Michael Gurt

Michael Gurt is the Paula G. Manship Distinguished Professor of Piano at Louisiana State University's School of Music. A renowned pianist, he has won prestigious awards including First Prize at the Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition (1982) and prizes in Pretoria and Sydney. He has performed as a soloist with major orchestras such as the Chicago Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, and Capetown Symphony, and appeared in iconic venues like Alice Tully Hall and Attaturk Cultural Center.

• Educational Background:
  • University of Michigan
  • Juilliard School
• Notable Roles:
  • Piano Mentor at National Music Festival (Chestertown, MD)
  • Chair of Piano Department at Sewanee Summer Music Festival (1987–2007)
  • Chair of Louisiana Music Teachers Association
  • Faculty at Tunghai University summer seminars (Taichung, Taiwan)
• Artistic Collaborations:
  • Takacs String Quartet
  • Cassatt String Quartet
• Recordings:
  • Naxos, Centaur, and Redwood labels

His research and professional activities span global performance tours, chamber music festivals, and pedagogical leadership. Awards reflect his competitive excellence in piano performance, while his recordings and jury roles highlight his influence in classical music circles.