Sofiia Zaika, pianist

Ukrainian-born pianist Sofiia Zaika began her musical journey at the age of five, captivated by the sounds of her favourite music and the piano. What began as a childhood fascination has grown into a deep commitment to musical expression and sharing music with others.

Sofiia studied in Poland under the guidance of Anna Gajewska, earning recognition at competitions and festivals, including the III International Gloria Artis Music Competition in Vienna, where she won top prize and was invited to perform at the gala concert in both 2021 and 2022. Since relocating to Canada, she has continued her studies with esteemed Ottawa pedagogue Nicole Presentey.

Her recent achievements include winning the Margaret Jenkins Trophy in the concert group, receiving the Anne Presentey Scholarship at Chamberfest’s Rising Stars Showcase in 2025, and earning an Honourable Mention at the 2026 Ontario Music Festivals Association (OMFA) Provincials. In 2026, Sofiia performed at the Music and Beyond Festival, was highlighted as a soloist at Chamberfest's Odessa Classics feature concert, and was featured in a CBC radio interview. She has also participated in masterclasses with distinguished pianists including Illia Ovcharenko, Philip Chiu, Georgy Tchaidze, and Jon Kimura Parker.

Beyond the concert stage, Sofiia is passionate about connecting music with her community. She has accompanied the Ukrainian Children’s Choir of Ottawa in performances of traditional Ukrainian music and has volunteered her musical talents at retirement residences, sharing the joy of live performance with audiences of all ages.

Deeply connected to her Ukrainian heritage, Sofiia enjoys exploring Ukrainian music alongside the expressive and virtuosic works of Franz Liszt. Through her performances, she hopes to celebrate her cultural roots, continue growing as an artist, and build meaningful connections with audiences through music.