Lessons gleaned from the first season of Music Crush

 A little late for Thanksgiving (I was busy eating and hiking), but I am thankful for wise, generous musicians this season! I've spent the last year building a podcast with my friend, and after 23 episodes, I am amazed by how much I love each and every one of these interviews. Forgive the shameless plug, but these are some of my favorites, including a couple previews from Season 2 (which starts December 13), if you're looking for some inspiration right now. 

Season 1 favorites

Episode 1, aired 12/7/22: NYC-based composer, educator, and all-around agent for change Michael Genese discussed how different NYC communities dealt with the pandemic, social justice in music circles, the great importance of having a collaborative community, and some great advice on learning how to wear multiple hats as a musician. I found Michael to be calming, thoughtful, and wise beyond their years. 

Episode 9, aired 3/29/23: Erika Boysen, flute professor at UNCG and creator of the fascinating Moving Sound app, talked about being true to herself as an interdisciplinary artist, creating a more inclusive world for her students, and the unavoidable truth that challenge=growth. At a time when I was struggling to be patient and charitable with my own students and colleagues, this interview really set me back on the right path.

Episode 13, aired 5/24/23: Meerenai Shim, flutist and owner/founder of the recording label Aerocade Music, shared some really unique thoughts about how she chooses who she records and promotes, and this totally changed the way I approach my own work (or at least clarified it).

Episode 14 aired 6/7/23: Composer-actor Zaq Latino was a load of fun to talk to, and I am especially grateful that they were willing to be so vulnerable with us about performance anxiety, imposter syndrome, and knowing you’re in the right place. I was also inspired (and humbled) by their generosity in approaching collaborations with performers!

Episode 23 (aired 11/15/23): This conversation with my former colleague, composer Anne Guzzo, explored the ideas of creating music to teach us about our responsibilities to the planet, making art music meaningful through the personal, and breaking down barriers in the classical arts. She also shared some insights on her recent break with academia and explored her challenging experiences as a woman, and a native of “flyover country” in the classical music world, and I have never felt less alone.


Coming up on Season 2 ...

Episode 1 (12/13/23) Deep Listening® Facilitator, flutist, composer, and scholar JANE RIGLER walked us through a Deep listening session, share the fascinations of living abroad, and drop some sneaky advice on making yourself indispensable in the workplace. Jane calls herself a storyteller and a connector; we would like to humbly add brilliant philosopher to that list. Referenced inspirations: Pauline Oliveros, Laurie Anderson, Meredith Monk, Wade Matthews, Steve Fernandez, Butch Morris, Walter Thomspon, and Peter Kowald.

Episode 2 (12/27/23) This conversation with flutist, composer, and educator MELISSA KEELING was like your daily dose of OM. Topics include her world-altering move from the South to New York City to study with Robert Dick, the value of establishing authentic relationships in the business, and she encouraged us to embrace the F Word (FUN) in the most delightful ways. For the flute nerds out there, she also shared some hot tips on getting started on the glissando headjoint, incorporating electronics into performances, and the value of a good jaw harp lesson.

 

Listen to Music Crush on our Spotify page, at Apple Podcasts, or anywhere you listen to your favorite shows.