Ursula Oppens

Ursula Oppens (born February 2, 1944, in New York) is a distinguished American pianist known for her dedication to contemporary classical music. She began her musical studies with her mother, Edith Oppens, a long-time instructor at Mannes College. Subsequently, she studied under Guido Agosti and Leonard Shure, and graduated from the Juilliard School under the tutelage of Rosina Lhévinne. She also studied ensemble performance with Felix Galimir. In 1969, she achieved international recognition by winning first prize at the Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition.

Oppens performs as a consistent advocate for the newest academic music, often championing its most radical manifestations. Her repertoire is founded on the works of composers such as Luciano Berio, Witold Lutosławski, György Ligeti, Conlon Nancarrow, and Charles Wuorinen, many of whom have dedicated compositions to her. Notable projects include a recording and concert series of Elliott Carter's piano music to celebrate his centenary in 2008. Additionally, her recording of Frederic Rzewski's variations on "The People United Will Never Be Defeated!" was nominated for a Grammy Award.

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