The Piano Pod - a global hub for innovation, education, and connection in classical piano music

The Piano Pod - a global hub for innovation, education, and connection in classical piano music

por Yukimi Song
Artes escénicasEntrevistas musicales
Temporada 5

Blurred Boundaries - Classical Meets Jazz: Ophelia Gordon, Concert Pianist & Recording Artist

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by the New York Piano Group. Find Your Piano Community with the New York Piano Group! 🔗 Learn more 🎶 Can a composer truly belong to both the jazz and classical worlds? In this episode of The Piano Pod, we sit down with concert pianist and recording artist Ophelia Gordon, a leading interpreter of Nikolai Kapustin’s music. Known for her seamless fusion of classical technique with jazz freedom, Ophelia shares her journey of trusting her instincts, finding her voice, and redefining musical boundaries. Topics We Explore: Trusting Yourself – The journey of self-discovery and staying authentic in a field rooted in tradition. Kapustin’s Legacy – The ongoing debate: Is his music jazz or classical? Improvisation & Freedom – How Ophelia brings spontaneity into structured compositions. Musical Identity & Influence – Growing up in a jazz-loving household, training in classical music, and even studying at the BRIT school. Bridging Two Musical Worlds – Creating jazz-style lead sheets for Kapustin’s etudes, inviting improvisation into his structured compositions. Finding Kapustin in a Time of Crisis – How discovering his music became pivotal in her life. Upcoming Album: Between the Lines – Behind the scenes of her all-Kapustin recording, set for release in Fall 2025. Watch exclusive excerpts of Ophelia’s performances of Kapustin’s works throughout the episode! What do you think—is Kapustin more jazz or classical? How do you define authenticity as a musician? Drop your thoughts in the comments! [Ophelia Gordon - Pianist, Recording Artist, and Leading Kapustin Interpreter] 📸 Instagram & TikTok: @OpheliaGordon 🌍 Website: OpheliaGordon.com [The Piano Pod] 💖 Subscribe for free or unlock exclusive materials with a paid subscription. 🎗️ Support Our Work: Make a donation 🎵 Subscribe to our Sounds of Inspiration (all the music and piano pieces mentioned during our conversations) Stay Connected: Latest News: https://linktr.ee/thepianopod Website: https://thepianopod.com 📱 Instagram: @thepianopod Facebook: https://facebook.com/ThePianoPodNYC TikTok: @thepianopod #Kapustin #Jazz #ClassicalPiano #Pianists #ClassicalPianists #JazzPianist #MusicIdentity #Improvisation
T5 · E12
26 feb 2025
1:45:57

Practising the Piano: Graham Fitch, World's Leading Piano Pedagogue & Icon of Piano Magazine

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by the New York Piano Group. Find Your Piano Community with the New York Piano Group! 🔗 Learn more 🎹 How can neuroscience and a student-centered approach reshape our practice and teaching the piano? In this episode of The Piano Pod, Practising the Piano – Neuroscience, Technique, Musicality, and Performance Mastery for Pianists, I sit down with Graham Fitch—a pianist, educator, writer, and one of the leading figures in piano pedagogy. What separates Graham is his extensive research in piano pedagogy and neuroscience, his empirical, results-driven approach, and his compassionate, student-centered teaching philosophy that transforms how pianists learn and perform. Is Hanon still relevant? What about Czerny? How do neuroscience and modern practice techniques redefine piano pedagogy today? In this episode, we discuss: Why repetition alone won’t lead to mastery—and what actually works How neuroscience helps train technique, memory, and musical expression Creative strategies for effective practice that go beyond scales and exercises Why a student-centered approach leads to better, more engaged learning The importance of feedback and reflection in piano training How to prepare for performance with confidence and expressive freedom A deep dive into traditional and modern piano techniques—including Neuhaus, Hanon, Czerny, and more Muscle memory alone isn’t enough—integrate aural and cognitive learning for mastery. Stay Connected with Graham Fitch Practising The Piano YouTube Channel Books & Courses Mentioned: 🈹 Subscribe yearly to Practising the Piano Online Academy and enjoy full, unlimited access to all materials—plus, save 30% compared to the monthly plan! 🎓 Piano Teachers’ Course UK 🎼 Finchcocks 📖 What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body – Thomas Carson Mark: 🔗 Get it here 📖 Tyranny of Tradition in Piano Teaching – Walter Ponce: 🔗 Get it here 📖 Rudolph Ganz Exercises Contemporary and Special for Piano: 🔗 Read here 📖 Heinrich Neuhaus – The Art of Piano Playing Stay Connected with The Piano Pod Subscribe to TPP on Substack for free or unlock exclusive materials 💬 What are YOUR biggest takeaways from this episode? Drop a comment below, and let’s discuss!
T5 · E11
12 feb 2025
1:57:51

