The Piano Pod
The Piano Pod

The Piano Pod

Yukimi Song

Overview
Episodes

Details

...where tradition meets innovation, and together, we bring PIANO into the FUTURE.

Hey, 🎹 enthusiasts out there! My name is Yukimi, a classical pianist and educator from NYC and executive producer of The Piano Pod. The Piano Pod🎙 is a one-of-a-kind podcast that delves deep into the fascinating world of classical music, with a specific focus on the 🎹 piano. In a biweekly format, the show explores intriguing discussions with guests breaking exciting new ground in the classical music industry. The Piano Pod aims to nurture a thriving community that embraces innovative approaches to ensure classical music's relevance and vitality in today's dynamic landscape.

"How can I present the beautiful tradition of classical music to the 21st-century audience in a fun, contemporary, and engaging way?"

When I started building a piano studio in the trendy neighborhood of Downtown Manhattan in 2007 while in the NYU graduate program in piano studies, I began to ponder this question. I realized the stark difference in expectations toward classical music and music education between music professionals and the general public. Then, one of the NYU music department's professors suggested I start a podcast: the platform would allow classical musicians to address this disparity and spark conversations about audience engagement.

Finally, fast forward to 10+ years later, The Piano Pod was born in the summer of 2020. Since then, I have had the privilege of interviewing A-listers in the classical music industry: international concert pianists, composers, arrangers, digital streamers/influencers, music educators, entrepreneurs, neurodiverse specialists, and performance psychologists.

Through fascinating conversations, we have explored how classical music should continue to evolve to remain relevant to our lifestyle, society, and culture. Over the past three seasons, The Piano Pod has achieved remarkable success by reaching faithful listeners on audio platforms and viewers via YouTube.

As the show is celebrating the past season's achievements and gearing toward the new season in the fall, my mission as the Executive Producer is crystal clear: to provide a platform for classical musicians and educators to reflect and discuss ways to keep our industry robust and meaningful in this ever-changing world and move it forward in the post-pandemic era.

🔗Follow TPP on social media accounts to get the latest news about 🎹.

