New Episode Alert: Ophelia Gordon on Authenticity, Jazz-Classical Fusion & the Legacy of Kapustin 🎶🎙️
How pianist Ophelia Gordon bridges the worlds of classical and jazz, redefines artistic identity, and champions the music of Nikolai Kapustin.
I am beyond thrilled to welcome Ophelia Gordon—concert pianist, recording artist, and one of the world’s leading interpreters of Nikolai Kapustin’s music—as a guest on The Piano Pod! Her fearless artistry and genre-defying approach make her a truly unique voice in today’s classical music scene. This captivating conversation premieres Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET.
A Journey of Artistic Discovery
For many musicians, classical and jazz exist in separate worlds—different traditions, different expectations. Yet, Ophelia has found a way to embrace both, seamlessly blending the rhythmic vitality of jazz with the technical rigor of classical music.
Her discovery of Kapustin was a revelation—here was a composer who, like her, refused to be confined by labels. His music feels like jazz but is fully notated like classical, demanding precision yet inviting freedom. For Ophelia, interpreting Kapustin was more than just learning his music—it was about finding her own artistic identity.
Born into a musical family where jazz was a constant presence, yet trained in the rigid discipline of classical piano, Ophelia spent years navigating the tension between these influences. How do you reconcile two worlds that often seem at odds? How do you break free from expectations and carve out your own artistic path?
These are the questions that have shaped her career—and the ones we explore in this episode.
Inside This Episode
The Legacy of Nikolai Kapustin – Why his music is a game-changer for both classical and jazz musicians.
Improvisation & Artistic Freedom – How Ophelia balances technical mastery with the spontaneity of jazz.
The Intersection of Jazz & Classical Music – Breaking down the walls between genres.
Finding Your Artistic Identity – Ophelia’s personal journey of self-discovery through music.
Recording & Interpreting Kapustin – Behind the scenes of her upcoming album Between the Lines.
The Role of Social Media in Music Today – How artists can connect with audiences in the digital age.
Why This Episode Matters
Ophelia’s story is one of resilience, artistic evolution, and the pursuit of true self-expression. In a world that often forces musicians into boxes, she has forged her own path, proving that music is not about choosing between jazz or classical—it’s about embracing both and allowing them to enrich each other.
Her insights on improvisation, artistry, and the evolving landscape of classical music will challenge the way you think about genre, technique, and creative identity. Whether you’re a pianist, educator, or simply someone passionate about music, this episode will inspire you.
Listen & Learn
🎧 Mark your calendars—this episode drops Tuesday, February 25, at 8:00 pm ET on YouTube and your go-to podcast platforms! Paid Substack subscribers get exclusive early access one day before the official release.
🌐 Discover more about Ophelia Gordon and her work at her website.
Join me for this fascinating discussion on authenticity, artistic identity, and the enduring legacy of Kapustin. I can’t wait for you to hear it!
With inspiration and harmony,
Yukimi Song
Executive Producer of The Piano Pod