“Illia Ovcharenko’s solo performances were technically flawless and impeccably musical. He captured the wild emotional swings of Schumann’s Kreisleriana, vaulted effortlessly over the hurdles in Ginastera’s Sonata No. 1 and concluded with a stupendous performance of Liszt’s Sonata in B minor. I’m confident this 21-year-old Ukrainian will have a big career.”

—International Piano

“On the basis of what I heard in the Finals I concert 2 nights ago there was no doubt in my mind who should win this competition: 21-year-old Illia Ovcharenko.”

—La Scena

“Ovcharenko proved to be a remarkably stylish Mozartian: the runs sparkled, the sound was clear and crisp, and there was a rhythmic liveliness that informed every movement of the concerto…the audience was simply overwhelmed.”

—The Calgary Herald

“That pride was evident during his final performance as he played Tchaikovsky’s Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor. Accompanied by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, Ovcharenko hit every note with confidence, earning a standing ovation.”

—Hilton Head Monthly

“…the most important part of the afternoon program was probably Ovcharenko’s astonishing Liszt Sonata in B minor. Lushly detailed and violently thrilling, it left us holding our breath and riveted …“

—Ludwig Van

“His Tchaikovsky Concerto No 1 was among the finest I have heard in the last 20 years – a list that includes the likes of Nikolai Lugansky, Evengy Kissin, Yuja Wang, and Daniil Trifonov.”

—International Piano

“…his Mozart was playful, with shapely singsong phrasing and crispy edges… In his hands, the Andantino had a piercing, delicious clarity and the finale was more joyful than silly. It was an impeccable performance.”

—Ludwig Van

“But Ovcharenko is a tremendous pianist, who would shine at any of the world’s most prestigious competitions.”

—International Piano

“…his Mozart was playful, with shapely singsong phrasing and crispy edges… In his hands, the Andantino had a piercing, delicious clarity and the finale was more joyful than silly. It was an impeccable performance.”

—Ludwig Van

“Ovcharenko is as thoughtful and exact in his concert programming as he is technically proficient and emotionally immersive at the keyboard.”

—Blogcritics