Musicians vs the World
108 episodes - English - Latest episode: 9 days ago - ★★★★★ - 23 ratingsJoin professional musician, Christine Smith, as she discusses topics that face the day-to-day lives of those responsible for making the music we all love. Together, with experts and fellow musicians, Christine dives into everything from the business to the personal and even the social/political side of being a musician. It is a refreshing and honest look into the lives of those responsible for performing and creating the music in our lives.
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Episodes
The Emotions Of Music
May 29, 2022 05:15 - 11 minutes - 10.6 MB"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." What happens to our bodies when we are deeply moved by music? Why do some people weep at a beautiful melody? Perhaps most concerning to the host of this show, why doesn't Christine, a life-long music lover and musician, shed tears over music? Is she a heartless robot? It turns out the answer to that question is as complicated and fascinating as music itself. Join Christine as she explores the research on t...
Mindfulness For Musicians with Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier
May 15, 2022 01:37 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MBMany musicians have found that adjusting back to normal life after the pandemic has been difficult in surprising ways. The stress from the transition back to the hustle of musician life has effected musicians on the stage, in the practice room, and in life balance. In today’s episode, Christine speaks with Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier, from “Mind Over Finger,” on how practicing mindfulness can increase quality of practice, quality of musicianship, and quality of life for all musicians. Dr. Gauthi...
Mindfulness For Musicians with Dr. Renee-Paule Gauthier
May 15, 2022 01:37 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MBMany musicians have found that adjusting back to normal life after the pandemic has been difficult in surprising ways. The stress from the transition back to the hustle of musician life has effected musicians on the stage, in the practice room, and in life balance. In today’s episode, Christine speaks with Dr. Renee-Paule Gauthier, from “Mind Over Finger,” on how practicing mindfulness can increase quality of practice, quality of musicianship, and quality of life for all musicians. Dr. Gauthi...
When Music and Politics Meet: with Jonathan Rosenberg
May 01, 2022 05:42 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBIs Russian music “canceled?” What sort of responsibility do musicians have to make their political and moral views known? What relationship do music and politics have with one another? Can they truly be separated? In this episode, Christine speaks about this timely topic with Jonathan Rosenberg, Julliard-trained musician and Harvard-trained historian. Using lessons learned while researching his book, "Dangerous Melodies: Classical Music in America from the Great War through the Cold War," Jon...
Female Composers One Year Later - with Jenny Boster, NCTM
April 17, 2022 05:46 - 37 minutes - 34.3 MBTeacher and clinician Jenny Boster, NCTM, is back with more resources and information about female composers! In the year since Jenny’s last visit, much has changed in the music world. From music publishers and symphony schedules to awards shows such as the Grammys and the Oscars, female composers are beginning to receive well-deserved attention. In this episode, Jenny and Christine talk about the progress being made, future goals, resources for teachers, and highlight some of their new favor...
Performing For "Others" - David Troy Francis, Concert Pianist, Composer, and Arranger
April 03, 2022 07:29 - 49 minutes - 44.9 MBHow does a young boy from a working class family practicing on a cardboard piano in Memphis grow up to compose a smash-hit stage musical, collaborate with Academy Award-winning sound engineers, discuss domestic arguments with Pulitzer-prize winning composers, and help a police force deal with grief? Concert pianist, composer, and arranger David Troy Francis grew up thinking of himself as “the other.” Music was a welcome escape from difficult situations that arose from feeling different and un...
The President's Own Marine Band with Christina Hughes and Tanner Antonetti
March 20, 2022 02:44 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MBOn the eve of their new adventure in Washington DC, Flutist Christina Hughes and Trombonist Tanner Antonetti spare a moment to speak with Christine about their careers, mental preparation for auditions, and balancing career and marriage between two successful musicians.
Finding Strength In Vulnerability with Clarinetist Sam Rothstein
March 06, 2022 06:13 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MBMental Health is a difficult topic to discuss for musicians. However, Sam Rothstein, acting principal clarinetist with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and host of "The Candid Clarinetist," has made a name for himself by tackling difficult topics through honest conversations. In this episode, Christine and Sam discuss mental health, perfectionism, supporting fellow musicians, and how the concept of Ikigai can help a musician create a balanced and meaningful life.
A Look Into Streaming Revenue - Do Streaming Services Rip Off Artists?
