Máximo Klyetsun, 19 (Portugal)

Máximo Klyetsun, born on February 18, 2006 to Ukrainian immigrants who settled in Portugal in the early 21st century, is recognized as one of the most promising pianists of his generation. His love for classical music—sparked in childhood by his older sister’s violin performances—has driven him toward international acclaim. He began formal music training at age six with Professor Patricia Ventura and later studied under Professor Maria Hoffman at Conservatório Bomfim, graduating in 2024 with the highest academic and civic honors. He continued his studies at the prestigious École Normale de Musique de Paris Alfred Cortot, earning an Artist Diploma at age 19 with the distinguished grade of Très Bien avec Félicitations du Jury under Professor Marian Rybicki. He is currently in his first year at Minho University with Professor Ângelo Martingo and continues refining his craft through private lessons with Professor Marian Pivcka, a former student of Vera Gornostaeva at the Moscow Conservatory.

Máximo has enchanted audiences in major cities including Bern, Paris, Lisbon, Madrid, Rome, Porto, Braga, Guimarães, Nice, Ibiza, São João de Madeira, Tarnów, and Sardoal. His performances at renowned events—such as the XXXIII International Spanish Music Festival in León, the XXXVI International Ibiza Music Festival, the Summer Classical Festival in Lisbon, and concerts organized by ANIMATO—have showcased both his technical brilliance and expressive depth. His involvement with ANIMATO highlights his commitment to musical excellence through prestigious international venues. He has also excelled in chamber music, performing in quintet and trio settings that demonstrate his collaborative artistry and versatility.

Máximo has performed for distinguished figures, including the Minister of Culture and the Prime Minister of Portugal, earning widespread praise. His concert at Casa da Música, streamed live on Rádio Antena 2, and his appearance on Portugal’s SIC TV brought his artistry to broad audiences. He has contributed to two album recordings in Portugal: one commemorating the 150th anniversary of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s birth, and another for the Musical Mostra Eixo Atlântico.

He has collaborated with orchestras such as Orquestra Sinfónica Esproarte under conductor Gustavo Delgado and Bomfim Orquestra under Luís Machado, further showcasing his commanding presence. His role as a jury member for the XXV Ibiza International Piano Competition underscores his growing stature in the classical music world.

Máximo’s competitive achievements highlight his extraordinary talent on international stages. In 2025, he secured First Prize at the Prix du Piano Bern—a major milestone in his career—and Second Prize along with the Best Portuguese Prize at the 6th Viseu International Competition, reflecting both his national pride and exceptional artistry. In previous years, he distinguished himself with numerous victories, including First Prize at the XXIV International Piano Competition in Ibiza, The New York International Music Competition, the Caneres International Music Competition in Vienna, the 4th Oeiras Piano Competition, and the Lisa de Sousa Pedroso Competition, as well as First Prize in Almada and the Fundão International Piano Competition, and Second Prize at the Junior St. Cecília International Competition. Beyond these, he has triumphed in more than 50 additional competitions across Switzerland, Portugal, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Poland, and the United States.

To deepen his artistry, Máximo has participated in masterclasses with world-renowned pianists including Vladimir Viardo, Marian Pivka, Qing Li, Elena Richter, Milana Chernyavska, Philippe Raskin, Manuel Araújo, Luís Pipa, Artur Pizarro, Jacky Wong, Jorge Montenegro, Vasco Dantas, Constantin Sandu, Jorge Martins, and Luís Magalhães. These experiences have enriched his technical precision and interpretive voice, shaping him into a distinctive performer.

Outside the concert hall, Máximo finds inspiration in visiting museums and exploring diverse cultures. An avid football enthusiast, he enjoys sports as a balance to his musical pursuits. His interest in business development and emerging global trends reveals a forward-thinking perspective that complements his artistry.

With exceptional talent, disciplined work ethic, and international acclaim, Máximo Klyetsun is poised to leave a lasting legacy in classical music, captivating audiences with his visionary performances.