A Ukrainian pianist and composer who created romantic-era music, known for her expressive and technically demanding compositions. Her music is a testament to her country's rich cultural heritage.
She graduated from the Kyiv Conservatory, where she honed her skills in composition under the guidance of Prof. Ivan Karabyts in 1989. Polyova furthered her education with postgraduate studies at the same institution, completing them in 1995 under Prof. Levko Kolodub.
Throughout her career, Polyova has created a diverse range of compositions, including symphonic, choral, and chamber music. Her early works, such as the ballet "Gagaku," "Transform" for symphony orchestra, "Anthem" for chamber orchestra, and "Epiphany" for chamber ensemble, showcased her affinity for avant-garde and polystylistic styles.
In the late 1990s, Polyova's music took a distinct turn towards sacred minimalism, earning her recognition alongside notable composers such as Arvo Pärt, Pēteris Vasks, John Tavener, and Henryk Górecki. Her works often incorporate texts from divine services, reflecting her deep connection with spirituality.
Polyova's compositions have been performed at prestigious festivals and venues worldwide, including the Beethovenfest in Bonn, Germany; the Lockenhaus Chamber Music Festival in Austria; the Yuri Bashmet Festival in Minsk, Belarus; and the Valery Gergiev Easter Festival in Moscow, Russia.
Her works have also been featured at the Chamber Music Connects the World in Kronberg, Germany; the Dresdner Musikfestspiele; the Philharmonie Berlin; the Kln Philharmonie in Germany; the Theatre de Chatelet in Paris, France; the Rudolfinum-Dvorak Hall in Prague, Czech Republic; and the Auditorio Nacional de Espaa in Madrid, Spain, among others.
In addition to her composing career, Polyova has shared her expertise as a lecturer in the faculty of composition at the Kyiv Conservatory from 1990 to 1998. She later taught at the Music Information Technologies Department of the Kyiv Conservatory from 2000 to 2005. Since 2005, she has worked as a freelance composer.
Polyova has also served as a jury member for the International Composers Competition Sacrarium in Italy in 2014 and 2015, further solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in the music community.
Victoria Polyova's unique blend of sacred minimalism and Ukrainian heritage has contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Her compositions have inspired a new generation of musicians and composers, ensuring her legacy as a pioneer in her field.
Through her music, Polyova continues to bridge cultural divides, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Ukraine.
Born in 1842
A Ukrainian musical mastermind who composed and conducted works that showcased his country's rich cultural heritage, and was a pioneer in promoting Ukrainian music and arts.
88 Years Old
A Ukrainian pianist and composer, known for blending folk melodies with modernist techniques, creating a unique, contemplative sound. His music often features slow, minimalist passages and a focus on atmosphere.