February 20, 2022 06:04 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBMusic streaming services have found themselves back in the news lately, as famous musicians are again bemoaning the music industry (and streaming services in particular), trying to show everyone how predatory the system is, and how it’s impossible for musicians to earn a living in the current digital streaming climate. So how does streaming revenue actually work? How do musicians actually get paid when they release music onto music streaming services? In this episode, Christine takes a look i...
Win Your Job, Know Your Job: With Cellist Joel Dallow
February 06, 2022 05:50 - 45 minutes - 41.2 MBAs a member of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Joel Dallow is living the dream of many aspiring cellists. As host of “The Cello Sherpa Podcast,” he shares his expertise with those aspiring musicians to help them along their way. As Christine’s guest today, he shares an insiders’ look into winning an orchestral audition, and knowing your instrument’s role once you get the job. Along the way he shares memorable and unexpected moments from his life in the Cello Section, as well as his must-liste...
Musicians From the Gilded Age of China
January 23, 2022 02:38 - 38 minutes - 35.5 MBWhy are so many American Conservatories and University Music programs recruiting students and musicians from China? What is happening in Chinese pre-collegiate music schools that produces such successful musicians? Dr. Beibei Lin from Valdosta State University set out to research that question, and came back with a completely unexpected answer that goes far beyond the practice room. Join Christine as she and Dr. Lin explore her findings, and discuss motivation, teaching tips, and honoring the...
A Confluence of Musical Worlds - With Composer Christopher Norton
January 09, 2022 04:04 - 44 minutes - 40.9 MB"It's a weird confluence of musical worlds....which happens to be me." Composer Christopher Norton has had a prolific career spanning three decades. His music, where Classical meets Popular music, has sold over 1 million copies, and continues to be loved by musicians, students, and music teachers around the world. In this episode of Musicians vs the World, Christine sits down with Christopher as he talks about his career, from his early days in New Zealand, to his current projects in 2022. A...
2021 In Review: Saving Classical Music One Teacher At A Time
December 12, 2021 05:11 - 30 minutes - 28.1 MB2021 was a year full of change for the world of Classical Music. In this episode, Christine reviews the inspirational interviews and guests from the past 12 months. As she looks back, she finds a surprising theme that weaves itself through many of the interviews. Christine discusses what she's learned from her guests, and how music teachers will "save" Classical Music in the years to come.
Why Do Musicians Look Down on Well-Paying Gigs?
November 28, 2021 07:33 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MBWhy do musicians look down on well-paying gigs? Why do some musicians have difficulties with self-promotion? What does small-talk have to do with being a successful classical musician? The Classical Musical world is working diligently to make Classical Music more inclusive and diverse. But any working musician will tell you that the real world of musicians, based on working gigs and networking, does not always match the ideals we’re aiming for. But why? For the past decade, Dr. Christina Scha...
Why Do Musicians Look Down on Well-Paying Gigs? With Dr. Christina Scharff
November 28, 2021 07:33 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MBWhy do musicians look down on well-paying gigs? Why do some musicians have difficulties with self-promotion? What does small-talk have to do with being a successful classical musician? The Classical Musical world is working diligently to make Classical Music more inclusive and diverse. But any working musician will tell you that the real world of musicians, based on working gigs and networking, does not always match the ideals we’re aiming for. But why? For the past decade, Dr. Christina Scha...
African Pianism And Beyond with Dr. William Chapman Nyaho
November 13, 2021 05:18 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MBThis episode is part 2 of Christine's conversation with William Chapman Nyaho, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Music Teachers National Association. Together, they discuss traits and characteristics of African pianism, as well as the future of Classical Music. Along the way, Dr. Chapman Nyaho shares tips and resources for teachers on helping students to connect with unfamiliar music, as well as a list of worthy composers that deserve the attention of teachers and per...
Music for All with Dr. William Chapman Nyaho
October 31, 2021 05:34 - 25 minutes - 23.8 MBAs the newly-appointed Music Teachers National Association's Vice-President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Dr. William Chapman Nyaho has a firm belief that classical music is meant for all. In his new position, he has the objective of helping music teachers create a positive and inclusive atmosphere for students of all nationalities and backgrounds, as well as bringing classical music to under-served communities. In this part one of two episodes with Dr. Chapman Nyaho, he talks with Chr...
