The Story of Alexey Shor: From Mathematician to Contemporary Classical Composer. The Interview

Alexey Shor, a 1970-born Ukrainian-American composer who originally earned a PhD in mathematics and worked in finance, has transitioned to a full-time career in contemporary classical music. From April 28 to 30, 2026, his neo-romantic compositions were performed at the Auditorium RAI "Arturo Toscanini" in Turin, Italy, by the RAI National Symphony Orchestra under Estonian conductor Anu Tali, alongside works by Rachmaninoff, Schubert, and Grieg. The concerts featured renowned musicians including Russian conductor Mikhail Pletnev, violinist Giuseppe Gibboni, violinist Daniel Lozakovich, and pianist Arsenii Moon. In an interview with Artribune, Shor discussed his dual career, his emotional connection to audiences, and his openness to having his music used in films.

This story matters because it highlights a rare and inspiring career shift from mathematics to music, illustrating how analytical training can coexist with deep emotional expression. Shor's growing international presence, from Malta to Dubai and now Italy, signals a rising interest in accessible, neo-romantic contemporary classical music that prioritizes audience connection over technical complexity. His success also underscores the global reach of Ukrainian-born artists and the enduring appeal of melodic, emotionally charged composition in an era often dominated by avant-garde experimentation.