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The Piano Pod - a global hub for innovation, education, and connection in classical piano musicAuthor: Yukimi Song
...where tradition meets innovation. Together, we bring PIANO into the FUTURE.a global hub for innovation, education, and connection in classical piano musicHey, 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 l Language: en Genres: Arts, Music, Music Interviews, Performing Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Joy Luck Trio -- Groundbreaking Pipa-Erhu-Piano Trio
Episode 16
Tuesday, 21 April, 2026
In this episode of The Piano Pod, we welcome Joy Luck Trio — a newly formed ensemble bringing together pianist Donna Weng Friedman, pipa virtuoso Gao Hong, and erhu virtuoso Karen Han-Ottosson.Together, these three Chinese-American artists unite piano, pipa, and erhu in a rare chamber collaboration rooted in heritage and shaped by contemporary expression.In this conversation, we explore how the trio first came together, the histories and sound worlds of the pipa and erhu, what makes these instruments distinct from Western strings, and the remarkable artistic journeys that led each member to this moment.We also discuss Gao Hong’s expansive career as a pipa virtuoso and composer, Karen Han’s work on major Hollywood soundtracks, Donna’s recent creative accomplishments, and the trio’s artistic vision, repertoire, and the origin of the name Joy Luck Trio.This episode is about identity, reinvention, artistry, and the excitement of building something new after decades of achievement.📖 Read the Meet Our Guest Blog🌐 Joy Luck Trio Facebook🌐 Gao Hong (Pipa Virtuoso, Composer)🌐 Karen Han-Ottosson (Erhu Virtuoso)🌐 Donna Weng Friedman (Pianist, Filmmaker)📱 Follow The Piano Pod💖 Become a VIP Member / Unlock Exclusive Content https://thepianopod.substack.com🎵 Sounds of Inspiration (all the music mentioned in Season 6: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeBrJAY2RQ_uqBAHXTkMwM4nISe9vxvDa📫 Join Our Newsletter https://thepianopod.substack.com/subscribe🌐 Website https://thepianopod.com🔗 All Links https://linktr.ee/thepianopod🎧 Available on YouTube and all podcast platforms. Subscribe for more conversations on creativity, artistry, and the future of classical music.
