Being a Black Musician
February 24, 2016Classical music is very interesting. Although it explores a vast array of different backgrounds and walks of life, that array is mostly restricted to Western Europe and a select few regions of Eastern Europe. Unfortunately, Asian, Native American, Indian, South American, and African music is vastly overlooked. When thinking about the diversity of many orchestras, or […]
3 Practices That Must Die
It’s sometimes frustrating to try to imagine listening to Classical music for the first time. Most of us either grew up with it, or developed an obsession after hearing those first few notes, so the ideas of concert-going traditions are just something we do. Not something we ponder. Well, maybe we should! Why on Earth […]
How Video Game Music Can Save Classical Music
It’s the thought that plagues all of our minds: “Classical Music is dying.” That is, if you care one way or another. Well, lately, I’ve been watching some of Leonard Bernstein’s Young People’s Concerts, and they are absolute gold. I firmly believe that he and they New York Philharmonic inspired an entire generation of Classical […]
Hangout on October 20th – Musician Health, Anatomy, and Yoga: Tips for Optimal Performance
October 15, 2015Join Kayleigh Miller, violist, professional yoga instructor, and founder of the Musician’s Health Collective for this discussion of musician health, anatomy, and yoga for musicians. What should musicians know about their bodies (especially upper bodies) and how our playing positions and daily activities effect our bodies? What kinds of healthy routines can musicians practice to […]
How to Get Over Performance Anxiety
July 21, 2015Do YOU battle with Performance Anxiety? Do YOU wish you could perform better under pressure??? Well, I might be able to help you out! Truth is, the secret IS mind over matter! Check out the video to see what I mean!
Is Classical Music Dying??
June 4, 2015Hey guys! TVK here! Have you ever been asked if Classical Music is dying? I certainly have; the question ranks a close second to “What the heck is a viola??” Well, IS Classical Music dying? In my humble opinion, I don’t think it is. I think that the decline in interest with mainstream culture is […]
Updates from the Real World: Lessons Learned from Year One
May 28, 2015Well, folks, I’ve done it! As of Monday, May 18th, I’ve survived one whole year in the “real world.” It’s been a whirlwind twelve months, filled with new opportunities, experiences, and perspectives, and so in light of this anniversary, I’d like to take the opportunity to share some of the many insights I’ve gained along […]
An Account from Cuba
May 21, 2015Unless you’re living under a rock (or in a practice room), you knew about the Minnesota Orchestra’s historic tour to Cuba last week. Presenting two concerts on May 15th and 16th, the orchestra’s visit marked the first significant cultural exchange between America and Cuba following President Obama’s initiative to open a new chapter in the […]
Updates from the Real World: Expecting (and Embracing) the Unexpected
May 14, 2015Next Monday, May 18th, marks one year since my graduation from Eastman and subsequent entry into the “real world.” That year, which I’ve chronicled to some extent on this blog, has been one of enlightenment, growth, and discovery–but it’s also been one of surprise. It turns out that there are a wide variety of roles […]
How Might Personalization Trends Apply to Music?
May 11, 2015In a recent edition of the “You’ve Cott Mail” email newsletter, Thomas Cott profiled an interesting article about personalization trends in our society. You’ve undoubtedly noticed this – people want an increasingly personalized experience, from personalized news to curated clothing and food choices. It is interesting to consider how the idea of personalization might effect […]