2027 Adjudicators 

GEMS Piano Competition 2026

Dates: May 13-15th, 2027
Location:

• Stephens Performing Arts Center
  1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201
  
  

• Master Class with Dr.Theresa Bogard
  May 14th | 10:00 AM

• Fundraising Recital Featuring Dr. Oksana Ejokina

May 14th  | 7:30 PM
 

• GEMS Pre-College Piano Preliminary Rounds (closed to the public)
  May 14 | 3:00–7:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• May 15 | 10:00–2:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• GEMS Piano Competition Finals
  May 15 | 3:00–9:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  Finalists from the 2026 GEMS Piano Competition will perform in the concluding rounds. Join us for an afternoon and evening of exceptional performances celebrating dedication and artistry.​

• 3:00 PM  Primary, Elementary, Intermediate 1

4:30 PM Award Ceremony

6:30 PM  Intermediate 2, Advanced 1, 2

9:00 PM Award Ceremony

Adjudicators’ Biographies

Dr. Theresa Bogard is an acclaimed American pianist and Steinway Artist known for her dynamic performances across five continents, championing works by women and lesser-known composers, and winning top prize at the International Mozart Fortepiano Competition in Bruges after receiving a Fulbright grant to study historical performance practice at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague. A dedicated educator, her students have gained acceptance into top conservatories including Juilliard and Eastman, and she has taught at major international festivals in Italy and Germany while serving as a frequent competition adjudicator. Her extensive discography spans solo, chamber, and fortepiano recordings, and she has developed a particular passion for Brazilian music through frequent tours and masterclasses across the country since 2007. 

Russian-born pianist Oksana Ezhokina is an internationally active soloist and chamber musician who has performed at prestigious venues including Benaroya Hall, Davies Orchestra Hall, and the Phillips Collection, soloed with the St. Petersburg Philharmonic, and premiered works by composers such as Marilyn Shrude and Laura Kaminsky, with radio features on WFMT, KUOW, and KING FM. As pianist of the Volta Piano Trio, her recordings on the Con Brio label have earned acclaim from The Strad, Gramophone, and American Record Guide, and she currently serves as Chair of Piano Studies at PLU and Artistic Director of classical music programs at the Icicle Creek Center for the Arts. She received a 2012 GAP grant to support the 20th Anniversary opening night concert of the Icicle Creek International Chamber Music Festival, a program dedicated to premiering new works, providing low- or no-cost community outreach, and offering students the opportunity to perform alongside faculty.

Dr. Christie Sowby, NCTM, is an award-winning pianist, educator, and specialist in extended piano techniques and contemporary music who made her Carnegie Hall debut in 2018, has won two international piano competitions, and holds degrees from Brigham Young University, Harvard University, the New England Conservatory, and the University of Utah. An exceptionally decorated teacher, her accolades include the MTNA National Studio Teacher Fellowship, the Royal Conservatory of Music's Teacher of Distinction Award, Utah's "Best of State" twice, multiple MTNA Teacher Enrichment Grants, and in Fall 2024 she became the youngest recipient of UMTA's Legacy Award. She maintains an extensive leadership portfolio across organizations including MTNA, UMTA, and NCKP, teaches students worldwide through private lessons, masterclasses, and summer camps, and serves as a jury member for the World Piano Teachers Association and ENKOR International Music Competition.

GEMS 2026 Piano Competition Fundraising Recital 

Featuring Dr. Oksana Ejokina
May 14 | 7:30–8:30 PM

About the KIND Conservatory

The KIND Conservatory (Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication) is a nonprofit music education organization based in Pocatello, Idaho. Our mission is to make high-quality music education accessible to students across southeastern Idaho, regardless of financial background. We provide private lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities—including the annual GEMS Piano Competition—for over 60 students from seven counties. Learn more: www.kindconservatory.org 

Event Overview

A powerful evening of piano music by Lily Boulanger, Mozart, Liszt, short pieces by two friends, Rachmaninov and Medtner, performed by internationally recognized pianist Dr. Cahill Smith. Free for GEMS participants, their teachers and parents, the ISU Music Department students and faculty. $40 for the general public.  Tickets. All proceeds go toward competition expenses and student awards.

This recital supports the GEMS Piano Competition (www.gemscompetition.org), an educational initiative providing valuable performance opportunities for young pianists throughout  Idaho.

Program

TBD

About the Artist

Acknowledgments

The GEMS Piano Competition and tonight’s event are made possible through the generous support of:

• F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation

• Portneuf Medical Center

• DW Investors

• Dakota Worrell and Hannah Green

• Bricks and More, LLC

• Denis and Kathleen Clijsters

• Willard Charitable Foundation, Inc.

