Gabriela Glapska is a Polish-born, Wellington-based pianist celebrated for her expressive artistry, versatility, and collaborative spirit. An accomplished soloist, chamber musician, and sought-after accompanist, she brings clarity, depth, and nuance to a wide range of musical settings.

 

Gabriela holds a Master’s degree with Distinction from the Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz, where she studied under renowned pianist Ewa Pobłocka, and a PhD in Music Performance from Victoria University of Wellington. She currently works as a collaborative pianist at Te Kōkī – New Zealand School of Music.

 

She is the co‑founder and pianist of Ghost Trio, alongside violinist Monique Lapins and cellist Ken Ichinose. Hailed as “extraordinarily dynamic and impactful [with] infinitely varied playing” (Peter Mechen - Middle C), the trio has performed nationwide, and looks forward to presenting a vast array of exciting musical performances in 2025. Some of these include embarking on a national tour for Chamber Music New Zealand’s In Partnership series this year, premiering new compositions by New Zealand composers, and performing as a part of New Zealand String Quartet’s Shostakovich: Unpacked project. The trio is passionate about exploring a new approach towards the greatest classics written for piano trio, the discovery of lesser-known contemporary treasures as well as proudly showcasing new works by Aotearoa’s talented composers.

 

Gabriela is also an active performer of contemporary music, regularly appearing with Stroma, one of New Zealand’s leading new music ensembles. Her work in this space reflects a deep engagement with bold and experimental repertoire.

 

She has collaborated extensively with soprano Barbara Paterson on projects that explore emotionally and musically demanding repertoire, including Olivier Messiaen’s Harawi, George Crumb’s Apparition, and Francis Poulenc’s monodrama La voix humaine. These performances have been praised for their intensity, sensitivity, and interpretive depth.

 

Gabriela’s wider performance career includes appearances at the ISCM World New Music Days, Nelson Composers Workshops, and the International Viola Congress. She has performed with leading arts organisations such as the Royal New Zealand Ballet, New Zealand Opera, and Wellington Opera.

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In addition to her performance work, Gabriela is committed to music outreach and education. She has toured nationally with New Zealand Opera’s “Opera in Schools” programme, bringing accessible opera experiences to schools throughout the country. In 2024, she also served as an adjudicator for Chamber Music New Zealand Contest, supporting young chamber musicians across the country.

 

Whether performing in concert halls, schools, or contemporary music spaces, Gabriela Glapska is known for her refined musicianship, intuitive ensemble playing, and passionate advocacy for music in all its forms.