I have been playing piano since the age of four. My mom often tells the story that what prompted her to sign me up for lessons was my fascination with Frederic Chopin’s music. We used to listen to his pieces in the car, and she says I would hum them almost perfectly—which convinced her that I was destined to play piano. This is one of those instances where, though I hate to admit it, she was right.
While I’ve come to appreciate many composers over the years, my two favorites remain Chopin and Sergei Rachmaninoff. My teacher, Ronn Yedidia, has played an instrumental role in shaping not only my playing, but also my curiosity about their personal and professional lives. Learning about who they were—beyond the music—has deepened my connection to their work.
It is truly a privilege to be able to play their pieces.
Watch Nathan Zachary Lyubarsky perform Moment Musicaux Op. 16 No.4 by Sergei Rachmaninoff on the piano for the 2026 Spring Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.