Dr. Jelena Vladikovic’s performing and teaching experience spans several decades, two continents, three countries, and four universities. Her students consistently win top awards at regional, national, and international competitions, with many becoming successful musicians. Dr. Vladikovic began her professional concert career as a young teenager by winning the prestigious Yugoslav Piano Competition. She also became the first woman to win the Washington Piano Artist Competition. She regularly plays in solo and chamber recitals, and concerts with orchestra recitals in Europe, Canada, and the US. Her numerous acclaimed teachers include Evgeni Timakin, Pavel Serbyakov, Guido Agosti, François Glorieux, and Robert Silverman. She holds Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in piano performance, a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance and pedagogy, and a designation as a National Certified Teacher of Music for piano.
The National Music Certificate Program (US) recognized Dr. Vladikovic as the Founding Teacher for her “contribution to establishing a national standard for developing musicians in the US.” It has also awarded her a professional designation as a Certified Piano Teaching Specialist for all levels. She served as a member of the Royal Conservatory of Music College of Examiners and adjudicated in both Canada and the US for the program. Dr. Vladikovic is regularly invited to present at local, state, national, and international conferences, including MTNA; ASMTA, World Piano Conference; The American Musicological Society; The Society for Music Theory; and The College Music Society International Conference. Currently on the piano faculty at Grand Canyon University, College of Arts and Media, she also serves as a Subject Matter Expert for piano performance and pedagogy and maintains a small private piano studio. Additionally, she frequently conducts professional development seminars in the US and Canada.