In 1956, Piekha began studying singing and composition at the Leningrad Conservatory. In 1957, the ensemble Druzhba and Edita Piekha won Gold Medal and the First Prize at the 6th World Festival of Youth and Students in Moscow. There, Piekha made history with her performances of the popular hit "Moscow Nights", which she was able to sing in several languages to international audiences from 130 nations.