Alla Voskoboynikova recognized with Steinway award for outstanding piano instruction

UMSL Daily

Steinway Piano Gallery of St. Louis nominated the UMSL music faculty member for the honor, citing her excellence in “guiding each of her students to achieve their maximum potential.” (Photo courtesy of Alla Voskoboynikova)
Ask Alla Voskoboynikova about the striking instruments that dominate her studio at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, and she speaks of them as treasured companions.
In one corner stands a beguiling clavichord. The other side of the room belongs to a handcrafted, seven-foot-long grand piano – and she’s especially fond of it.
“Our instrument is more than just an instrument,” explains the associate teaching professor of music. “With this one, UMSL actually sent me to New York to the Steinway factory to pick it out, and I brought this instrument here. So we feel very human about our instrument. It’s a friend.”
That connection between pianists and their pianos – particularly Steinways – made the news Voskoboynikova received last month even more special.
In June, a letter arrived from that same New York factory where she remembers trying out so many beautiful instruments several years ago. She was thrilled to learn that the company was honoring her with a Steinway & Sons Top Teacher Award.
“That came in the mail, and then Gerry Malzone, the vice president of the Steinway Piano Gallery here in St. Louis, came to campus the other day and brought this,” Voskoboynikova says, showing off a framed certificate.
Steinway bestows the awards annually in recognition of outstanding piano instruction and leadership. Malzone emphasizes Voskoboynikova’s renowned presence as a soloist, accompanist and educator as the impetus for the gallery’s nomination of her for the honor.
“Alla has excelled at guiding each of her students to achieve their maximum potential,” he says. “Her passion extends to all students whether their personal goals are for the concert stage or as a music enthusiast.”
Indeed, ...

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