📣 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

🎥 Watch the Trailer for Our Final 2024 Episode feat. Sophia Agranovich!

Join us for the last episode of The Piano Pod in 2024, featuring the extraordinary Sophia Agranovich, proudly sponsored by The Compass Concerts, tomorrow, December 17, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET!

Sophia is a celebrated pianist, a trailblazer in IT, an advocate for holistic wellness, and a devoted educator. Her journey is a remarkable testament to resilience, determination, and the enduring power of passion.

In the 1980s, Sophia made the bold decision to pause her flourishing music career to excel as an IT executive at MetLife and Merrill Lynch—all while staying connected to her first love, the piano. In 2008, she returned to the stage, reigniting her career as a concert pianist. Today, she’s a Steinway Artist with 11 acclaimed solo albums and performances at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

In this episode, we explore:

• ✨ Balancing two careers: how she kept her music alive while excelling in IT and raising a family.
• ✨ Her triumphant return to music, including global performances and acclaimed recordings.
• ✨ How stepping away gave her a fresh perspective and deepened her artistry.
• ✨ Insights into her passion for connecting music, wellness, and education.

Sophia’s story is about reinvention—proving that talent, passion, and dedication can thrive through any career path.

🎹 Join the broadcast of this special episode this coming Tuesday, December 17 at 8:0 0pm ET, on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/uDGhZ9EdveY

🎧 The audio episode will also be available simultaneously on your go-to podcast platforms: https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio

👉 Don’t forget to like, follow, and share this post with friends and fellow music lovers!

.

#ThePianoPod #PodcastEpisode #SophiaAgranovich #PianoMusic #ClassicalMusic #SteinwayArtist #MusicAndWellness #RediscoverPassion #ClassicalMusicPodcast

📣 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

🎥 Here’s the Trailer for Season 5 Episode 7 feat. - Rebecca Hass: Pianist, Composer, Creative Coach, and Musicians’ Mental Health Advocate!

The Piano Pod’s upcoming episode, “Crafting Creative Paths,” 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 own unique path in the music world.

✨ Highlights from the Episode:

• Discovering Brazilian Music: Rebecca fell in love with Brazilian rhythms through influences that transformed her artistry. Her albums, Florescer and Bright Little Worlds, capture the wit, lyricism, and joy inspired by these vibrant sounds. She also shares an excerpt from Gingando and offers a quick lecture exploring the diversity of Brazilian music.
• The 100-Day Project & Composing Journey: Rebecca discusses how #The100DayProjects sparked her creative growth. By committing to compose at least 8 bars of music daily for 100 days, she embraced the cumulative power of small, consistent efforts. This practice shaped her approach to composition and led to her stunning 2024 album, Bright Little Worlds, featuring 22 genre-blending pieces.
• Exploring Creativity in Music Making: Rebecca explains how integrating improvisation, genre exploration, and composition into piano practice enhances creative expression, intuition, and emotional connection. Her perspective offers actionable advice for musicians of all levels.
• Creative Coaching & Mental Health: Learn about Rebecca’s coaching philosophy, which focuses on self-compassion, energy management, and realistic to-do lists. She introduces her workbook, Fuel Your Creative Work, a tool designed to help creatives maintain balance and joy in their work.
• Authenticity, Community, and Connection: Rebecca shares her insights on building supportive networks, embracing your unique identity, and navigating the challenges of crowdfunding two albums. Her advice is a beacon for anyone forging a nontraditional path.
• Balancing Purpose and Self-Care: From overcoming burnout to finding confidence as an introverted artist, Rebecca reflects on how small, intentional habits have shaped her journey and helped her stay grounded.

Don’t miss this powerful episode! Rebecca’s story is filled with insights for musicians, composers, and creatives seeking purpose, balance, and joy in their careers.

• 🗓 Premiere Date: Tuesday, December 3, at 8:00 PM ET
• 🎧 Available on your favorite podcast platform: https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio
• 📺 Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ia6hZhSgghI

#ThePianoPod #RebeccaHass #Creativity #Piano #Composer #SelfCompassion #BrazilianMusic #CreativeCoaching #100DayProject #Podcast

📣 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

🎥Check out the Trailer for Our Upcoming Episode: Season 5 Episode 6 feat. Dr. Artina McCain!

In this special episode of The Piano Pod, “Healing, Heritage, and Musical Transformation: Exploring Artina McCain’s Journey of Resilience, Advocacy, and Wellness,” I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Artina McCain, an award-winning pianist, Yamaha Artist, wellness advocate, and dedicated educator.