• ISU Music Department and Dr. Kori Bond

• Mark Neiwirth and Musicians West, Inc.

• Simplot

• ICCU

• Walmart

• Arutyunov family -  Nina, Sergey, Vladislav, Maria

Past GEMS EVENTS

2026 Adjudicators 

GEMS Piano Competition 2026

• Registration opens April 1st at www.gemscompetition.org.

• $8'550 in total prizes. 

• This year's update: $505 from KIND Conservatory towards SIPS participation. Up to $175 in the Junior Piano division and up to $330 in the Senior. 

Dates: May 14–16, 2026
Location:

• Stephens Performing Arts Center
  1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201
  
  

• Annual ISU Piano Sale
  May 14-17th:  open to the public. 

May 13th; by appointment. Call 208-524-0127 or visit isupianosale.com
Stephens Performing Arts Center
The ISU/Piano Gallery Piano Sale offers deeply discounted pricing on new and used pianos. Largest piano sale in the Mountain West. 

• GEMS 2026: Young Artist Competition
  May 14th | 6:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  An adjudicated event showcasing talented collegiate (19-25) pianists from Idaho. Audience members are welcome to attend and support these emerging artists.​
  
  

• Master Class with Dr. Renato Fabbro
  May 15th | 10:00 AM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  Internationally acclaimed pianist and educator Dr. Renato Fabbro will conduct an open master class with selected participants. This session offers a unique opportunity to observe high-level teaching and musical interpretation. Free and open to the public.​

• Candlelight Gala - GEMS Fundraising Recital – Dr. Cahill Smith (piano)

  May 15 | 7:30–9:00 PM

  Stephens Performing Arts Center

  1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201

A uniquely restorative evening of piano music by Lily Boulanger, Mozart, Liszt, short pieces by two friends, Rachmaninov and Medtner, performed by internationally recognized pianist Dr. Cahill Smith. Free for GEMS participants, their teachers and parents, the ISU Music Department students and faculty. $40 for the general public. Tickets. 

• GEMS Pre-College Piano Preliminary Rounds (closed to the public)
  May 15 | 3:00–7:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• May 16 | 10:00–2:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• GEMS Piano Competition Finals
  May 16 | 3:00–9:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  Finalists from the 2026 GEMS Piano Competition will perform in the concluding rounds. Join us for an afternoon and evening of exceptional performances celebrating dedication and artistry.​

• 3:00 PM  Primary, Elementary, Intermediate 1

4:30 PM Award Ceremony

6:30 PM  Intermediate 2, Advanced 1, 2

9:00 PM Award Ceremony

Adjudicators’ Biographies

Dr. Cahill Smith is a pianist, educator, and scholar specializing in the works of Nikolai Medtner. With a distinguished academic and performing career, he holds leadership roles at Utah State University, has been honored for his teaching and mentoring, and continues to contribute through performance, recordings, and outreach to young musicians. 

Dr. Renato Fabbro is a highly regarded concert pianist, teacher, and adjudicator, celebrated for his performances at major music festivals, distinguished wins and appearances with symphony orchestras, and his inspiration to many through pedagogical excellence. He continues to influence the next generation of pianists through his dedicated teaching and mentorship. 

Dr. Carmen Wolthius Hall - pianist, speaker, teacher, and collaborative artist—holds degrees from the University of Utah and BYU. She founded Young Pianists International, leading student exchange tours (Ghana this year; prior tours to China, Japan, Mexico, Oregon, and Washington, D.C.). With an American Fork City grant, she launched the Timpanogos Chamber Music Series. She has performed with the Salt Lake City and Timpanogos symphonies and the BYU Philharmonic. An avid cyclist and marathoner, she has completed five marathons, including Boston.

GEMS 2026 Piano Competition Fundraising Recital 

Featuring Dr. Cahill Smith
May 15 | 7:30–8:30 PM
Stephens Performing Arts Center
1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201

Presented by the KIND Conservatory in collaboration with the Idaho State University Music Department

About the KIND Conservatory

The KIND Conservatory (Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication) is a nonprofit music education organization based in Pocatello, Idaho. Our mission is to make high-quality music education accessible to students across southeastern Idaho, regardless of financial background. We provide private lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities—including the annual GEMS Piano Competition—for over 60 students from seven counties. Learn more: www.kindconservatory.org 

Event Overview

A powerful evening of piano music by Lily Boulanger, Mozart, Liszt, short pieces by two friends, Rachmaninov and Medtner, performed by internationally recognized pianist Dr. Cahill Smith. Free for GEMS participants, their teachers and parents, the ISU Music Department students and faculty. $40 for the general public.  Tickets. All proceeds go toward competition expenses and student awards.

