A native of Moscow, Russia, Dr. Maria Lyapkova has appeared at international music festivals
including the Aspen Music Festival & School (United States), Spotlight on Young Musicians
(France), and the Music of Norway (Norway/Russia). An accomplished collaborative pianist, she
has performed with principals of leading orchestras such as the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra,
the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and The Bolshoi Theatre. Maria has previously held
collaborative pianist positions at a number of institutions including Stephen F. Austin State
University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and The Young Actors Musical Theatre of
Moscow.
A pianist, keyboardist, and educator, Dr. Lyapkova feels equally at home performing on modern
piano and period instruments including harpsichord and fortepiano. Her experience and
knowledge encompass a large repertoire with a special interest in historical performance and new
music. In continuing her doctoral research project, Maria made the first recording of the sonatas
for keyboard and obligato violin by German composer A. F. Titz on a historical fortepiano. As a
proponent of new music, she has worked with prominent composers such as Gunther Schuller,
Joseph Schwantner, and Bair Dondokov.
Dr. Lyapkova performs guest artist recitals and presents masterclasses for piano and
collaborative piano across the country. Her previous engagements include Northern Kentucky
University, University of Central Florida, and the University of Tampa. A passionate teacher,
Maria is dedicated to guiding and educating young musicians. Many of her students have
received honors and awards at district and state festivals. In addition, she is an active member of
the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) and participates as a judge for local festivals
and competitions.
Maria Lyapkova received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Collaborative Piano from The
University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Music degree in Piano Performance and Historical
Performance from the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory.