Elena Krakopolskaya is a graduate of the Gnessin Academy of Music in Moscow Russia. Gnessin is world-renowned as one of the best music training institutions in the world, both for Piano Pedagogy and for Performance. Elena started her musical education at the age of six at the Gnessin School for Gifted Children and spent twelve years in training specifically for piano and musical theory in all its aspects. Following that, she was admitted to the Gnessin Academy for a further five years of rigorous instruction in performance under renowned pianist, prizewinner of International Competitions, professor Vladimir Tropp. She earned her Master’s degree as a Concert performer, Soloist of Chamber Ensemble, Accompanist and Teacher.

After graduating with high distinction for her musical excellence, Elena put her training to good use. She performed at recitals in various cities for the Moscow Philharmonic. She was asked to become Musical Director for the legendary Stanislavsky Theatre in Moscow, a position she occupied for 15 years. She taught master classes and trained select private students who went on to study in Moscow’s prestigious schools and colleges.

In Canada, Elena taught in the Toronto GTA in conservatories and later in her own studio in Toronto. Since 1990, she has garnered an impressive record as an outstanding teacher and performer. Her students have unfailingly achieved high honours in RCM examinations, recitals and festivals, and won scholarships, which reflect the thorough training at Prelude Piano Studio.  Elena is quick to point out that technique is only part of what it takes to be successful in piano performance. Music is an art that must be cultivated in the sincere student. Elena transmits her deep love for music and her many happy students and alumni carry that love into their own style and performances. She is a proud member of  ORMTA  -Ontario Registered  Music Teachers’ Association.