The Piano Pod

Yukimi Song
The Piano Pod Podcast

...where tradition meets innovation, and together, we bring PIANO into the 21st Century. 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♥️🎹

  1. Season 5 Episode 1: "Transcendent Musical Vision" feat. Concert Pianist/Educator, Dr. Sara Davis Buechner

    4 DAYS AGO

    Season 5 Episode 1: "Transcendent Musical Vision" feat. Concert Pianist/Educator, Dr. Sara Davis Buechner

    This episode is brought to you by Keys 2 Success, bringing classical music opportunities to Newark and its surrounding suburban communities Visit their website to learn more. We’re kicking off the new season of Joy and Authenticity with an incredible guest—renowned pianist and educator, Dr. Sara Davis Buechner! 🎹✨ In this episode, titled "Transcendent Musical Vision," we dive deep into Dr. Buechner’s extraordinary 40-plus-year journey as a trailblazing artist, discussing her brilliant piano technique, unique musical interpretations, and advocacy for lesser-known composers and the LGBTQ+ community. 🌟 Highlights from the episode include: Her reflections on celebrating 40 years at Merkin Hall since her NYC debut 🎶Her dedication to lifelong learning, constantly exploring new compositions by lesser-known and contemporary composersHow she balances technical precision with expressive depth in her performancesThe lifelong process of mastering piano technique through the teachings of Alberto Jonás, and how continuous growth shapes her artistryThe importance of sight-reading skills, which she honed as a Juilliard student, reading through piano scores in alphabetical order 📚Candid reflections on being a transgender artist and advocate, and how the classical music community has evolved in terms of diversity and inclusion 🏳️‍⚧️This is a conversation packed with wisdom, authenticity, and joy that you won’t want to miss! 💫 💬 Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments and leave a review! [About Dr. Sara Davis Buechner] 🌐 Website 📺 YouTube 📘 Facebook 🎧 Spotify Celebrated for her "intelligence, integrity, and technical prowess" (New York Times) and "thoughtful artistry" (Washington Post), Dr. Sara Davis Buechner is one of the most original concert pianists of our time. A prizewinner at the Queen Elisabeth and Tschaikowsky Competitions, she has performed with renowned orchestras like the New York Philharmonic and graced iconic venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. A dedicated educator at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music, Dr. Buechner is also a proud advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, using her platform to inspire inclusion and equity within the classical music world. [ ABOUT THE PIANO POD} Check out our Season 5 Intro Episode HERE. ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate HERE❤️❤️ 🎬 Credits: Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor)🌐 Official Site📱 Connect with us on social media

    1h 45m
  2. Trailer for Season 5 Episode 1 "Transcendent Musical Vision" feat. Dr. Sara Davis Buechner

    5 DAYS AGO

    Trailer for Season 5 Episode 1 "Transcendent Musical Vision" feat. Dr. Sara Davis Buechner

    The Trailer for Season 5 Episode 1 of The Piano Pod 🎙 feat. Dr. Sara Davis Buechner is Here! We’re kicking off The Piano Pod’s new season focused on Joy and Authenticity with an amazing guest—renowned pianist and educator, Dr. Sara Davis Buechner! In this episode, we dive into Dr. Buechner’s extraordinary 40+ year journey as a trailblazing artist. We explore her brilliant piano technique, unique interpretations, and advocacy for lesser-known composers and the LGBTQ+ community. Episode Highlights: Reflections on celebrating 40 years since her NYC debut at Merkin HallHer dedication to lifelong learning and discovering new works by lesser-known composersBalancing technical precision with expressive depth in her performancesMastering piano technique through the teachings of Alberto Jonás and how it continues to shape her artistryHow sight-reading skills, honed during her time at Juilliard, helped her grow as a musician Candid reflections on being a transgender artist and advocate for diversity and inclusion in classical musicThis episode is packed with wisdom, authenticity, and joy that you won’t want to miss! ✅ Premiere Date: Tuesday, September 10, at 8:00pm ET✅ Listen on Your favorite podcast platform: https://linktr.ee/TPP2.0✅ Watch on Our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/TXarT4CbdHs?si=JD0NDnXDZZzCusiv About Dr. Sara Davis Buechner: Celebrated for her "intelligence, integrity, and technical prowess" (New York Times), Dr. Buechner is a celebrated concert pianist and educator. She has performed with orchestras like the New York Philharmonic and at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall. As a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, she continues to inspire change in the classical music world. #ThePianoPod #SaraDavisBuechner #ClassicalMusic #PodcastSeason5 #AuthenticityAndJoy #Piano #LGBTQAdvocate #MusicEducation #MerkinHall #PodcastCommunity #NewEpisode #Pianist #YamahaArtist #ConcertPianist

