Alexander Melnikov studied at the Moscow Conservatory with Lev Naumov and was strongly influenced early on by Svjatoslav Richter. Prizewinner at major competitions including Zwickau (1989) and the Queen Elisabeth Competition (1991), he is known for innovative programming and a deep interest in historically informed performance, shaped by figures like Andreas Staier and Alexei Lubimov.
He performs regularly with leading period ensembles and major orchestras worldwide, working with renowned conductors. A dedicated chamber musician, his key collaborators include Andreas Staier, Jean-Guihen Queyras, and long-time partner Isabelle Faust, with whom he recorded acclaimed Beethoven, Brahms, and Mozart sonatas.
Melnikov’s recordings include Shostakovich’s Preludes and Fugues (named among the BBC’s 50 Greatest Recordings) and projects spanning Schumann, Beethoven, and Prokofiev. Recent and upcoming seasons feature appearances with top orchestras, chamber partners, and solo recitals across Europe and Asia, alongside new recordings such as Visiting Rachmaninov (2025).