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Now, as a key collaborator with Nordic Artists of New York (NANY), Kaitila is channeling his musical talents into uniting Nordic and Baltic artists, proving that music is not just an art form but a bridge between cultures.
A Prodigy’s Journey
Born in Helsinki in 1992, Kaitila began playing the piano at the age of six, displaying a natural affinity for the instrument that would soon blossom into a full-fledged career. His early studies at the Junior Academy of the Sibelius Academy under Dr. Hui-Ying Liu-Tawaststjerna laid the foundation for a journey that would take him across continents. By the time he won First Prize at the Köhler-Osbahr piano competition in Duisburg in 2013, it was clear that Kaitila was a musical force to be reckoned with.
His performances have since graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages, from the Wiener Saal in Salzburg to Carnegie Hall in New York., Kaitila brings a rare combination of technical mastery and emotional resonance to every performance.
A Champion of Collaboration
While Kaitila’s solo career is impressive, it’s his work as a chamber musician that truly sets him apart. A winner of national chamber music competitions in Finland, he has long understood the power of collaboration. “Music is a conversation,” he says. “When you play with others, you’re not just sharing notes—you’re sharing ideas, emotions, and stories.”
This philosophy makes him a natural fit for NANY, where he’s helping to curate and perform in True North 2025, the organization’s flagship Earth Day event. “Markus is not just a phenomenal pianist—he’s a visionary collaborator,” says NANY founder Petra Jasmiina. “His ability to connect with other artists and elevate their work is unparalleled.”
For True North 2025, Kaitila is preparing a program that blends Nordic classical traditions with contemporary compositions, creating a musical tapestry that reflects the event’s themes of unity and environmental stewardship. “Nordic music has a unique connection to nature,” he explains. “Through True North, we’re exploring that connection and inviting audiences to experience it with us.”
A Life of Learning and Teaching
Kaitila’s journey has been shaped by a relentless pursuit of excellence. After studying at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen, Germany, he earned a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Queens College and a Dual Degree of Master of Music and Advanced Certificate in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from NYU Steinhardt. Along the way, he’s participated in masterclasses with legends like Leon Fleisher, Angela Hewitt, and Alan Gilbert, absorbing insights that have enriched his artistry.
But Kaitila isn’t just a performer—he’s also a dedicated educator. As an adjunct instructor and staff pianist at NYU Steinhardt, he’s passing on his knowledge to the next generation of musicians. “Teaching keeps me grounded,” he says. “It reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place.”
A Nordic Ambassador in New York
For Kaitila, joining NANY feels like coming full circle. “As a Finnish artist living in New York, I’ve always felt a responsibility to represent my heritage,” he says. “NANY gives me the opportunity to do that on a larger scale, alongside incredible artists from across the Nordic and Baltic regions.”
His involvement in True North 2025 is a testament to this personal commitment. By weaving together classical and contemporary Nordic music, Kaitila is creating a program that honors tradition while pushing boundaries. “This isn’t just about nostalgia,” he says. “It’s about showing the world that Nordic art is alive, evolving, and deeply relevant.”
The Road Ahead
As True North 2025 approaches, Kaitila is focused on delivering a performance that will leave a lasting impression. “This event is a celebration of who we are as Nordic and Baltic artists,” he says. “It’s a chance to share our stories, our values, and our love for the natural world.”
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For audiences, Kaitila’s performances promise to be a highlight of the evening—a chance to witness one of the finest pianists of his generation at the height of his powers. For Kaitila, it’s an opportunity to give back to the community that has shaped him. “Music is my way of connecting with the world,” he says. “And through NANY, I’m connecting with something even greater: a shared vision of unity, creativity, and hope.”
Don’t miss Markus Kaitila’s breathtaking performance at True North 2025 on April 22, 2025, at the New York Estonian House. Learn more about NANY’s mission and events at www.nordicartistsofnewyork.com.