Musicians and the Media with Doug Wilks, Executive Editor of Deseret News
October 17, 2021 08:23 - 33 minutes - 46.6 MBAs musicians' livelihoods depend on audiences hearing their music, and as media continues to be a major gateway to reaching those audiences, it’s important that we understand how to navigate the relationship between musicians and the media. Executive Editor Doug Wilks from Deseret News, one of the strongest multi-platform newsrooms in the country, guides us through the complex world of media. He gives insights on how to catch the attention of national news sources, how to build credibility, a...
Surprise! Bet You Didn't Expect That!
October 03, 2021 05:03 - 13 minutes - 12.1 MBIn 2021, a group of researchers at Dartmouth College set out to study "The Mozart Effect," and why listening to Mozart seems to help patients with Epilepsy. In the same year in Dublin, researchers tried to figure out what happens to our brains when the music goes....silent. But why talk about them in the same episode? Today, Christine discusses the surprising findings, how they're related, and the possibilities they bring for both music makers and music listeners in the future.
Injury and Identity with Colin Williams
September 19, 2021 01:05 - 45 minutes - 62.7 MBColin Williams, Associate Principal Trombonist for the New York Philharmonic, is a passionate performer, engaging educator, and advocate for musician wellness. In this important episode for all musicians, he shares his experience with a potentially career-ending injury. He discusses the physical, mental, and emotional hurdles in his journey back to the orchestra, bringing awareness to a serious issue that isn’t talked about enough in the musician world.
Bypassing the Gatekeepers: Gigging Secrets with Jared Judge
September 04, 2021 21:42 - 33 minutes - 31 MBIn music school, we're sold on the dream of traveling the world, performing in elite ensembles, and "making it big." In reality, musicians often have to forge their own path, bypassing the auditions and "gatekeepers" to a fulfilling and lucrative career. In this episode, Christine has a candid conversation with Jared Judge, host of The Gigging Musicians Podcast, founder of BookLive, and author of "Gigging Secrets: The Underground Playbook to Making a Living Performing." Jared draws on his ow...
One Musician's Influence: with Keith Bradshaw
August 21, 2021 22:02 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBA small town. A young college professor. A non-existent music program. Join Christine as she talks with Dr. Keith Bradshaw on how he built a legacy and influenced lives through his development of the music program at Southern Virginia University.
Are NFTs the Future of Music?
August 08, 2021 00:30 - 11 minutes - 10.8 MBWhat is it with NFTs that is making musicians so excited? It seems like every week there's a news story about a musician jumping on the NFT bandwagon in some way. They're either minting and selling NFTs, or investing in companies involved with them. But what are NFTs anyway? Is it just a side-hustle famous musicians are doing while they wait for concerts to start up again? Or is it a long-term, sustainable income stream for musicians and other artists? In this episode, Christine takes a look ...
The World of Video Game Music With Composer Matt Kenyon
July 24, 2021 13:04 - 38 minutes - 34.9 MBIn 2020, the Video Gaming Industry was estimated to be worth $159.3 Billion. Video Games are a huge part of our global culture, and music and sound design are a huge part of the gaming experience. In this episode, Christine talks with Matt Kenyon, composer, arranger, and host of Composer Code Podcast. Matt and Christine wade into the world of Video Game Music, and discuss how composers and musicians can find a place in and navigate their way around this growing industry.
The Music Score: Holy Relic or Opportunity? Musical Imagination with Bruce Adolphe Part 2
July 10, 2021 05:58 - 24 minutes - 22 MBHow do performers balance creativity with the need to follow the composer's intentions? Why can it so difficult to compose original music? And what does Albert Einstein have to do with it? In part 2 of Christine's interview with composer Bruce Adolphe, Bruce shares his wisdom on all of these topics, as well as offering advice for new musicians. For background information on Bruce Adolphe and his career, be sure to listen to the first half of this interview in "What Are You Trying to Say? Musi...
What Are You Trying to Say? Musical Imagination with Bruce Adolphe: Part 1
June 26, 2021 16:04 - 30 minutes - 28 MBWhat is a Musical Imagination? Do musicians really need it? Composer and scholar Bruce Adolphe thinks so. And he believes that even the most reluctant musician can learn to improvise and express themselves more deeply. And he should know; he wrote the book on it! Join Christine and Bruce on part 1 of their interview as they discuss the wonders of music, and the keys to unlocking improvisation and creativity in composers and performers alike.
