Presented in partnership with Mannes Prep at The New School, a pre-college music program offering comprehensive and nurturing pre-professional training
For nearly five years, The Piano Pod, an award-winning podcast, has sparked global conversations about the future of classical music—100+ episodes, 350,000+ downloads, and 3,000+ YouTube subscribers, featuring Grammy Award winners, Steinway Artists, U.N. Ambassadors, and visionary educators.
In Season 6: Creativity & Connection, we are taking the bold next step: bringing this mission from the digital space to the stage.
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM, we invite you to join us at Stiefel Hall at The New School for The Piano Pod Live in Concert—our very first live concert and conversation event. This one-hour program will feature live performances, artist interviews, and a closing panel discussion with four extraordinary pianists who are not only masters of their craft but also trailblazers shaping the future of classical music.
Why This Event Matters
At a time when conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion are more critical than ever, we as artists, educators, and community leaders must lead by example. Classical music is not only about tradition—it’s about connection, resilience, and the human stories we tell together.
By supporting this event, you will help us:
Showcase world-class performances by musicians, reshaping the future of classical music.
Create a space for authentic conversations about artistry, sustainability, and audience engagement.
Foster mentorship and community by bringing together artists, students, and audiences.
Expand access globally through professional audio/video recordings distributed on The Piano Pod’s platforms.
Your contribution ensures that classical music remains accessible, relevant, and inclusive—for today and the next generation.
Featured Artists
We are proud to bring together four extraordinary pianists whose artistry and advocacy embody Creativity & Connection:
Each artist will perform a short solo or ensemble work, followed by a conversation. The program will close with a panel discussion and audience Q&A, creating a space for inspiration and dialogue.
I, Yukimi Song, founder of The Piano Pod and a Zainichi Korean artist, will also share my perspective on bicultural identity, artistic independence, and how classical music can foster meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion.Yukimi Song - Creator of The Piano Pod
This is more than a concert—it is a statement that classical music can be a force for connection in today’s world.
Why We Need Your Support
Although Mannes Prep is generously hosting this event, The Piano Pod must independently cover production costs.
Your donation will fund:
🎥 Professional audio and video recording – $1,000
📸 Event photography – $300
🖨 Poster printing & promotion – $200
💡 Our fundraising goal is $1,500.
With fiscal sponsorship through Fractured Atlas, your donation is tax-deductible, maximizing the impact of your generosity.
How You Can Help
Make a Donation Today: Every dollar directly supports production and ensures this milestone event reaches a global audience. 💡 Please visit the “Rewards” page to see different ways to help raise funds and to start donating.
Spread the Word: Share this campaign with your friends, colleagues, and community. Every share brings us closer to our goal.
Join Us: Come experience The Piano Pod Live in Concert in person on October 4, 2025, at Stiefel Hall—free and open to the public (limited seating).
Join Us in Bringing The Piano Pod to the Stage
This event is not just about music—it’s about creativity, connection, and community. Together, we can ensure that classical music continues to thrive as a powerful, evolving force for inclusion and innovation.
✅ Donate today and make an impact.
✅ Share this campaign and help spread the word.
✅ Support the future of classical music by investing in artists who are breaking barriers and building bridges.
🎶 Let’s make this vision a reality—support The Piano Pod Live in Concert today!
Rewards
Featured
🎼 TPP Patron
Donate $100.00 or more
Amount over $40.00 is tax-deductible.
All Advocate Level perks
Your name listed in the event credits
The Piano Pod sticker set, branded pen, and a limited-edition event program signed by our guests, mailed to you.
🎵 TPP Supporter
Donate $20.00 or more
Amount over $5.00 is tax-deductible.
Personalized thank-you email
Early access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content from the event
🎶 TPP Advocate
Donate $50.00 or more
Amount over $15.00 is tax-deductible.
All Supporter Level perks
Special social media shoutout
Access to an exclusive digital event recap
The Piano Pod logo sticker set mailed to you.
🎹 TPP VIP Sponsor
Donate $250.00 or more
Amount over $150.00 is tax-deductible.
All Patron Level perks
VIP thank-you package, including:
Private Q&A session (30 min) or an optional piano lesson (30 min) with Executive Producer, Pianist, and Award-Winning Piano Teacher, Yukimi Song