    3 min
  3. Season 4 Finale: "Conquer Performance Anxiety," feat. Dr. Jon Skidmore, Performance Psychologist

    JUN 11

    Season 4 Finale: "Conquer Performance Anxiety," feat. Dr. Jon Skidmore, Performance Psychologist

    🥹How can we shift the cultural perception of performance anxiety from a personal weakness to a natural aspect of the human experience, deserving of compassion and support? Welcome to the Season 4 Finale, titled “Conquer Performance Anxiety” with a guest Dr. Jon Skidmore! We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Jon Skidmore, Performance Psychologist, back to The Piano Pod! Many of you may remember his insightful contribution to our very first episode back in September 2020. It feels truly fitting to bring him back as we wrap up this season. In this episode, we cover: ✅ The Importance of Mental Skills Training for Musicians✅ Understanding Performance Anxiety✅ The Correct Definition of “Mindset”✅ “Stage Fright is Not an Enemy nor a Disease; It’s a Skill Deficit!”✅ From Traditional Practice to Brain Science and Flow✅ Strategies for Music Educators to Help Their StudentsAnd much more! 👏👏👏 Dr. Skidmore will explore the topic of performance anxiety with compassion, drawing on insights from neuroscience and psychology. This is an episode you won't want to miss! [About Dr. Jon Skidmore] 🌐Website📘His Book: Conquer Anxiety📚His Course: Musicians’ Path to Peak Performance, starting in November📝Register to Join Dr. Skidmore’s Free Monthly Workshops on 2nd Wednesdays at 9:00 am MT or 3rd Wednesdays at 5:00 pm MT 📆 Schedule a 30 min Discovery Call with Dr. Skidmore.👉 If you haven't checked out our first episode, listen HERE.[The Piano Pod🎙️] Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor)🌐 TPP Official Site📱 Connect with us on Social Media👉👉👉 NOMINATE YOURSELF OR SOMEONE IN OUR INDUSTRY TO BE A GUEST ON THE PIANO POD! #Podcast #MusicEducation #ClassicalMusic #PianoPerformance #PerformanceAnxiety #MentalSkills #MusicTeachers #MusicStudents #StageFright #BrainScience #FlowState #MusicPodcast #PianoLife #Pianist #MusicCommunity #SeasonFinale #TuneIn #PodcastPremiere #MusicInsights #ArtistSupport

    1h 30m
  4. Trailer for Season 4 Finale feat. Dr. Jon Skidmore, Performance Psychologist

    JUN 10

    Trailer for Season 4 Finale feat. Dr. Jon Skidmore, Performance Psychologist

    🎥 Here is the Trailer for Our Upcoming Episode, "Conquer Performance Anxiety - Stage Fright is Not an Enemy nor a Disease; It’s a Skill Deficit!" Get ready for our upcoming episode with Dr. Skidmore who is joining us again for The Piano Pod’s season finale! Many of you may remember his insightful contribution to our very first episode back in September 2020. It feels truly fitting to bring him back as we wrap up this season. Our Executive Producer and Host, Yukimi Song, has dreamed of creating a piano podcast since her grad school days at NYU in 2008. A professor suggested the idea back then, but it wasn’t until the COVID lockdown that she finally took the plunge. The sudden lifestyle changes caused her students to struggle with performance anxiety, sparking her mission to help them. Her journey led her to an inspiring article in Piano Magazine where Dr. Skidmore’s work was featured. Impressed by his methods and research, Yukimi reached out to him, and their enlightening conversation inspired the launch of this podcast. She wanted to share these valuable insights with fellow pianists and music educators. And now, here we are, coming full circle. In this episode, we cover: ✅ The Importance of Mental Skills Training for Musicians✅ Understanding Performance Anxiety✅ The Correct Definition of “Mindset”✅ From Traditional Practice to Brain Science and Flow✅ Strategies for Music Educators to Help Their StudentsAnd much more! 👏👏👏 Dr. Skidmore will explore the topic of performance anxiety with compassion, drawing on insights from neuroscience and psychology. This is an episode you won't want to miss! 📆 Mark your calendar for Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 8:00pm ET to catch the premiere on The Piano Pod’s YouTube Channel.🎧 The audio podcast will also be available on Tuesday, June 11, at 8:00pm ET: https://linktr.ee/TPP2.0🎹 About Dr. Jon Skidmore: WebsiteArticle👉 If you haven't checked out our first episode, listen HERE. 🎬 Credits: Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor)🌐 Official Site📱 Connect with us on Social Media#Podcast #MusicEducation #ClassicalMusic #PianoPerformance #PerformanceAnxiety #MentalSkills #MusicTeachers #MusicStudents #StageFright #BrainScience #FlowState #MusicPodcast #PianoLife #Pianist #MusicCommunity #SeasonFinale #TuneIn #PodcastPremiere #MusicInsights #ArtistSupport

