CAMPANELLA'S GREAT PEOPLE
LEADERSHIP
Campanella Founder & Choir Director since 2000,
Campanella Educational Center President,
Illinois American Choral Directors' Association ​Children's Choir Repertory Chair
Marianna Kosaya
Marianna Kosaya was born in Kiev, Ukraine. Her early experiences singing in the renowned Shchedrik children’s choir ignited her lifelong passion for choral music.
She pursued her education at Kiev State Pedagogical University, earning an M.A. in Music Education and Choir Conducting. Following graduation, Marianna served as an accompanist at the university’s Department of Music. In 1994, she immigrated to the United States, continuing her music career.
​
In 2000, Marianna established a children’s choir, initially comprising a small group of singing toddlers. Over time, this ensemble evolved into the highly competitive Children’s Choir Campanella, under Marianna’s direction.
The choir now performs extensively throughout Chicago and has been instrumental in the founding of the Campanella Children's Educational Center, where Marianna serves as Artistic Director. Additionally, she maintains an active voice and piano studio and collaborates with various musical ensembles in Chicago.
MUSICIANS
Accompanist
Maria Alexeeva
Maria, a classical pianist, holds a master's degree in piano
performance from St. Petersburg State Conservatory. Winner of
international competitions as a soloist and collaborative pianist.
With a passion for collaborative music, Maria has extensive
experience working with ballet and opera productions,
accompanying numerous vocalists and singers.
In addition to her performing career, Maria is deeply committed to
nurturing the next generation of pianists. For over six years, she
has cultivated a piano studio in the Glenview/Northbrook area,
guiding and inspiring her students to achieve their full potential.
INSTRUCTORS
Art Class Instructor
Valeriya Lapenko
Valeriya Lapenko, originally from Ukraine, is a multifaceted artist, graphic designer, art teacher, and computer designer. With a passion for creativity and innovation, she enjoys sharing her wealth of experience with students, teaching them to draw, imagine, create, and invent.
Valeriya's artistic journey began in childhood, leading her to pursue formal training at an art school and later at the Ukrainian State Art Academy. She has since worked as a visual designer, established her own Design Studio "Lapenko" in Ukraine, and taught drawing, design, and computer design at the Computer Academy. Her talents have been showcased in advertising exhibitions in Kyiv, where she ranked 11th in Ukraine, and she has become a member of the Union of Advertisers.
Upon moving to the USA, Valeriya continued her creative pursuits, but it was her passion for teaching children to draw and think creatively that truly ignited her spirit.