.svg)
Faculty & About
Meet the artists and educators who bring the Academy to life.
A partnership built on artistry
Founded by Igor Pikayzen and Ilinka Manova, Adria Music Academy shares the artistic and pedagogical traditions shaped by their formative summers of study, performance, and mentorship.
Igor Pikayzen
Violin · Artistic Director
Acclaimed violinist Igor Pikayzen carries forward a remarkable musical legacy while forging his own distinctive artistic path. Praised for his "astounding technique and a majestically rich tone," Igor has performed as soloist with major orchestras worldwide.
A Violin Associate Professor of Violin at the University of Denver, internationally sought-after concert soloist, prizewinner of major competitions, Igor combines technical brilliance with profound musicality. His teaching philosophy emphasizes finding one's own voice rather than imitating others.
As Artistic Director, Igor brings his passion for mentorship and his belief that every student has something unique to offer to the world of classical music.
Ilinka Manova
Piano · Artistic Director
Piano Faculty member at Mannes Prep School of Music (The New School), Ilinka Manova is celebrated for her "poetic interpretations" and "crystalline technique." A prizewinner of the Artists International Competition in New York, she is an internationally active recitalist, chamber musician, and collaborative artist.
Ilinka holds degrees from the Manhattan School of Music and has performed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Her chamber music partnerships have been called "revelatory" for their depth of communication.
As Artistic Director, Ilinka brings her commitment to collaborative music-making and her belief that the best learning happens in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
.webp)
Our Story
Adria Music Academy was founded by Igor and Ilinka with the goal of offering young musicians a summer program that shapes not only technique, but artistic identity. Their long-standing chamber music partnership, most recently presented at the Ohrid Summer Festival, forms the artistic and pedagogical core of the Academy.
Operating under the umbrella of the renowned KotorArt Festival, the Academy offers students the rare opportunity to study in one of Europe's most beautiful and historically significant cultural settings. The UNESCO-protected Old Town of Kotor, with its centuries of artistic heritage, provides the perfect backdrop for deep artistic work.
We believe that the best teaching happens when students feel supported, not pressured. Our small cohort size ensures that every participant receives individualized attention and becomes part of a genuine artistic community.
Inside our musical world
2026 Faculty
Additional faculty will be announced as the program approaches.
Igor Pikayzen
Violin
Artistic Director
Ilinka Manova
Piano
Artistic Director
Ezgi Pikayzen
Chamber Music
Guest Faculty
Eugenia Pilyavina
Piano
Guest Faculty
%20(1).png)