Elena Panchenko

Accompanist

Elena Panchenko, originally from Ukraine, studied at the Moscow Conservatory, where she earned her degree in piano performance, music history and music theory. She served as the Musical Director of the State Opera for four years and performed the debut of two new operas, including Mrs. Satan, an opera about the life of the first woman presidential candidate, Victoria Woodhall.

Working extensively as an accompanist and church musician, Elena has performed with groups as varied as a children’s dance group to such well-known musicians as Francis Orval and David Shifrin, clarinetist and Music Director of Chamber Music at Lincoln Center. In addition to Elena’s duties with the chorale, she is also the Music Director at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Pullman.

Elena’s family includes her husband, Alex, WSU Math Professor and former Ukrainian rock star (as is Elena); her son Ivan, a student at UW; and their dog, Tasha.