall and Steinway Hall. A winner of numerous international competitions, she combines her passion for performance with a dedication to teaching, managing piano studios in New Jersey and mentoring prize-winning students.

Kariné brought her extraordinary talent to Classical Pianists of the Future. A winner of the Los Angeles Liszt Competition and other prestigious awards, she has performed with orchestras such as the New West Symphony and at renowned venues including Carnegie Hall. She holds a doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music and continues to excel as a performer and scholar.

Anna debuted with Classical Pianists of the Future while pursuing her doctorate at the Eastman School of Music. A winner of the 1000 Islands International Piano Competition and the Moulin d’Ande Concerto Competition, she has performed globally, from Moscow to the U.S. Known for her nuanced interpretations, Anna continues to captivate audiences and inspire future musicians.