Winner's Speech | Dr Ivan Penev | Composition & Piano | UK International Music Competition 2026
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
🎉 Congratulations to Dr Ivan Penev (The Phoenix), pianist and composer from the United Kingdom, on his outstanding success at the UK International Music Competition – 2026 Season 2, held from 30 January to 30 April 2026. He received First Prize in the Original Composition category for his work Spring Bells: After Yoga, as well as Second Prize in the Professional (No age limit) category for his piano performance of Franz Liszt’s Après une Lecture du Dante: Fantasia quasi Sonata.
Following this wonderful achievement, Dr Ivan Penev shared his heartfelt appreciation and reflected on the personal and artistic meaning of this recognition, as well as the creative journey that continues to shape his musical voice:
"Hello everyone. My name is Dr Ivan Penev, also known by my artistic name, The Phoenix. I'm incredibly honored and deeply grateful to receive first prize in the composition category for my piano piece spring bells after yoga in May, and second prize for my professional recording of Liszt Dante Sonata at this year's UK international music competition. To be part of such an exceptional group of outstanding musicians feels truly rewarding and motivating for a performer and scholar specializing in Liszt piano music. I feel truly delighted to receive a recognition for my interpretation of the Dante Sonata, a work renowned for its immense technical and emotional demands and impact."
"Receiving the first prize for my spring bells holds a truly special place in my heart. The composition itself is a music and a symbolic expression of artistic renewal and great incarnation. Stepping out from the shadows and into the mind. For many years my compositions existed only in pencil kept privately at my studio. Spring Bells was the first one that I chose to share openly and publicly with the world. It is exactly this achievement which serves then as a tremendous encouragement and springboard to continue developing and showcasing my creative voice and art. Currently I'm working on a tptic of tone poems, blue door, red moon and waters which along with some other piano works will form the core of what I envision to become my debut album. The same I'm planning to submit for some future edition of this competition. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the panel of judges and to the organizers for creating such a wonderful global platform for aspiring artists like me. My lifelong artistic belief and motto has always been centered on the concept of river. No matter how hidden, uncertain or challenging one's personal journey may sometimes be. I do believe that each one of us has the inner capacity to rise, to transform, to begin again. It is precisely this award that serves as such pivotal turning point in my life. Thank you for welcoming The Phoenix into the light. I'm truly excited for the musical part that lies ahead. Thank you.
The UK International Music Competition is an online global stage open to all majors — from piano, voice, strings, and composition to orchestra, choir, improvisation, and more. It celebrates creativity, artistry, and dedication, offering musicians of every discipline the chance to shine. Winners gain international recognition and encouragement to advance their musical journey. Apply now and share your passion with the world! 🇬🇧 Learn More: www.ukmusiccompetition.com
