David Kaplan Tickets

David Kaplan is an American pianist and educator known for his engaging performances, artistic leadership, and commitment to new music. A core member of Decoda, Carnegie Hall’s Affiliate Ensemble, he blends concert repertoire with contemporary commissions, bringing fresh perspectives to audiences across the United States and beyond. As Associate Professor and the inaugural Shapiro Family Chair in Piano Performance at UCLA, Kaplan combines high-caliber performance with a passion for teaching and mentorship.

Kaplan’s career blends performance, scholarly study, and collaboration. After completing his DMA at Yale in 2014 and earlier studies at UCLA, he has become a distinctive voice in American piano circles, recognized for his sensitivity to composers' voices and his imaginative programming. His work as a Fulbright Fellow (2008–2010) helped expand his perspective on global repertoire and education.

On stage, Kaplan partners with fellow artists to explore both established masterworks and new music. His discography highlights include the 2024 Decoda debut album as pianist on Bright Shiny Things, contributing to a year marked by Grammy-nominated works from Valerie Coleman’s ensemble contributions. In 2024, he released New Dances of the League of David on New Focus Recordings, weaving 15 commissioned pieces with Schumann’s Davidsbündlertänze. The duo album Vent, created with flutist Catherine Gregory, arrived in 2023 on Bright Shiny Things, expanding his collaborative footprint. In 2025–2026, Kaplan continues residencies and performances at Brown University, UCLA, Morris Museum, and other venues, keeping a busy schedule that matches his reputation for depth and versatility.