Fairy Tales and Fantasies

Duo Andurz, composed of American pianists Aaron Kurz and Vivian Anderson, is quickly becoming known for their captivating playing and musical chemistry. Originally founded in 2015 at the University of Michigan, the duo started their career off with a fiery collaboration on Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. After a hiatus while they pursued graduate degrees apart, Kurz and Anderson re-formed the duo in 2024. Since then, they have played numerous concerts together, and they continue to dazzle audiences with their engaging pianism.

Both pianists are successful in their own individual pursuits, as well. Aaron Kurz enjoys a flourishing solo career and has performed extensively across three continents, in venues ranging from Carnegie Hall in New York to the Palace of Peace and Harmony in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan. His performances have been lauded by the press, called both “nuanced musical journeys” (Belgium’s Le Soir) and “a lesson in pianism” (England’s Cambridge Independent). He has soloed with numerous orchestras around the world, including but not limited to the Fort Worth, Shanxi Shuozilun (China), and City of Cambridge (England) Symphony Orchestras.

Likewise, Vivian Anderson is a highly sought-after performer and pedagogue. She has performed recitals across the United States and is lauded for her colorful and imaginative playing. Anderson is particularly interested in 20th century music and specializes in the research and performance of French composer Olivier Messiaen. She also has a deep love for sharing her musical knowledge with future generations as a teacher. In 2024, she founded Animato Piano Academy with the mission of providing high quality piano instruction in Austin. Her students have won prizes at local and state level competitions and have also been accepted to top music schools around the country.

Duo Andurz is currently based in Austin, TX, where they enjoy performing at a wide variety of venues. They also have a keen interest in giving back to the community in the form of outreach concerts. Most recently, they teamed up with the Texas Hill Country Community Foundation to benefit victims of the 2025 Texas floods, and Casa Marianella to benefit displaced immigrants seeking refuge in Texas. The duo can also frequently be found performing for residents of local assisted living centers. Both pianists love the outdoors and are avid sports fans, often seen at the local ballpark.