«My dreams are action»: young pianist Liia Tsvietkova on inspiration, music, and Christmas miracles

At just eleven years old, Liia Tsvietkova already sounds like a powerful voice of a new generation of Ukrainian musicians – those who continue our classical tradition with youthful sincerity and mature thoughtfulness. And although she is likely the youngest interview subject to ever appear on our website, it feels like precisely the right moment to listen more closely to such clear, resonant voices: they embody the future of Ukraine’s classical scene.

Today, when pop culture sets the pace of information, Liia reminds us how essential it is to listen to classical music – especially Ukrainian classical music – and to keep this heritage alive. Her path is made not only of competitions and concert halls: the talented young pianist performs in military hospitals for soldiers, supports charitable initiatives, and shows, vividly and sincerely, that music as an art form can be both light and solace at once.

Despite the seriousness of her artistic calling, Liia carries a special inner warmth – a belief in miracles, in the power of goodness, and in the ability of music and its catharsis to uplift the soul and restore harmony with the universe and with other people. On the eve of the holidays, Liya shares her dreams and reflections with THEINSIDER.AT – thoughts about a future she helps create with such ease and heartfelt sincerity.

Liia, you’re so young, yet an impressive artistic path already stretches before you – competitions, concerts, charitable performances. What does music mean to you now? And how does it change as you change?

As Gogol said: «If even music leaves us, what will become of our world?». For me, music is a way to speak about what matters – without words. It often sounds in a minor key, and that’s understandable: we all live in difficult times. Yet even the sorrowful works of Bach or Mozart always leave a trace of light. For me, minor is also the music of hope.

You perform in military hospitals for veterans. What do you feel in those moments? Do these encounters influence your playing and your repertoire?

To do good is, for me, a conscious choice to remain human. Next to the veterans, I feel deep gratitude, and at the same time, a desire to be of use, to help in the way I can. When I see that my music brings them joy, relief, or inspiration, I understand that I played for a reason. These moments strongly influence my inner world – and the works I choose to perform next.

This year has been very intense for you: victories, new acquaintances, projects. What «new summits», as adult musicians say, would you like to reach next year?

2025 was truly overflowing with events: many travels, international and Ukrainian competitions, new encounters with talented and inspiring people. But my goal remains unchanged – to move forward and to win. I am currently preparing for an important international competition. That is my next «summit», the one I want to climb and overcome.

Which European composers are closest to your heart and why? And which Ukrainian composers should everyone know and listen to?

I adore Chopin – for me, he is the «soul of the piano». His music holds much pain and often deep longing, yet it remains filled with extraordinary light. Mozart is another of my favorites. He seems to speak in simple language, yet each note holds a depth that not everyone – neither his contemporaries nor ours – is able to grasp or convey. His music may seem easy to the listener, but for a pianist it is always a challenge – Mozart is unpredictable and profoundly honest.

Among Ukrainian composers, I want to highlight Yevhen Stankovych. His works are often performed at the National Philharmonic of Ukraine, and the recent premiere of his Requiem left an unforgettable impression on me. In this music, joy and sorrow, light and grief, rebirth and death coexist – and yet the overall tone is unexpectedly life-affirming.

I am also deeply drawn to the work of contemporary composer Ivan Nebesnyy. I especially love his dedication to violinist Bohdana Pivnenko, as well as his music for The Nutcracker. It sounds somewhat unusual, but it is a fresh, powerful modern reimagining – one that absolutely deserves attention. And I am inspired by the music of the talented Ukrainian composer Zoltan Almashi, especially his Seasons – they are profound and vividly expressive.

I also want to mention the titans of Ukrainian musical culture – Vasyl Barvinskyi, Borys Lyatoshynsky, and Borys Kudryk. Their legacy is unique, and we should speak of it far more often. Despite the difficult times in which they composed, their music is filled with inner light. This is the foundation that everyone must know and hear.

Every musician has sources of inspiration – people who support them and give strength to create. Whom would you name as your own inspirers?

Yes, there are people who truly inspire me! For instance, Natalka Stets, the musical director of the Kyiv Philharmonic. She is not only an outstanding conductor – a rarity both here and worldwide – but also an exceptional leader who creates new opportunities for young musicians.

Looking beyond music, I admire Olya Kompaniyets – her civic stance and the beauty she brings into the world.

But my greatest inspiration is the 204th Tactical Aviation Brigade and the Hero of Ukraine, pilot Vadym Voroshylov. Their courage awakens strength – and the desire to create.

In your opinion, who in your generation represents the future of Ukrainian classical music?

The future of Ukrainian music – its very core – will be shaped, in my opinion, by children and teenagers who, despite all the hardships of our time, have remained in Ukraine, continue to study, perform, and, of course, dream. If we speak of specific names, I believe strongly in pianist Andrii Zakhodiakin – he has a uniquely sensitive musical outlook. I also want to highlight the Feduriak brothers, incredibly talented pianists, and violinist Pavlo Uliianchenko.

And – if I may joke a little – I hope there will be a place for me in this future as well! (smiles)

You have spoken very warmly about pianist Andrii Zakhodiakin. What exactly fascinates you about his playing?

Yes, I value Andrii very highly. I am convinced that he is a future world star. When he sits at the instrument, it feels as though he is conversing directly with the composer: he immerses himself completely in the music and leads the listener with him. He never puts his own «self» before the work – and that impresses me most.

What mood accompanies you as the holidays approach? Do you have festive dreams?

My dreams are always actions. If you desire something, you must work toward it. The greatest wish uniting millions of Ukrainians is peace. And I wish everyone true Christmas Miracles! I embrace everyone sincerely – with my music.