    3 min
  5. Season 4 Episode 19: Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Megan Ihnen, Mezzo-Soprano & Executive Director of the Live Music Project

    MAY 28

    Season 4 Episode 19: Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Megan Ihnen, Mezzo-Soprano & Executive Director of the Live Music Project

    Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Live Music Project: Bridging Musicians and Audiences, Empowering Next-Generation Innovators Get ready for an exhilarating conversation with Megan Inen, celebrated Mezzo-Soprano and Executive Director of the Live Music Project During our conversation, we focused on the Live Music Project: its concept, mission, and significant impact and reach within the music industry and among global communities of music lovers. We discussed how the platform connects classical musicians with broader audiences and explored the topic of audience engagement — a subject that has captivated Piano Pod listeners from the beginning. In this episode, we delved into the overview of the Live Music Project ✅ Bridging the Gap Between Musicians and Audiences✅ Becoming a Hub for Orchestras, Ensembles, Choirs and Independent Musicians✅ Inviting Novice Listeners with the “Spontaneous Free Tickets Program”We also discussed Megan’s Multifaceted Entrepreneurial Career: ✅ Megan’s Celebrated Career as a Mezzo-Soprano✅ Helping Fellow Musicians Develop Entrepreneurial Skills through Her Coaching Business✅ Nurturing the Next Gen of Musical Innovators Through Her Role in the Peabody LAUNCHPadAnd much more! 📺 The video version of this episode is available on our YouTube channel! [ABOUT THE LIVE MUSIC PROJECT] 🌐 Visit HERE to learn more!📱 Follow LMP on Instagram[MEGAN IHNEN] 🌐 Visit HERE to learn more!📱Connect with Megan on Instagram:🎵Find Megan on Spotify[ABOUT THE PIANO POD] Greetings, piano lovers! I'm Yukimi Song, your host from NYC. Every fortnight, join me as I delve deep into the world of PIANO with groundbreakers from the classical music industry. Our mission? To provide a platform for classical musicians and educators to reflect and discuss how to keep our industry robust and relevant in this rapidly changing world and move it forward in the post-pandemic era. ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate https://bit.ly/3EsvRDg❤️❤️🎬 Credits: Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor)🌐 Official Site📱 Connect with us on social media

    1h 30m
  6. Trailer for Season 4 Episode 19: Megan Ihnen, Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Live Music Project: Bridging Musicians and Audiences, Empowering Next Generation Innovators "

    MAY 27

    Trailer for Season 4 Episode 19: Megan Ihnen, Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Live Music Project: Bridging Musicians and Audiences, Empowering Next Generation Innovators "

