Michael Groner

Born and raised in Southern California, Michael Groner is a 23-year-old Japanese American pianist pursuing his Master of Music at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, studying with Jon Nakamatsu as a Janet Rose Piano Scholarship recipient. Michael has garnered top prizes at competitions including IAPMT Concours International de Concertos, Los Angeles International Liszt Competition, SFCM Concerto Competition, USC Concerto Competition, and The Music Center’s Spotlight Competition. He was also awarded the Bronze Medal and Best Performance of a Mazurka by Karol Szymanowski at the Seattle International Piano Competition. As a soloist, he has performed across the U.S. and Japan, with highlights including the Redlands Bowl with the Hollywood Chamber Orchestra, Zipper Hall, Kawai Omotesando Concert Salon “Pause,” and KUSC’s Sundays Live series. Michael earned his Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Southern California, where he studied with Bernadene Blaha and was recognized as the 2025 Thornton Outstanding Bachelors Graduate, Outstanding Keyboard Studies Bachelors Graduate, and Renaissance Scholar. He has received artistic guidance in masterclasses from world-class pianists, including Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Fabio Bidini, Alexander Korsantia, and Wu Han. Additionally, Michael is an avid collaborative and chamber musician, playing in gigs throughout the San Francisco area.