This recital supports the GEMS Piano Competition (www.gemscompetition.org), an educational initiative providing valuable performance opportunities for young pianists throughout  Idaho.

Program

TBD

About the Artist

Dr. Cahill Smith is an acclaimed pianist and educator known for his performances as both soloist and chamber musician across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. He has appeared in venues such as Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Cleveland Museum of Art, Royal Dublin Society’s Concert Hall, and concert halls throughout China, Taiwan, Ukraine, and the UK. He has performed as concerto soloist with orchestras including the National Ukrainian Symphony, Alabama Symphony, Eastman Philharmonia, and the Mongolian Symphony Orchestra.

Dr. Smith is recognized internationally for his interpretations of Nikolai Medtner’s music. His debut solo CD, Medtner: Forgotten Melodies, was named “CD of the Week” by Classical Radio Boston and praised by Marc-André Hamelin as “a remarkable accomplishment.” Smith has given Medtner recitals and lectures at Yale, the International Medtner Festival in London, and beyond.

Since 2019, Dr. Smith has served on the piano faculty at Utah State University, where he co-coordinates the piano area, directs the Wassermann Piano Series and Summer Piano Festival, and oversees graduate studies in music. He also advises USU’s Youth Conservatory, a program serving over 200 pre-college students, and the MTNA Collegiate Chapter, named National Chapter of the Year in 2022. He was named USU’s Teacher of the Year and Undergraduate Mentor of the Year (2023), and Graduate Mentor of the Year (2021).

Previously, Dr. Smith taught at Lee University and directed their International Piano Festival. He holds a DMA from the Eastman School of Music, where he studied with Natalya Antonova and received top honors in performance, teaching, and chamber music. He earned degrees from the University of Michigan (with Arthur Greene) and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (with Yakov Kasman).

Acknowledgments

The GEMS Piano Competition and tonight’s event are made possible through the generous support of:

• F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation

• Portneuf Medical Center

• DW Investors

• Dakota Worrell and Hannah Green

• Bricks and More, LLC

• Denis and Kathleen Clijsters

• Willard Charitable Foundation, Inc.

• ISU Music Department and Dr. Kori Bond

• Mark Neiwirth and Musicians West, Inc.

• Simplot

• ICCU

• Walmart

• Arutyunov family -  Nina, Sergey, Vladislav, Maria

past GEMS events

2025 Adjudicators 

GEMS Piano Competition 2025 

Dates: May 15–17, 2025
Location:

• Stephens Performing Arts Center
  1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201
  
  

• Annual ISU Piano Sale
  May 16-17th:  open to the public. 

May 14-15th; by appointment. Call 208-524-0127 or visit isupianosale.com
Stephens Performing Arts Center
The ISU/Piano Gallery Piano Sale offers deeply discounted pricing on new and used pianos. Largest piano sale in Mountain West. 

• GEMS 2025 Opening; Daytime Concert

Looking for something inspiring and family-friendly this May?

Join us for a special Daytime Concert presented by KIND Conservatory, featuring six imaginative new works by the University of Utah Composers Collective! This one-hour performance is the perfect introduction to live music for young listeners—engaging, creative, and performed by a professional ensemble.

Thursday, May 15 | 3:30–4:30 PM
Jensen Hall, Stephens Performing Arts Center
Free admission | All ages welcome

Give your child the chance to experience something extraordinary—and maybe even spark a lifelong love of music!

• Young Artist Competition
  May 15 | 6:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  An adjudicated event showcasing talented collegiate (19-25) pianists from Idaho. Audience members are welcome to attend and support these emerging artists.​
  
  
  

• Master Class with Dr. Vedrana Subotic
  May 16 | 10:00 AM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  Internationally acclaimed pianist and educator Dr. Vedrana Subotić will conduct an open master class with selected participants. This session offers a unique opportunity to observe high-level teaching and musical interpretation. Free and open to the public.​

• GEMS Fundraising Recital – Dr. Vladislav Kosminov (piano)

  May 16 | 7:30–9:00 PM

  Stephens Performing Arts Center

  1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201

A powerful evening of works by Rachmaninov, Ginastera, and Balakirev performed by internationally recognized pianist Dr. Vladislav  Kosminov. Admission is free; donations support the GEMS Competition. Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall

• GEMS Pre-College Piano Preliminary Rounds (closed to the public)
  May 16 | 3:00–7:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• May 17 | 10:00–2:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall, Bistiline and Black Box Theater

• GEMS Piano Competition Finals
  May 17 | 3:00–9:00 PM
  Stephens Performing Arts Center – Jensen Hall
  Finalists from the 2025 GEMS Piano Competition will perform in the concluding rounds. Join us for an afternoon and evening of exceptional performances celebrating dedication and artistry.​

• 3:00 PM  Primary, Elementary, Intermediate 1

4:30 PM Award Ceremony

6:30 PM  Intermediate 2, Advanced 1, 2

9:00 PM Award Ceremony

Adjudicators’ Biographies

Dr. Vedrana Subotić

Dr. Vedrana Subotić is a Serbian-Croatian-American pianist recognized internationally for her dynamic performances and pedagogical expertise. She serves as an Professorof Music at the University of Utah and is the President and Music Director of INTERMEZZO. Dr. Subotić has performed extensively across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, collaborating with renowned musicians and orchestras. Her dedication to music education is evident through her numerous master classes and lectures worldwide. 

