Ivona Kesic – Piano / Voice
Ivona Kesic is an accomplished pianist and passionate piano pedagogue originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Her musical journey began at a young age, drawn to her grandfather’s piano where she would compose and perform small pieces for her family. That early curiosity blossomed into a lifelong dedication to music, performance, and teaching. Ivona began her formal piano education under Prof. Jasna Djurovic, and soon earned a silver medal at the Young Musicians International Competition in Barletta, Italy. Since then, she has performed in numerous festivals and competitions, including the Italian music festival Nei Suoni dei Luoghi. She recorded “Sanje” by Isidor Bajic for CD publication. Ivona is a two-time recipient of the “Milan Jelic” scholarship and was awarded national recognition for academic and artistic achievements.
Her Bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance was completed at Academy of Arts in Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina), where she studied under Prof. Nevena Popovic and later Prof. Snjezana Popovic. Their mentorship helped shape her musical voice and inspired her to tour throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, bringing classical music to broader audiences. Exposure to various cultures and musical traditions further deepened her appreciation for diversity in music.
Ivona has attended masterclasses with esteemed European pianists such as Aleksandar Serdar, Natasa Veljkovic, Vladimir Bockarjov, gaining a variety of perspectives that continue to influence her teaching and performance approach. In 2023, Ivona moved to Chicago to pursue her Master’s degree in Piano Pedagogy at Northeastern Illinois University, studying under Dr. Susan Tang. She completed the program in 2025, earning high honors and recognition for her excellence in both teaching and performance. During her time at NEIU, she won the Elyse J. Mach Concerto Competition, performing Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor as a soloist with the Northeastern Illinois University Orchestra. She also regularly performed in piano showcases, both as a soloist and in piano ensembles.
A deeply collaborative musician, Ivona served as an accompanist for a wide range of performers, including vocalists, choirs, and woodwind ensembles. Her outstanding contributions to ensemble and collaborative work earned her the Esprit de Corps Award, given to students who demonstrate exceptional dedication and artistry in musical collaboration. In addition to her teaching and performing career, Ivona is a staff member of the Chicago Chamber Festival, where she continues to share her expertise and passion for chamber music and music education.
With over a decade of teaching experience, Ivona has taught students of all ages, from beginners to advanced pianists. She is known for her creative, student-centered approach, always finding innovative ways to tackle technical and musical challenges. Many of her students have participated in festivals and competitions, earning top prizes under her mentorship.
Ivona Kesic continues to inspire others through both performance and pedagogy—sharing the beauty, depth, and joy of music wherever she goes.