Elena's Biography

Elena Smirnova is Svetlana's Daughter. She was born in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, began her musical education at the age of five when she learned to play violin at the local School of Music. After graduation in 1990 she was accepted into Music Lyceum at the Krasnoyarsk Institute of Arts where she continued her studies in Musical Theory, Pedagogy and Music History. Elena then went on to receiving her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the M.I. Glinka Novosibirsk State Conservatory where she studied under the tutelage of Professor G.G. Feldgun, a renowned scholar, music book author and art critic. At that time, she also performed at the Music Theatre, Conservatory Chamber Orchestra and offered private lessons.

Soon after moving to Virginia in 1997, Elena continued her teaching carrier as her primary occupation in Northern Virginia, Art schools as well as she started offering private lessons at her residence. She also continued her musical career performing with such orchestras as Fairfax Symphony, Arlington Symphony as well as Falls Church Chamber and National Chamber Orchestras.

Elena is a winner of the Regional Round for the UNESCO International Competition “New Names”. She is also a recipient of Scholarship for the Winners of Krasnoyarsk Festival of Young Musical Talents. Her life-long passion for music Elena complements with studies in dance, yoga and meditation.