Simon Karakulidi, piano

Simon Karakulidi is a Siberian-born pianist, educated in the United States. He is interested in creating conceptual programs that illustrate specific artistic themes. In today’s program, we will hear two pieces that couldn’t be more different, yet approach the same goal: to explore the capabilities of the individual. Chopin’s op. 45 Prelude is a study in how deep one can delve into the psyche, while the Liszt Sonata defines the heroic potential of mankind, extended to its culmination in this masterpiece of formal innovation. 

Still in the beginning of his career, Simon is active on the international competition scene. Last year, amidst the pandemic, he managed to win first prizes at the Hellam Concerto Competition and Lewisville Concerto Competition. Among his other recent accomplishments are top prizes at the Olga Kern International Piano Competition (Albuquerque, NM), the Washington International Piano Competition (Washington, D.C.) the Wideman International Piano Competition (Shreveport, LA), and the International Keyboard Institute and Festival in New York City.   

Simon is a proud graduate of Park University where he studied with Stanislav Ioudenitch, and is currently pursuing his Master’s degree at the Yale School of Music under the guidance of Wei-Yi Yang. Previously, he studied at Moscow’s Central Music School with Mira Marchenko.

Don’t miss Sophia Stoyanovich and Derek Wang 

next week on the

Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concerts!

Wednesday January 12, 12:15pm