Maria Telesheva (accordion), 16, is currently a junior at North Eugene High School in Eugene, Oregon. She began her accordion studies at the age of 6 under the tutelage of her father, Sergei Teleshev. Two months later, Maria won her first international competition. Since then, Maria has won international Accordion and Vocal Competitions in the United States, Canada, Australia, Italy, Belarus, and Ukraine. An accomplished singer, Maria has also performed as a back-up vocalist with the world-renowned Chicago cover band, “Leonid & Friends.”

In November 2021, Maria was awarded the title “Prodigy of the Year” and was selected to grace the cover of the “Accordion Stars Illustrated” Magazine, December/January Issue. Often collaborating with her father and teacher, Sergei Teleshev, the two have established a duo by the name of “TWO ACCORDIONS.” It is one of the most successful and popular groups in this genre, touring nationally and internationally, while also providing educational school programs nationwide. In 2020, the father and daughter duo founded the popular Accordion Star International Competition that takes place every summer online, bringing together hundreds of accordion players from all over the world. In the four years since its founding, thirty-six different countries have been involved.

Outside of music, Maria is a dedicated academic student with a passion for sports, including swimming, gymnastics, ballet, and competitive acrobatics.

Receiving the Award will allow Maria to purchase a light-weight professional accordion which will allow her to tour more easily and have more versatility in the professional field.