Laura Kargul

Laura Kargul is a Professor of Music/Piano and Director of Keyboard Studies at the University of Southern Maine (USM), housed within the Osher School of Music under the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. A renowned concert pianist since age 13, she has performed internationally, including solo recitals in Europe, the West Indies, and the U.S., collaborating with ensembles like the Lark Quartet and Aspen Music Festival. Her interpretations of Liszt’s works are particularly celebrated, with performances on his original Bechstein piano at the Liszt-Haus in Weimar.

• Education: Doctorate in Piano Performance from University of Michigan (studied under Leon Fleisher and Theodore Lettvin).

Research interests focus on piano technique, healthy performance practices, and chamber music collaboration. She is a sought-after lecturer for organizations like the European Piano Teachers Association and National Music Teachers Association. Her students have gained admission to prestigious institutions such as Indiana University and Eastman School of Music.

Awardee of USM’s Faculty Senate Award for teaching, she has also recorded a Grammy-produced solo CD of Liszt and Ravel transcriptions. Collaborations with violinist Ronald Lantz since 2010 highlight her commitment to duo performances.