    🎥 Here is the Trailer for Our Upcoming Episode, "Connecting Contemporary Audiences – Live Music Project: Bridging Musicians and Audiences, Empowering Next Generation Innovators with Megan Ihnen" Get ready for our upcoming episode with Megan Ihnen, Mezzo-Soprano and Executive Director of the Live Music Project, for an exhilarating conversation! During our conversation, we delved into the Live Music Project's significant impact and reach within the music industry and among global communities of music lovers. We discussed how the platform connects classical musicians with broader audiences and explored the topic of audience engagement — a subject that has captivated Piano Pod listeners from the beginning. In this episode, we focused on the overview of the Live Music Project ✅ Bridging the Gap Between Musicians and Audiences✅ Becoming a Hub for Orchestras, Ensembles, Choirs and Independent Musicians✅ Inviting Novice Listeners with the “Spontaneous Free Tickets Program”We also discussed Megan’s Multifaceted Entrepreneurial Career: ✅ Megan’s Celebrated Career as a Mezzo-Soprano✅ Helping Fellow Musicians Develop Entrepreneurial Skills through Her Coaching Business✅ Nurturing the Next Gen of Musical Innovators Through Her Role in the Peabody LAUNCHPadAnd much more! 📆 Mark your calendar for May 28, 2024 — you won't want to miss this fascinating episode with Megan Ihnen! 📺 Catch the premiere on The Piano Pod’s YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/iM6AP_YRpw0?si=QUBCkCWcNUhgftUq 🎧 Subscribe to The Piano Pod on Your Favorite Podcast Platform: https://linktr.ee/TPP2.0 🎻 About the Live Music Project – The Live Music Project is dedicated to making live classical music performances more accessible to a broader audience. It aims to connect people with local live classical music events through a comprehensive, user-friendly online platform that lists concerts, recitals, and other musical events. The project often focuses on community engagement, fostering a vibrant cultural scene, and supporting musicians and composers by promoting their performances and helping to build audiences for live classical music. Visit https://www.livemusicproject.org/ to learn more! 🎹 About Megan Ihnen – Megan Ihnen, a "new music force of nature," is an acclaimed mezzo-soprano and advocate for composers. As Executive Director of the Live Music Project, she enhances the classical music scene's vibrancy and accessibility. She also teaches the "Breakthrough Curriculum" at Peabody Institute, nurturing future musical innovators. Passionate about creative placemaking and audience development, Megan forges impactful cultural partnerships, enriching communities and expanding the arts' societal impact. Visit https://meganihnen.com/ to learn more! 🎬 Credits: Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor) 🌐 Official Site 📱 Connect with us on Social Media #podcast #podcaster #classicalmusicindustry #pianomusic #audienceengagment #concertcalendar #nonprofit #entrepreneur #classicalmusic #classicalmusician #classicalconcert #concertartist #artist #piano #pianist #concertprogram

    3 min
  7. Season 4 Episode 18: Keys to Identity - A Profound Conversation with Grammy Award-Winning Steinway Pianist, Kristhyan Benitez

    MAY 14

    Season 4 Episode 18: Keys to Identity - A Profound Conversation with Grammy Award-Winning Steinway Pianist, Kristhyan Benitez

    Get ready for an exhilarating conversation with Kristhyan Benitez, a Grammy-winning concert pianist and esteemed Steinway Artist known for his mastery of Latin American music, for our upcoming episode! In our discussion, we delved into Kristhyan’s impressive career accomplishments, exploring his numerous stellar awards and recognitions, and examining how his diverse identity shapes his creative journey. In this revealing interview, we'll touch upon ✅ Kristhyan's critically acclaimed third studio album, "Latin American Classics," which clinched the Latin Grammy for "Best Classical Album" in 2021. ✅ His Passion for Piano Exploration through Improvisation: insights into his creative process when approaching improvisation in both studio and live settings. ✅ Collaborations with Renowned Figures, Spanning from Legendary Conductors to Latin American Music Icons. ✅ The Influence of Identity Complexity on Artistic Expression and Career Trajectory. ✅ His exciting venture with his alter-ego, "Benitez," experimenting with electro-acoustic music. And much more! 🎧 The audio episode of this fun episode will be split into 2 parts. Part 1 will be available on your favorite podcasting platform simultaneously with the YouTube premiere. [ABOUT KRISTHYAN BENITEZ] 🌐Website 🎵Kristhyan’s Grammy-Award Winning Album, "Latin American Classics" under the Steinway and Sons label 🎵Kristhyan’s Grammy-Nominated Album, "Afro Cuban Dances" 📱Kristhyan’s Instagram Accounts: https://www.instagram.com/kristhyan and https://www.instagram.com/benitezsounds/ [ABOUT THE PIANO POD] Greetings, piano lovers! I'm Yukimi Song, your host from NYC. Every fortnight, join me as I delve deep into the world of PIANO with groundbreakers from the classical music industry. Our mission? To provide a platform for classical musicians and educators to reflect and discuss how to keep our industry robust and relevant in this rapidly changing world and move it forward in the post-pandemic era. ❤️❤️ Show your love and support for TPP: Donate HERE❤️❤️ 🎬 Credits: Yukimi Song (Executive Producer/Writer & A/V Editor) 🌐 Official Site 📱 Connect with us #podcast #podcaster #classicalmusicindustry #pianomusic #steinwayartist #kristhyanbenitez #latinamericanmusic #latingrammys #grammyawardwinner #pianist #concertpianist #recordingartist #piano #venezuelanmusic #venezuela #latinamerica #classicalpiano #classicalmusic

    1h 31m

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

...where tradition meets innovation, and together, we bring PIANO into the 21st Century. 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♥️🎹

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada