Maria Kaushansky is a Russian-Canadian classically trained pianist, whose music blends elegance, emotion, and intention. Based in New York City, she brings her unique voice to both the jazz stage and the ballet studio.
ABOUT MARIA
Bridging Ballet and Jazz
With a deep foundation in classical training and nearly two decades accompanying ballet classes in Canada and the United States, Maria has developed a rare sensitivity to movement, nuance, and mood. Her ability to improvise and adapt in real time has made her a trusted musical collaborator in both the ballet and jazz worlds—creating performances that feel personal, alive, and deeply connected.
A Presence on Stage
Maria performs regularly at many of New York City’s most beloved venues, including The Django, Knickerbocker Bar and Grill, Flatiron Room, Parker’s NYC, Nublu, The Campbell Bar, Zero Bond, the Yale Club, Penrose Bar, and Sweet Afton. She currently holds weekly residencies at the the IVY Room at Park Avenue Hotel and Back Bar at Eventi Hotel in Chelsea, and has previously held long-term residencies at iconic spots like Gotham Restaurant, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Le Petit Parisien Supper Club and Adalya.
Whether appearing as a solo pianist or with her jazz trio, Maria’s performances blend improvisation, storytelling, and soul. She has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed musicians such as Cameron Brown, Conrad Korsch, Dave Ambrosio, Tiger Okoshi, Anthony Pinciotti, Tony Jefferson, and vocalists Lee Taylor and Marieme. With her signature warmth and sensitivity, Maria continues to shape New York’s live music scene one performance at a time.
A Trusted Voice in the Ballet World
Since 2006, Maria has worked as a ballet accompanist for institutions like The Juilliard School, Youth America Grand Prix, National Ballet of Canada and the School of American Ballet. Known for her ability to respond intuitively to dancers in real time, she is a sought-after collaborator in both daily studio classes and world-class masterclasses.
A Journey of Lifelong Learning
Maria holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of Toronto and an ARCT Diploma in Piano Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music. She has studied at respected jazz festivals and academies across North America and Europe, and speaks four languages—English, Russian, French, and Italian. Her dedication to continuous growth fuels her evolving artistry.