Denis Shapovalov – Russian-Israeli cellist, conductor and composer, classical, jazz and rock performer, cello professor and coach. He is invited to give masterclasses at the leading music institutions including Svizzera Italiana Conservatory in Lugano, Santa-Cecilia Conservatory in Rome, Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan, Perosi Academy of Music in Piemont, Belgrade University of Arts, Jazeps Vitols Latvian Academy of Music,  etc.

Graduated from the Moscow State Conservatory where Denis studied with professor Natalia Shakhovskaya. Being a student Shapovalov won the Gold medal and First prize at the XI Tchaikovsky Competition.

After finishing the post-graduate course, when Denis was just 26 years old he was invited to the Moscow State Conservatory, where he was a professor for 11 years.

 

“Brilliant talent! He must be proud of it in front of the whole world!”  – Mstislav Rostropovich

 

During 10 years Shapovalov was invited by Mstislav Rostropovich to perform under his baton with different orchestras in Russia, Europe and USA. Preparing for these concerts legendary Maestro was always happy to share his unique knowledge and skills with Denis.

 

During 25 years of his career Shapovalov has performed in world major concert halls such as Musikverein, Concertgebouw, Barbican Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, Suntory Hall, and others all over the world with top-level orchestras including London Symphony, Bayerische Rundfunk, NHK, etc. under leading conductors.

 

 

Denis has given masterclasses all over the world and in 2014 he started his own teaching project – The Cello International Travel Academy. Since then Cello Travel International Academy regularly runs series of masterclasses in Europe, Asia and South America.

 

 

Being a diversified musician, who has an experience of working in and with orchestras, and as well in different chamber ensembles, Denis elaborated his own teaching method to reach the highest quality of performance in the shortest possible way.

 

 

Shapovalov’s teaching style is very precise and effective. While working with students he combines English and Italian languages.

 

 

Besides all, Denis Shapovalov is a big fan of rock music. His unique compositions – “Rock-variations on a Rococo theme” and “Symphony in Rock style” are always met with standing ovations both – at open-air concerts and at classical music venues.