Ukrainian-born Nikolay Kapustin (1937-2020) was one of Russia’s most famous modern-day composers. His attempts to synthesize jazz and classical techniques give his music a sound that sets it apart. In his Zoom talk, Kapustin expert Thomas Ang explores the history and development of that style and discusses with the composer’s son Anton Kapustin, professor of physics at Caltech, how Kapustin’s work differs from other composers who have tried to tie the two genres together.
Thomas Ang has won prizes for his performances of Beethoven, Frederick Delius, Arthur Bliss and the contemporary piano repertoire, and has been praised for his thoughtful and critical programming and excellent technique. He has also earned recognition as a specialist in the music of Nikolay Kapustin, having played and conducted premieres of his compositions in the UK, US, Singapore, Australia, and elsewhere. In his chamber groups he maintains a strong interest in contemporary music (Duo Ex Libris) and music written by women composers (Scordatura Collective), as well as obscure and neglected composers of the last two centuries. His performances with various groups have led him to Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
Following the footsteps of his teacher Hamish Milne, he has also embarked on a deep exploration of the music of Nikolay Medtner. Off the concert stage, Thomas works as an opera répétiteur and ballet pianist, and is editing Kapustin's music for Schott Music. He sometimes accompanies and improvises for silent film, appearing at various festivals and events. Thomas also plays the violin, and writes poetry and piano transcriptions of songs and symphonies.