Moving Classics TV: Anna Heller - Leading Figure of Contemporary Piano Music

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by the Foundation for Bolivian Artists. 👉"Celebrate Culture, Discover Hidden Classical Gems, and Explore Bolivia's Talents!" https://bolivianartistfoundation.org/ In this episode of The Piano Pod, we dive into the fascinating world of contemporary classical music with Anna Heller, founder of Moving Classics TV. Anna shares her journey from Siberia to Germany, rebuilding her career and creating a groundbreaking platform that connects audiences to modern piano music. Her innovative work has featured over 500 composers and inspired countless listeners worldwide. In this episode, we discussed: The concept and mission behind Moving Classics TV Anna’s experience rebuilding her career in a new country The process of selecting and curating contemporary piano works Trends in live piano performance formats and contemporary music Anna’s research on "Creativity Codes" and its connection to innovation Insights into thematic recitals like Aquarelle and Bach in Movies Her role as a performer for Candlelight Concerts and its unique appeal The challenges and rewards of freelancing as a concert pianist Anna’s vision for the future of classical music Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with an artist redefining classical piano music's boundaries. Stay Connected with Anna Heller: 🔗 Moving Classics TV 🎥 YouTube Channel 🎵 Discover Creativity Codes Piano Works Mentioned: Kris Lennox - Vapor Trail II Modern Piano - Serban Nichifor - The Circle New Consonant Music - Pietr Lachert - Cropelki Sergey Akhunov - Sketch VII "in memory of Satie" Stay Connected with The Piano Pod: 💖 Subscribe on Substack for free or unlock exclusive materials 🎗️ Support Our Work: Make a donation 🚨 Latest News 🌐 Website 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
T5 · E10
29 ene 2025
1:51:13

Redefining Classical Music: Clare Longendyke - Concert Pianist & Recording Artist

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by the Foundation for Bolivian Artists. 👉"Celebrate Culture, Discover Hidden Classical Gems, and Explore Bolivia's Talents!" Kick off the new year with an exhilarating episode with Clare Longendyke—an extraordinary concert pianist and recording artist redefining the boundaries of classical music. Celebrated for her “artistic ferocity” and innovation, Clare’s career spans solo, chamber, and orchestral performances worldwide. In This Episode: 25 Concerts in 9 Weeks! Clare reflects on her whirlwind 2024 fall season, performing across 10 cities and 7 states. Billboard Breakthrough! Her debut album, …of Dreams Unveiled, debuted at #2 on the Billboard Classical Charts, blending works by Claude Debussy, Amy Williams, and Anthony R. Green. Champion of New Music! Clare has premiered 250 works and commissioned over 30 new compositions, redefining tradition with modern creativity. Forging Her Path. Clare shares how she built a thriving full-time performance career without teaching. Breaking Barriers. Insights on women in classical music, embracing vulnerability, and connecting with audiences. 📢 Special Announcement: Clare shares exciting news during this episode—you don’t want to miss it! Clare’s journey is a testament to courage, vision, and innovation in classical music. Let her story inspire your artistic pursuits! LINKS: Clare’s Ravel Piano Concerto: "Nights in the Gardens of Spain" Her album …of Dreams Unveiled Clare’s Performance of Amy Beach’s Variations on Balkan Themes For all other pieces mentioned during the episode, please check out our Sounds of Inspiration Playlist Clare's Carnegie Performance Tickets Stay Connected with The Piano Pod: Subscribe for free or unlock exclusive materials on Substack Support Our Work: Make a donation Subscribe to Our Monthly Newsletter Latest News: https://linktr.ee/thepianopod Website: https://thepianopod.com 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
T5 · E9
15 ene 2025
1:57:10

