The Lee University Presidential Concert Series will feature acclaimed Russian pianist Ilya Yakushev on Thursday, Oct. 24, at 7:30 p.m. This marks Yakushev’s fourth performance in the series, where he will showcase his extraordinary talent in Squires Recital Hall, located in the Humanities Center on Lee’s campus.  

“We are excited to welcome Ilya Yakushev back to the Presidential Concert Series. The second half of his concert will feature Mussorgsky’s ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ with a visual display of the paintings that were the inspiration for the composition,” said Darlia Conn, director of the series. “Ilya’s remarkable artistry and passion for music create an unforgettable experience for our audience, and we cannot wait to see what he has in store for us this time.”  

Considered “one of the very best young pianists before the public today” by the American Record Guide, Yakushev astounds and mesmerizes audiences with his engaging and passionate performances.   

In past seasons, Yakushev has performed in various prestigious venues worldwide, including Glinka Philharmonic Hall, Victoria Hall, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Davies Symphony Hall, and Sejong Performing Arts Center. His performances with orchestras include collaborations with the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, BBC Concert Orchestra, and the Utah Symphony.  

Yakushev’s 2024-25 season will include return appearances with Cheyenne Symphony, Panama City Symphony, and Glacier Symphony, as well as a performance with the Youngstown Symphony.   

Winner of the 2005 World Piano Competition, Yakushev received his first award at age 12 as a prizewinner of the Young Artists Concerto Competition in his native St. Petersburg. Some of his other awards include the Mayor of St. Petersburg’s Young Talents award, first prize at the Donostia Hiria International Piano Competition, and the Award for Excellence in Performance presented to him by the Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation. Most recently, he became a recipient of the Gawon International Music Society’s Award.   

Yakushev attended the Rimsky-Korsakov College of Music in St. Petersburg, Russia, and subsequently came to New York City to attend Mannes College of Music, where he studied with legendary pianist Vladimir Feltsman.   

Tickets for this performance are $15 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, and children. They are available for purchase on eventbrite.com/, at the Lee University Box Office in the Dixon Center, or by contacting (423) 614-8343, between 3-6 p.m., starting October 17.   

Designated parking will be available for the event.   

For more information on the Presidential Concert Series, visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/music/pcs/ or call the School of Music at (423) 614-8240.