Pianist Alexander Tutunov is widely recognized as one of the most outstanding virtuosos of the former Soviet Union. He’s performed throughout Europe, China, Mexico, and the United States as a solo performer, soloist with orchestra, and on radio and television. When he’s not traveling or recording Emmy award winning soundtracks, Alexander is a Professor of Piano and Artist in Residence at Southern Oregon University.

He is a passionate musician with a fascinating life story. At the age of six, Alexander moved away from his family to study music in Moscow. We chat about studying music at a young age, influential teachers and how the trombone saved him from fighting with the Soviet Union military in Afghanistan. Alexander shares about his rehearsal process, what inspires him and how he plays in service of the music.