Virtuoso Reimagined: A Journey of Reinvention, From IT Executive to Steinway Artist with Holistic Vision - Sophia Agranovich

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by The Compass Concerts! "Start with Mindfulness, Perform with Heart: Discover The Compass Concerts' Unique Musical Experience!" 👉 https://thecompassconcerts.com. Multi-Award-Winning Virtuoso Pianist, Recording Artist, and Steinway Artist, Sophia Agranovich’s life is a remarkable testament to resilience, determination, and the enduring power of passion. A virtuoso pianist, Sophia made the daring decision in the 1980s to pause her flourishing music career and embark on a path in Information Technology. For over two decades, she excelled as an IT executive at prominent organizations like MetLife and Merrill Lynch, all while keeping her passion for the piano alive through daily practice, often during her lunch breaks on a Steinway. In 2008, she returned to the world of music, reigniting her career as a concert pianist. Since then, Sophia has performed on international stages, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, released 11 acclaimed solo albums, and earned recognition as a Steinway Artist. In this episode, we delve into: Her upbringing in a multicultural city in Ukraine, enriched by cultural influences that shaped her artistry. Immigrating to the U.S. in her teens and studying at Juilliard with the legendary Sacha Gorodnitzki. Her bold decision to pursue IT and her success in a completely different field. Re-establishing herself as a concert pianist after more than 20 years in IT. Sophia’s philosophy on preserving classical traditions while reaching new audiences. Her insights into balancing risks, career shifts, and the pursuit of excellence. Sophia's story is one of reinvention, proving that passion can persevere through any career path and emerge stronger than ever with dedication. Her journey from IT executive to internationally celebrated pianist is as inspiring as it is extraordinary. 🎹 Tune in to hear Sophia’s incredible story and learn how she bridges two distinct worlds with grace and mastery. [Sophia Agranovich - Steinway Artist] 🌐 Website 📺 YouTube 🎵🎵 Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 HERE🎵🎵 [Meet Our Sponsor - The Compass Concerts] 🌐 https://thecompassconcerts.com ▶️ @thecompassconcerts [ABOUT THE PIANO POD] ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate HERE ❤️❤️ 🌐 Official Site 📱 Connect with us: https://linktr.ee/thepianopod
T5 · E8
18 dic 2024
1:49:25

Crafting Creative Paths: Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion, feat. Rebecca Hass

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by The Compass Concerts! "Start with Mindfulness, Perform with Heart: Discover The Compass Concerts' Unique Musical Experience!" This episode, “Crafting Creative Paths - Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion,” features an uplifting and insightful conversation with Rebecca Hass, a multifaceted artist whose work bridges music, coaching, and mental health advocacy. Recorded on November 6, right after the 2024 🇺🇸 Presidential election, this episode offers a moment of reflection and inspiration for creative minds. Rebecca’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, authenticity, and self-compassion. From her passion for Brazilian rhythms to her innovative coaching practices, Rebecca has forged her unique path in the music world. ✨ Highlights from the Episode: Discovering Brazilian Music: The 100-Day Project & Composing Journey Exploring Creativity in Music Creative Coaching & Mental Health Authenticity & Community You do not want to miss this powerful episode! [Rebecca Hass] 🌐 Website 🎹 Bandcamp [Links mentioned in the episode] Brazilian rhythms Brazilian rhythms 2 #THE100DAYPROJECT Mara Glatzel Self-compassion meditations from Dr. Kristin Neff Laser Webber Kerry Politzer 🎵🎵 Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 HERE 🎵🎵 [Meet Our Sponsor - The Compass Concerts] 🌐 Website ▶️ Youtube [🎹🎙️ ABOUT THE PIANO POD] ❤️Show your love and support for TPP: Donate https://bit.ly/3EsvRDg ❤️ Connect with us HERE
T5 · E7
4 dic 2024
1:35:16