Dr. Karali Hunter

Dr. Karali Hunter is an award-winning pianist and educator based in Phoenix, Arizona. She is the Owner and Founder of Hammer & Strings Conservatory and has performed as a soloist and chamber musician across the United States and internationally. Dr. Hunter made her Carnegie Hall debut in 2011 after winning first prize in the American Protégé Piano and Strings Competition. She is highly regarded for her innovative teaching methods and commitment to nurturing young musicians. ​

Dr. Vladislav Kosminov

Dr. Vladislav Kosminov, originally from Uzbekistan, is the winner of the 2021 ASU School of Music Concerto Competition. He completed his Doctor of Musical Arts at Arizona State University under Dr. Baruch Meir. Dr. Kosminov has performed with ensembles such as the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra and the National Symphony of Uzbekistan. He has been featured in Portland Piano International’s "Rising Star" series and is a prizewinner of several competitions, including the Rubinstein and Gershwin International Piano Competitions.​

GEMS 2025 Piano Competition Fundraising Recital

Featuring Dr. Vladislav Kosminov
May 16 | 7:30–9:00 PM
Stephens Performing Arts Center
1002 Sam Nixon Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201

Presented by the KIND Conservatory in collaboration with the Idaho State University Music Department

About the KIND Conservatory

The KIND Conservatory (Knowledge, Innovation, Nurturing, and Dedication) is a nonprofit music education organization based in Pocatello, Idaho. Our mission is to make high-quality music education accessible to students across southeastern Idaho, regardless of financial background. We provide private lessons, group classes, and performance opportunities—including the annual GEMS Piano Competition—for over 60 students from seven counties. Learn more: www.kindconservatory.org 

Event Overview

Join us for a special recital by Dr. Vladislav Kosminov, an accomplished concert pianist as he performs a powerful program featuring works by Rachmaninov, Ginastera, and Balakirev.

This recital supports the GEMS Piano Competition (www.gemscompetition.org), an educational initiative providing valuable performance opportunities for young pianists throughout  Idaho.

Admission is free | Donations accepted (www.kindconservatory.org)
All proceeds go toward competition expenses and student awards.

Program

Sergei Rachmaninov (1873–1943)
Preludes:

• Op. 32 No. 12 in G-sharp minor

• Op. 23 No. 4 in D major

• Op. 32 No. 5 in G major

• Op. 23 No. 1 in F-sharp minor

• Op. 32 No. 10 in B minor

• Op. 23 No. 5 in G minor

Elegy in E-flat minor, Op. 3 No. 1
Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14 (arr. Zoltán Kocsis)

Alberto Ginastera (1916–1983)
Danzas Argentinas, Op. 2
I. Danza del Viejo Boyero
II. Danza de la Moza Donosa
III. Danza del Gaucho Matrero

Mily Balakirev (1837–1910)
Islamey: Oriental Fantasy

About the Artist

Dr. Vladislav Kosminov, a native of Uzbekistan, is the winner of the 2021 ASU School of Music Concerto Competition. He recently completed his Doctor of Musical Arts at Arizona State University, studying under Dr. Baruch Meir.

Dr. Kosminov made his U.S. debut in 2013 as winner of the Lynn Concerto Competition, performing Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 1 under Maestro Guillermo Figueroa. In 2015, he made his California debut with Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 alongside the Redlands Symphony, a performance described as “liquid gold in intricate patterns” (Redlands Daily Facts).

His recent appearances include performances with the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra and the National Symphony of Uzbekistan. He was also featured in Portland Piano International’s "Rising Star" series and is a prizewinner of numerous competitions including the Rubinstein and Gershwin International Piano Competitions.

Acknowledgments

The GEMS Piano Competition and tonight’s event are made possible through the generous support of:

• F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation

• Portneuf Medical Center

• DW Investors

• Dakota Worrell and Hannah Green

• Bricks and More, LLC

• Denis and Kathleen Clijsters

• Willard Charitable Foundation, Inc.

• Pocatello Arts Council

• ISU Music Department and Dr. Kori Bond

• Mark Neiwirth and Musicians West, Inc.