January 1, 2026
Three Questions for Pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko
What inspired you to pursue a career in classical music?
First and foremost, I was inspired by the joy I experience in sharing music with others. For me, the many challenging elements of a performing career, such as long, solitary practice days and a tiring traveling schedule, are made entirely worthwhile thanks to the remarkable privilege of performing for new audiences.
Undoubtedly, the support of my many wonderful mentors, especially Dr. Corey Hamm, has been instrumental to my career success, and I remain deeply indebted to all of them for their guidance and support.
What’s your routine like on concert days?
I don’t have any special rituals on performance days beyond nutritious meals, plenty of rest, and a thorough warm up!
Story continues below...
First and foremost, I was inspired by the joy I experience in sharing music with others. For me, the many challenging elements of a performing career, such as long, solitary practice days and a tiring traveling schedule, are made entirely worthwhile thanks to the remarkable privilege of performing for new audiences.
Undoubtedly, the support of my many wonderful mentors, especially Dr. Corey Hamm, has been instrumental to my career success, and I remain deeply indebted to all of them for their guidance and support.
What’s your routine like on concert days?
I don’t have any special rituals on performance days beyond nutritious meals, plenty of rest, and a thorough warm up!
Story continues below...
What are some of your interests outside of music?
Until my mid-teens, I was as passionate about my athletic pursuits as I was about playing the piano, and for many years I was a competitive skier and swimmer. I still enjoy both sports, and I try to get out for a ski whenever I return to my hometown region. I was very fortunate to grow up in a beautiful, rural part of Canada, and I find it creatively enriching to spend some solitary time in nature whenever I can!
Jaeden Izik-Dzurko makes his debut at the San Francisco Symphony in a Shenson Spotlight Series recital, January 21.
Until my mid-teens, I was as passionate about my athletic pursuits as I was about playing the piano, and for many years I was a competitive skier and swimmer. I still enjoy both sports, and I try to get out for a ski whenever I return to my hometown region. I was very fortunate to grow up in a beautiful, rural part of Canada, and I find it creatively enriching to spend some solitary time in nature whenever I can!
Jaeden Izik-Dzurko makes his debut at the San Francisco Symphony in a Shenson Spotlight Series recital, January 21.