Thanks for listening♥️🎹

Recent Episodes

Official Trailer ✅: "Virtuoso Reimagined" feat. Sophia Agranovich, Multi-Award-Winning Virtuoso and Steinway Artist
DEC 16, 2024
Official Trailer ✅: "Virtuoso Reimagined" feat. Sophia Agranovich, Multi-Award-Winning Virtuoso and Steinway Artist
<p>🎥 <strong>Watch the Trailer for Our Final 2024 Episode feat. Sophia Agranovich! </strong></p><p>Join us for the last episode of The Piano Pod in 2024, featuring the extraordinary <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://sophiagranovich.com"><strong>Sophia Agranovich</strong></a>, proudly sponsored by<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.thecompassconcerts.com/"> <strong>The Compass Concerts</strong></a>, tomorrow, <strong>December 17, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET!</strong></p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>In this episode, we explore: </strong></p><ul><li>✨ Balancing two careers: how she kept her music alive while excelling in IT and raising a family. </li><li>✨ Her triumphant return to music, including global performances and acclaimed recordings. </li><li>✨ How stepping away gave her a fresh perspective and deepened her artistry. </li><li>✨ Insights into her passion for connecting music, wellness, and education.</li></ul><p>Sophia’s story is about reinvention—proving that talent, passion, and dedication can thrive through any career path.</p><p></p><p>🎹 Join the broadcast of this special episode this coming Tuesday, December 17 at 8:0 0pm ET, on our YouTube Channel: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/uDGhZ9EdveY">https://youtu.be/uDGhZ9EdveY</a> </p><p>🎧 The audio episode will also be available simultaneously on your go-to podcast platforms: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio">https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio</a></p><p>👉 Don’t forget to like, follow, and share this post with friends and fellow music lovers!</p><p>.</p><p>#ThePianoPod #PodcastEpisode #SophiaAgranovich #PianoMusic #ClassicalMusic #SteinwayArtist #MusicAndWellness #RediscoverPassion #ClassicalMusicPodcast</p>
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2 MIN
Season 5 Episode 7: “Crafting Creative Paths: Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion,” feat. Rebecca Hass - Composer, Pianist, Creative Coach
DEC 4, 2024
Season 5 Episode 7: “Crafting Creative Paths: Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion,” feat. Rebecca Hass - Composer, Pianist, Creative Coach
<p>📣 <strong>This Episode is Brought to You by </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.thecompassconcerts.com/index.php"><strong>The Compass Concerts</strong></a><strong>!</strong> "Start with Mindfulness, Perform with Heart: Discover The Compass Concerts' Unique Musical Experience!" </p><p>This episode, “<strong>Crafting Creative Paths - </strong>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>✨ Highlights from the Episode:</p><ul><li><strong>Discovering Brazilian Music:</strong></li><li><strong>The 100-Day Project &amp; Composing Journey</strong></li><li><strong>Exploring Creativity in Music</strong></li><li><strong>Creative Coaching &amp; Mental Health</strong></li><li><strong>Authenticity &amp; Community</strong></li></ul><p>You do not want to miss this powerful episode! </p><p><strong>[Rebecca Hass]</strong></p><ul><li>🌐 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.rebeccahass.com/">Website</a></li><li>🎹 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://rebeccahass.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a></li></ul><p><strong>[Links mentioned in the episode]</strong></p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jovisan.net/uploads/1/0/7/1/10715323/ginga.pdf">Brazilian rhythms </a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/TehBCCbfL_A?si=mu6v2iFyS4zUYmHO">Brazilian rhythms 2</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.the100dayproject.org/">#THE100DAYPROJECT</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://maraglatzel.com/">Mara Glatzel</a></li><li>Self-compassion meditations from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-practices/#guided-practices">Dr. Kristin Neff</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.lasercampaigns.com/">Laser Webber</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://kerrypolitzer.com/">Kerry Politzer</a></li></ul><p>🎵🎵 Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeBrJAY2RQ_uCgiPLui0cF-VNGzKcvkKP">HERE</a> 🎵🎵</p><p>[Meet Our Sponsor - The Compass Concerts]</p><ul><li>🌐 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://thecompassconcerts.com">Website</a></li><li>▶️<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCl-t3MaycxVIQKeeHsi_2XA"> Youtube</a></li></ul><p>[🎹🎙️ ABOUT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://thepianopod.com">THE PIANO POD</a>]</p><ul><li>❤️Show your love and support for TPP: Donate <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bit.ly/3EsvRDg">https://bit.ly/3EsvRDg</a> ❤️</li><li>Connect with us <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://linktr.ee/thepianopod">HERE</a></li></ul>
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95 MIN
Official Trailer ✅: Season 5 Episode 7, "Crafting Creative Paths - Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion" feat. Rebecca Hass, Composer & Pianists
DEC 1, 2024
Official Trailer ✅: Season 5 Episode 7, "Crafting Creative Paths - Exploring Brazilian Rhythms, Creative Coaching, and the Art of Self-Compassion" feat. Rebecca Hass, Composer & Pianists
