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🎶 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]

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#Kapustin #Jazz #ClassicalPiano #Pianists #ClassicalPianists #JazzPianist #MusicIdentity #Improvisation