As a passionate advocate for underrepresented composers, Artina has dedicated her career to promoting diversity in classical music. I was thrilled to ask her about the challenges she faced in pushing for greater representation and the positive stories of success in her advocacy work. We also discussed her inspiring solo album Heritage, which blends spirituals, classical forms, and folk influences, spotlighting Black and underrepresented composers. 🎹✨

But that’s not all! Artina also shared some exciting news with The Piano Pod’s listeners exclusively: her next 💿 album, coming out next year, and her recent collaboration with Solange 🤯🤩

🌟 Highlights of This Episode 🌟

• 🔹 Progress on Inclusivity: Artina’s insights on her ongoing efforts to represent underrepresented and BIPOC composers in classical music.
• 🔹Showcasing Exceptionally Talented Contemporary Composers and Arrangers from Diverse Backgrounds, including Aldo Lopez Gavilan and Joseph Joubert
• 🔹 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.
• 🔹 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.

📅 Premiere Date: Tuesday, November 19, at 8:00 PM ET

🎧Via podcast platforms: https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio

📺 Via YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Vwhth2QqkLI

#ThePianoPod #ArtinaMcCain #YamahaArtist #WellnessAdvocate #ClassicalMusic #DiversityInMusic #RepresentationMatters #UnderrepresentedComposers #BlackComposers #Solange #MusicEducation #PianoMusic #MusicPodcast #Piano

📣 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

Here is the official trailer of TPP Season 5 Episode 5, "Dances, Improvisations, and Song: Exploring Mark Markham’s Legacy and Journey of Passion, Artistry, and Deep Collaborations," feat. Mark Markham.

🎉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 celebrated vocalists, emphasizing the importance of voice-piano synergy.
• ✅ His impactful role as an educator and mentor at institutions like Peabody Institute (Johns Hopkins University) and through global masterclasses, including the Art Song Preservation Society of New York
• ✅ Reflections on legacy, purpose in music, and innovative ways to connect with modern audiences. Tune in to hear Mark’s fascinating journey and his thoughts on the future of classical music!

📅 Premiere Date: Tuesday, November 12, at 8:00 PM ET

🎧 Available on your favorite podcast platform: https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio

📺 Available on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/e-KSnqcDgio

#ThePianoPod #ClassicalMusic #Podcast #Piano #MarkMarkham #JessyeNorman #Improvisation #VocalCollaboration #ClassicalPianist #MusicEducation #NewEpisode #PianoTechnique

Hello, Piano Pod friends and listeners! Today is U.S. Election Day, and we’re making a small adjustment to our usual release schedule. Instead of our biweekly episode scheduled for today, we’re taking a brief pause to encourage everyone to vote and stay engaged with the election.

Here’s what’s coming up:

• Season 5, Episode 5 with Mark Markham will now premiere on November 12th. Mark dives into the art of improvisation, piano technique, and his remarkable career as both a soloist and collaborator.
• Season 5, Episode 6, featuring Artina McCain, will follow on November 19th. Artina shares insights on advocacy, her support for underrepresented composers, and her dynamic approach to teaching and performance.

Thank you for your understanding and support! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss these exciting conversations. See you on November 12th!

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

Enjoy The Piano Pod’s Official Trailer ✅ for Season 5 Episode 4: “Kaleidoscope: Championing Women” feat. Dr. Isabel Pérez Dobarro – International Concert Pianist, Advocate for Women Composers, and Champion of Global Sustainability 🎹

We are beyond excited to welcome Isabel to our latest episode of The Piano Pod for Season 5, Episode 4!

The interview recording session took place on October 11, 2024—the very day of the release of Isabel’s new solo piano album, Kaleidoscope. She chose us, THE PIANO POD, to share the news exclusively! 🥳🎶

In this episode, Isabel dives deep into the inspiration behind Kaleidoscope, a stunning collection of works by women composers from around the world. 🌍 She shares what motivated her to bring their voices into the spotlight and the powerful message she hopes to convey through this incredible project. 🎶

We also explored:

• 🎙️ Isabel’s passion for promoting music by women composers globally
• 🎙️ The origin of the album title, Kaleidoscope, and the stories behind the pieces
• 🎙️ 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
• 🎙️ How she balances her roles as a pianist, activist, and international relations advocate

🙌 Get ready for an inspiring journey—from performing at Carnegie Hall and Teatro Colón, to using her platform to advocate for gender equality and sustainability in the arts.

Don’t miss this empowering conversation! 🎧✨

• 📅 Premiere Date: Tuesday, October 22, 8:00 PM ET
• 📺 Join the premiere via YouTube: https://youtu.be/UC5c4-Jl218🔗 Listen on your favorite podcast platform: https://linktr.ee/TPP2.0

#ThePianoPod #ClassicalMusic #Podcast #WomenInMusic #KaleidoscopeAlbum #ConcertPianist #UNAdvocate #GenderEquality #SustainabilityInMusic #IsabelPerezDobarro #UnitedNations #WomenComposers #WomenArtists