Marina Tseova is a Russian-born cellist recognized for her expressive artistry, technical finesse,

and deep musical sensitivity. Originally trained as a pianist, she graduated with honors from her

local music school before discovering her true passion for the cello at the age of 19.

From 2014 to 2017, Marina studied at the Valery Gergiev College of Arts in Vladikavkaz, where

her swift transition to the cello was met with early acclaim. She was awarded 3rd Prize at the

prestigious South Russian Open Competition for Strings at the Rostov State Rachmaninov

Conservatory, signaling a promising future in the world of strings.

In 2017, she advanced to the pre-college program at the Moscow State Tchaikovsky

Conservatory, and the following year enrolled at the Galina Vishnevskaya College of Music and

Theater Arts in Moscow. There, she studied under Doctor of Musical Arts Alexander Smirnov, a

renowned pedagogue, head professor of cello, and former student of the legendary Gregor

Piatigorsky. Under his mentorship, Marina refined her technical and artistic voice and graduated

in 2021.

During this period, she became a laureate of several international competitions, including the

Music Box International Online Contest (UK), New Year’s Stars International Music Competition

(Turkey), and the PLAY & International Online Arts Contest (2020). She also participated in

master classes with distinguished cellists, including Oleg Sendetsky, principal cellist of the

Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra—whom she would later collaborate with professionally.

Following her graduation, Marina was appointed assistant principal cellist with the Mariinsky

Theatre Opera and Ballet. There, she performed under the baton of world-renowned conductor

Valery Gergiev and participated in over 120 productions per season, ranging from opera and

ballet to philharmonic concerts. Her time at the Mariinsky exposed her to an elite roster of

soloists, conductors, and dancers, shaping her into a seasoned and versatile performer. She

also performed with the State Philharmonia of National and Folk Instruments, deepening her

connection to Russian musical traditions.

Beyond the stage, Marina is an experienced and dedicated educator, having taught students of

all ages and skill levels. She is passionate about nurturing young talent and sharing the

transformative power of music.

Now based in Los Angeles, Marina continues to perform, teach, and expand her musical career,

blending her rich classical heritage with new artistic inspirations.

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