Pianist Julia Mortyakova maintains an international performing career and has performed in Bulgaria, Canada, Italy, Romania, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and throughout the U.S. She currently serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Music and the Founder/Director of the international Music by Women Festival at Mississippi University for Women. Julia specializes in performing music by women composers. She offers solo recitals, masterclasses, lessons, and outreach presentations featuring performances of works by women composers, lectures about their lives and work, and audience participation. Julia is the recipient of: 2021 Mississippi Arts Commission Performing Arts Fellowship, 2025 Kossen Faculty Excellence, 2023-2024 Excellence in Creative Activity and Excellence in Teaching in Creative Spaces Awards (MUW), and the 2023 Steinway Top Piano Teacher award. Dr. Mortyakova is a graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy, Vanderbilt University, New York University, and the University of Miami.