<p>🎥 Here’s the Trailer for Season 5 Episode 7 feat. - Rebecca Hass: Pianist, Composer, Creative Coach, and Musicians’ Mental Health Advocate! </p><p>The Piano Pod’s upcoming episode, “<strong>Crafting Creative Paths,” </strong> 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.</p><p>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.</p><p>✨ Highlights from the Episode:</p><ul><li>Discovering Brazilian Music: Rebecca fell in love with Brazilian rhythms through influences that transformed her artistry. Her albums, <em>Florescer</em> and <em>Bright Little Worlds</em>, capture the wit, lyricism, and joy inspired by these vibrant sounds. She also shares an excerpt from <em>Gingando</em> and offers a quick lecture exploring the diversity of Brazilian music.</li><li>The 100-Day Project &amp; 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, <em>Bright Little Worlds</em>, featuring 22 genre-blending pieces.</li><li>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.</li><li>Creative Coaching &amp; Mental Health: Learn about Rebecca’s coaching philosophy, which focuses on self-compassion, energy management, and realistic to-do lists. She introduces her workbook, <em>Fuel Your Creative Work</em>, a tool designed to help creatives maintain balance and joy in their work.</li><li>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.</li><li>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.</li></ul><p>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.</p><ul><li>🗓 Premiere Date: Tuesday, December 3, at 8:00 PM ET</li><li>🎧 Available on your favorite podcast platform:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio"> https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio</a></li><li>📺 Also available on YouTube:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ThePianoPod"> </a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/Ia6hZhSgghI">https://youtu.be/Ia6hZhSgghI</a> </li></ul><p>#ThePianoPod #RebeccaHass #Creativity #Piano #Composer #SelfCompassion #BrazilianMusic #CreativeCoaching #100DayProject #Podcast</p>
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2 MIN
Season 5 Episode 6: "Healing, Heritage, & Musical Transformation" -.Yamaha Artist, Dr. Artina McCain
NOV 20, 2024
Season 5 Episode 6: "Healing, Heritage, & Musical Transformation" -.Yamaha Artist, Dr. Artina McCain
<p>📣 <strong>This Episode is Brought to You by The Art Song Preservation Society of New York (ASPSNY)!</strong> "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 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.artsongpreservationsocietyny.org/">HERE</a>. </p><p>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. </p><p>🌟 Highlights of This Episode 🌟</p><ul><li>Progress on Inclusivity: Artina’s insights on post-2020 efforts to represent underrepresented and BIPOC composers in classical music.</li><li>Overcoming Barriers: Advocating for minority composers and navigating challenges in traditional classical music spaces.</li><li>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.</li><li>Musical Heritage: Showcasing American composers in her album Heritage (2020) and a preview of her exciting upcoming release.</li><li>Healing Through Music: Overcoming a 6-year performance hiatus with the help of Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) and reengineering her playing for wellness.</li></ul><p>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.</p><p>[About Dr. Artina McCain]</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://artinamccain.com">Website</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/artinamccain">Instagram</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/iPPv7UhgjsY?si=NewhulcVl_3zqbwO">Pan Con Timba</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/UYiwdhforCs?si=9lMT8bAI1eUf09w7">Minstrels</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/4PzqPouBjC4?si=rdeAdd8yIjIq91Iv">Ballade no.2 in F Major by Chopin</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/WmtFPM6ghzs?si=vkvAx6dVnKEkPv0F">Fantasie in C Minor by Mozart</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsyI_2qrtFQ">Were You There arr. Joseph Joubert</a></li></ul><p>[Other Links]</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001jc8m">BBC Podcast Sideways Episode 40</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.gatewaysmusicfestival.org/">Check Out Gateways Music Festival</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://thecontinuummethod.com/">The Continuum Method</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://aldomusica.com/">Aldo López-Gavilán</a> (Composer)</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/josephjoubert88keys">Joseph Joubert</a> (Composer/Arranger)</li></ul><p>Check out all the piano music mentioned in Season 5 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeBrJAY2RQ_uCgiPLui0cF-VNGzKcvkKP">HERE</a></p>
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87 MIN
Official Trailer ✅: Season 5 Episode 6: "Healing, Heritage, & Musical Transformation" -.Yamaha Artist, Dr. Artina McCain
NOV 18, 2024
Official Trailer ✅: Season 5 Episode 6: "Healing, Heritage, & Musical Transformation" -.Yamaha Artist, Dr. Artina McCain
<p>🎥Check out the Trailer for Our Upcoming Episode: Season 5 Episode 6 feat. Dr. Artina McCain! </p><p>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.</p><p>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. 🎹✨</p><p>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 🤯🤩</p><p>🌟 Highlights of This Episode 🌟</p><ul><li>🔹 Progress on Inclusivity: Artina’s insights on her ongoing efforts to represent underrepresented and BIPOC composers in classical music.</li><li>🔹Showcasing Exceptionally Talented Contemporary Composers and Arrangers from Diverse Backgrounds, including Aldo Lopez Gavilan and Joseph Joubert</li><li>🔹 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.</li><li>🔹 Healing Through Music: Overcoming a 6-year performance hiatus with the help of Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) and reengineering her playing for wellness.</li></ul><p>🎶 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.</p><p>📅 Premiere Date: Tuesday, November 19, at 8:00 PM ET</p><p>🎧Via podcast platforms:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio"> https://linktr.ee/ThePianoPodAudio</a></p><p>📺 Via YouTube channel:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/Vwhth2QqkLI"> https://youtu.be/Vwhth2QqkLI</a></p><p></p><p>#ThePianoPod #ArtinaMcCain #YamahaArtist #WellnessAdvocate #ClassicalMusic #DiversityInMusic #RepresentationMatters #UnderrepresentedComposers #BlackComposers #Solange #MusicEducation #PianoMusic #MusicPodcast #Piano</p>
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2 MIN