Healing, Heritage, & Musical Transformation: Yamaha Artist, Dr. Artina McCain

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by The Art Song Preservation Society of New York (ASPSNY)! "Immerse Yourself in a World of Art Song at the Summer of Song Festival 2025!" 🎶 Learn more about ASPSNY’s festival lineup, workshops, and registration options HERE. In this special episode of The Piano Pod, “Healing, Heritage, and Musical Transformation: Exploring Artina McCain’s Journey of Resilience, Advocacy, and Wellness,” we welcome Dr. Artina McCain, an award-winning pianist, Yamaha Artist, wellness advocate, and dedicated educator. Known for her vibrant interpretations and commitment to elevating underrepresented voices in classical music, Artina has captivated audiences worldwide through her performances and innovative teaching methods. 🌟 Highlights of This Episode 🌟 Progress on Inclusivity: Artina’s insights on post-2020 efforts to represent underrepresented and BIPOC composers in classical music. Overcoming Barriers: Advocating for minority composers and navigating challenges in traditional classical music spaces. Diversity in Institutions: Strategies for conservatories and orchestras to better support minority composers and create opportunities for musicians of color as conductors, professors, and producers. Musical Heritage: Showcasing American composers in her album Heritage (2020) and a preview of her exciting upcoming release. Healing Through Music: Overcoming a 6-year performance hiatus with the help of Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) and reengineering her playing for wellness. Tune in for an enriching conversation with Dr. Artina McCain as she shares her journey of resilience, artistic exploration, and commitment to shaping the next generation of musicians through wellness and authenticity. [About Dr. Artina McCain] Website Instagram Pan Con Timba Minstrels Ballade no.2 in F Major by Chopin Fantasie in C Minor by Mozart Were You There arr. Joseph Joubert [Other Links] BBC Podcast Sideways Episode 40 Check Out Gateways Music Festival The Continuum Method Aldo López-Gavilán (Composer) Joseph Joubert (Composer/Arranger) Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 HERE
T5 · E6
20 nov 2024
1:27:33

Dances, Improvisations, & Songs: Mark Markham - Steinway Artist & Improvisor

📣 This Episode is Brought to You by The Art Song Preservation Society of New York (ASPSNY)! "Immerse Yourself in a World of Art Song at the Summer of Song Festival 2025!" In this special episode of The Piano Pod, “Dances, Improvisations, and Song: Exploring Mark Markham’s Legacy and Journey of Passion, Artistry, and Deep Collaborations,” we welcome Mark Markham, acclaimed Steinway Artist, celebrated soloist, collaborative pianist, jazz improviser, and renowned vocal coach. With a career spanning decades and continents, Mark is widely known for his masterful range, from performing classical masterpieces to collaborating with the legendary Jessye Norman in over 300 concerts worldwide. 🌟 Highlights of This Episode 🌟 Mark’s insights on his artistic journey: from Bach to contemporary compositions, and why embracing new repertoire inspires him. An in-depth discussion on improvisation in classical and jazz settings, along with the art of tone production and technique. Mark’s experiences working with numerous celebrated vocalists, emphasizing the importance of vocalist-pianist synergy. His impactful role as an educator and mentor at institutions like Peabody Institute (Johns Hopkins University) and through global masterclasses, including ASPSNY’s programs. Reflections on legacy, purpose in music, and innovative ways to connect with modern audiences. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Mark as he shares his journey, from pivotal career moments to insights into his creative process and dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians. [About Mark Markham] 🌐Website 📺Check out his performances: Mark Markham, piano: Dances and Improvisations, Francis Poulenc Les Chemins De L'Amour - pianist Mark Markham, Mark Markham DEEP RIVER Jessye Norman funeral, Jessye Norman sings "Zwei Gesänge", op. 91 - LIVE, 1997 🎵🎵 Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 HERE🎵🎵 [Meet Our Sponsor - the Art Song Preservation Society of New York] 🌐Website ▶️ YouTube [🎹🎙️ ABOUT THE PIANO POD] ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate https://bit.ly/3EsvRDg ❤️❤️ 🌐 Official Site 📱 Connect with us
T5 · E5
13 nov 2024
2:03:12

Kaleidoscope: Championing Women feat. Dr. Isabel Pérez Dobarro - Concert Pianist, Advocate for Women Composer

This episode is brought to you by Dr. Jon Skidmore and the Musician’s Path to Peak Performance team —helping artists conquer performance anxiety for over 30 years and shine under the spotlight. Visit HERE to learn more. We are thrilled to introduce the esteemed guest of Season 5 Episode 4, – Dr. Isabel Pérez Dobarro – International Concert Pianist, Advocate for Women Composers, and Champion of Global Sustainability 🌍 In this exciting episode of The Piano Pod, Dr. Dobarro shares exclusive details about her brand-new solo album, Kaleidoscope—released on the very day of this interview! Isabel’s album is a beautiful collection of works by women composers from around the world. In this conversation, she delves into the stories behind the music, her advocacy for gender equality, and her mission to promote sustainability in the arts. We also explored: 🎙️ Isabel’s passion for promoting music by women composers globally 🎙️ Her approach to programming that highlights musical diversity across cultures 🎙️ Challenges and progress in advocating for women composers in classical music 🎙️ Her impactful advocacy work, from iconic performances to speaking at the United Nations on sustainability and gender equality [About Dr. Isabel Pérez Dobarro] 🌐 Dr. Dobarro’s Website 🌐 Dr. Dobarro’s New Album, Kaleidoscope 🎵🎵 Check out all other pieces here🎵🎵 [Meet Our Sponsor - Dr. Jon Skidmore, Musician’s Path to Peak Performance] 🌐 Website ▶️ Watch or Listen to Our Conversation with Dr. Skidmore HERE [🎹🎙️ ABOUT THE PIANO POD] Listen to Our Mission Statement HERE ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate HERE ❤️❤️ 🌐 Official Site
T5 · E4
22 oct 2024
1:28:36

Soler and Arsenyan's World: Dr. Hayk Arsenyan - Award-Winning Pianist, Composer, Educator, & Scholar

This episode is brought to you by Dr. Jon Skidmore and the Musician’s Path to Peak Performance team — helping artists conquer performance anxiety for over 30 years and shine under the spotlight. Visit drjonskidmore.com to learn more. We are thrilled to introduce the esteemed guest of Season 5, Episode 3: Dr. Hayk Arsenyan—award-winning pianist, composer, educator, and scholar! 🙌 In this exciting episode, “Soler and Arsenyan’s World,” we explore his extraordinary journey from Armenia to Paris, Moscow, and finally New York City. 🌟 Dr. Arsenyan shares his deep passion for Antonio Soler, an often overlooked 18th-century composer, and his dedication to preserving Soler’s legacy through SolersWorld.com. 🎶 We also explore how his Armenian heritage has influenced his artistry, his early years as a violinist, and his experiences as a global concert pianist. 🎓 Dr. Arsenyan is a dedicated educator, running a thriving piano studio in Manhattan and mentoring the next generation of classical musicians as a professor at NYU Tisch. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🔹 Dr. Arsenyan’s scholarly work on Antonio Soler’s life, music, and contributions 🔹 Insights into performing Soler’s unique compositions 🔹 The inspiration behind his SolersWorld project, complete with concerts and masterclasses 🔹 How Armenian composers and cultural identity shape his performances 🔹 Dr. Arsenyan’s incredible journey across the globe as a pianist and educator 🔹 The story behind receiving the Evgeny Kissin Award and its impact on his career 🔹 Highlights from his remarkable performances around the world This episode is packed with wisdom, authenticity, and joy you won’t want to miss! 💫 🎧 You can also listen to this episode on your favorite podcast platform! [About Dr. Hayk Arsenyan] 🌐Dr. Arsenyan’s Research on Antonio Soler 🌐Dr. Arsenyan’s Website 📺YouTube 🎵🎵 Check out all the pieces mentioned during the episode HERE🎵🎵 [Meet Our Sponsor - Dr. Jon Skidmore, Musician’s Path to Peak Performance] 🌐Website ▶️ Watch or Listen to Our Conversation with Dr. Skidmore 📘His Book: Conquer Anxiety
T5 · E3
8 oct 2024
1:35:58
7 de 24