Karina Maucha Cohen

Karina Maucha Cohen is a distinguished Brazilian-born pianist renowned for her versatile talents in performance, teaching, and arts advocacy. With a rich educational background including a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the Hartt School of Music and a Performance Diploma in Early Music from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Karina has developed a profound expertise that spans classical and early music.

Karina’s musical journey is marked by her dynamic performances in the United States, Asia, and South America. Her commitment to promoting Brazilian music globally has not only enhanced cultural exchange but also enriched her as a performer and mentor.

In 2017, as part of her tour in Asia, Karina gave a lecture and masterclass at the prestigious Shanghai Conservatory. This tour also included her participation in the Silk Road Festival, further highlighting her role in international cultural exchanges.

As an educator, Karina serves on the faculty of the Young Pianists Program at Indiana University where she nurtures young talent, preparing her students for successful careers in music. Her students have consistently achieved accolades in national and international competitions, having received more than 30 prizes from 2021-2024, a testament to her effective teaching methods and dedication.

In 2022, Karina was honored with the PL Excellence of Teaching Award at the Piano Star International Competition, accolades that recognize her contributions to music education and performance excellence. Her success continued through 2023 and 2024, securing multiple awards at the Great Composers Competition for her students’ performances of works by Bach, Bartok, Chopin, Kabalevsky, Schumann, and Mozart.

Karina’s influence extends beyond the stage and classroom. In 2024, she delivered a lecture on Piano Competitions to the Pedagogy class at Indiana University, and led a masterclass for the MTNA Bloomington Chapter, further solidifying her role as a thought leader in music education. That same year, she also served as a judge at the MTNA State Competition in Wisconsin, showcasing her expertise in evaluating emerging musical talents.

Additionally, Karina has participated in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with Hewlett Packard on a study investigating music and human behavior, which highlights her commitment to exploring the intersection of music and science.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Karina is a dedicated advocate for the arts, continually engaged in initiatives that promote musical education and appreciation among diverse communities. Whether through performance, teaching, or research, Karina Maucha Cohen remains a pivotal figure in the classical music landscape, inspiring a new generation of musicians and music lovers alike.