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Petru Cotarcea

May 7, 2025

Tutor feature – Valeriia Kovtoniuk

Valeriia’s musical journey kicked off at age five with what her parents thought would be just-for-fun piano lessons. That spark led her to graduate with honours from the Kharkiv Conservatoire, defend a dissertation on musical style and complete a PhD. As a soloist she won prizes at international competitions, but her greatest thrill came performing in a piano duo – because doubling the keyboard options means doubling the musical conversation. Today, she’s the official accompanist of the Kharkiv Conservatoire, regularly collaborating with faculty, guest soloists and visiting ensembles, and lending her sensitive touch to everything from string quartets to full choirs.

In her doctoral research, Valeriia argued that music’s true power lies in each performer’s individuality: rather than mimicking someone else’s tone, musicians should cultivate their own voice. This belief shapes her teaching, where she encourages students to explore personal interpretation and forge an emotional connection with every phrase. After a year and a half at MuseCool, Valeriia draws on her experiences as soloist, duo partner and conservatoire accompanist to create a learning environment where curiosity and confidence flourish. Whether at the keyboard or in discussion, she’s dedicated to helping each student discover – and own – their musical identity.

Favourite Baroque composer?
Definitely J.S. Bach. As a kid, I used to think his music was boring and too serious. But now, it feels like pure meditation – like a glimpse into the mysteries of the universe.

If you could duet with any animal, which would you pick?
A loud and expressive street cat – they’re like nature’s opera soloists!

Guilty-pleasure pop song you secretly belt out?
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons. Honestly, I love all their songs and dream of singing this one at a stadium concert with thousands of people – it would be epic! Just thinking about it gives me goosebumps.

Which instrument would you take to a desert island?
Probably a trumpet – even though I can’t really play it. I’d just make the loudest noises possible, hoping passing ships would hear me and come to the rescue!

Morning routine: scales or coffee?
Coffee. And then some more coffee.

Most overrated musical cliché?
“Playing fast means you’re talented.” – Honestly, sometimes it’s way harder to play slowly and with control.

Go-to karaoke song?
Probably “Chornobryvtsi” – it’s one of those timeless Ukrainian songs.

Sheet music or free-form improvisation?
I’d choose sheet music for sure. Improvising at a high level has always been a challenge for me.

Your superpower as a teacher?
Probably my empathy. I really believe that when students feel supported, they’re more open to learning and trying new things.

One piece of advice for budding musicians?
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they’re just part of the learning process. Take them as lessons and keep going.

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