Since being named Gold Medalist at the Eleventh Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2001, Olga Kern has performed in many of the major venues on all 5 continents, captivating fans and critics alike with her passionate artistry and magnetic stage presence. Immediately following her acclaimed New York recital début at Carnegie Halls new Zankel Hall on May 1st, 2004 – "A Pianist on her way up" (New York Times) – she was invited back to play a return engagement in Carnegie Halls main Stern Auditorium only 11 days later; the evening was a triumph.