Mason Kistler

Mason Kistler is an American pianist and composer with a deep passion for classical music. His musical journey has seen him perform as a soloist, collaborate with chamber groups, and participate in international festivals. Mason received a Bachelor’s in Piano Performance at the University of South Florida, where he studied under Dr. Ghadeer Abaido. Currently, Mason is pursuing a Master's in Music at the University of Louisville under Dr. Anna Petrova. Through his studies and performances, he continues to expand his musical understanding and technical abilities, striving for continuous growth in both his artistry and teaching.​

 

Mason’s journey into music began not with the piano, but with the clarinet. Over the years, he developed his skillset which encompasses a wide range of instruments which include various members of the clarinet, saxophone, and bassoon families. This instrumental background informs his approach to both performance and composition, allowing him to bring a unique perspective to his work on the piano. In 2020, he made the decision to focus entirely on the piano, dedicating himself to refining his skills and embracing the full scope of the instrument. Despite this shift, Mason continues to enjoy playing woodwinds in his free time, maintaining his connection to the broader musical world.​

 

Among his accomplishments, Mason won 1st place in the Musicians category at the Spotlight on Talent competition in 2020. He also attended the Prague International Piano Festival in 2024, where he was awarded a special certificate of composition for his work. At the festival, Mason joined a community of musicians from around the world, sharing his passion for both performance and composition. In the summer of 2024, Mason participated in the Huntsville Young Composers Forum, where he not only won the competition but also premiered his orchestral work “Mountain Storms and Valley Peace” in Huntsville, USA, a significant milestone in his career.​

 

In addition to his performance and composition activities, Mason has participated in several masterclasses across Europe and the United States, working with esteemed pianists including Annie Cheng, Svetozar Ivanov, Stin de Cock and Kenneth Hanks. These experiences have shaped his musical growth, providing him with invaluable insights into both technique and artistic expression. Mason’s compositions reflect a broad range of influences, blending classical forms and tonal systems to modern media and imagery. With his work, he continues to explore new avenues for each and every project.​

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Mason is also passionate about sharing his knowledge of music with others. He has been teaching piano privately in his communities, covering the ages of five-years old to adults. Through his teaching, he aims to inspire the next generation of musicians, helping them develop a deep appreciation for the artistry of music while instilling a strong fundamental knowledge and while fostering their own unique creative voices.​

 

Outside of music, Mason has a variety of interests. He enjoys playing chess and other strategic games, finding that they offer a mental challenge that complements his musical discipline. He is also an avid fan of the Star Wars universe, enjoying its story, soundtrack, action, and impact on popular culture.​ With a strong commitment to his craft, Mason continues to build his career as a pianist, composer, and educator, seeking new opportunities for growth and collaboration in the musical world.