Classical Music For Juneteenth
June 19, 2021 07:02 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MBIn honor of our newest National Holiday, "Juneteenth National Independence Day," Christine discusses three classical pieces to listen to and study. These pieces are only a jumping off point into a deep dive into African American musical heritage, and how it has shaped music of all genres, but specifically classical music in American Culture.
The Soul Of The Piano With Concert Pianist Raffi Besalyan
June 05, 2021 19:44 - 34 minutes - 31.8 MBHailed as "a true heir of the mainstream of Russian pianism, like Horowitz," Armenian concert pianist Raffi Besalyan has lived an exciting life. In this episode, Raffi shares lessons learned along the way, from his start in Armenia to his current home in Atlanta. This episode is perfect for pianists, or anyone who loves piano music. He and Christine talk about the difference between Armenian and American music education, technique, performing, recording, editing, and the never-ending quest of...
Spirituality In Music With Dr. Keith Bradshaw
May 23, 2021 03:25 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MB"Music allows a voice to things we can't otherwise express." What is spirituality, and what does it have to do with music? How are spirituality and music connected? In this episode, Christine talks with Dr. Keith Bradshaw about his career, his philosophy on composing and performing classical music, and the vital role spirituality plays in connection and musical experiences.
Choose the Best Music Part 2: What Makes Sad Music Sad?
May 09, 2021 06:20 - 17 minutes - 16.1 MBPart 2 of the Choose the Best Music For Your Project series is here! In this episode we take a deeper look into the emotions of music. Why do certain songs make us sad? Or happy? How do we use that knowledge to increase the impact of the music we choose? And along with that, how can this understanding of music and emotion help us to become better story tellers, content creators, or musicians?
Choose the Best Music For Your Project
April 25, 2021 05:33 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MBHow do professionals choose music to fit their projects? How does a composer get started scoring a film? How can music help enhance the effectiveness of visual presentations? In this episode, Christine gives a step-by-step tutorial on how she approaches music in video and audio projects. She covers important initial steps that ensure that the music composing (or licensing) portion of any project ends up with the most effective outcome.
Female Composers And Why We Should Study Them - With Jenny Boster
April 11, 2021 06:23 - 37 minutes - 34.2 MBHow many composers from music history can you name? Probably a good number. How many of those composers were female? Jenny Boster from The Playful Piano is on a mission to help solve that discrepancy and re-introduce some fantastic female composers back into the classical repertoire. In this episode Christine and Jenny share their reflections on Jenny's Female Composer Challenge, discuss a few favorites, and most importantly, explain WHY we all should be studying the work of female composers ...
Build Your Business - Business Development for Musicians with Sara Verheyen
March 28, 2021 03:54 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MBWho would have thought there was so much business strategy and bookkeeping in music! So you want to make a living as a musician or an independent music teacher. Where to start? In this episode, Christine talks with Sara Verheyen, CPA and owner of Mareish books. Sara's passion is helping small, artistic business owners start off on the right foot. Today she gives helpful advice on everything from setting up a business, figuring out your goals for the future, bookkeeping, key performance indica...
Musicians in the Film World: A Discussion With the Executive Producer and Director of Broken Lilies
March 14, 2021 06:06 - 35 minutes - 32.8 MBIn this episode, Christine continues her deep dive look into collaboration and music by discussing a musician's role in film production. Join her as she has a round-table conversation with the the Producer and Director of the award-winning short film, "Broken Lilies." They discuss workflow, communication, how to find work in the industry, as well as the importance of good music and sound in film production.
How Candy Helped Me Graduate
February 28, 2021 06:23 - 9 minutes - 8.25 MBIn this first installment of the "Student Sectional" Series, Christine explores different types of motivation, and how they relate to a musician's world. What happens when a musician loses their motivation? Is it time to quit? Or can the magic be found again?
What Your Accompanist Wants You To Know - A Conversation with Collaborative Pianist Jayne Galloway
February 13, 2021 23:58 - 37 minutes - 34 MBMusicians vs the World returns with a Valentine's Day love letter to the unsung heroes of music: accompanists! In this episode Christine speaks with the president of the Collaborative Pianists Guild of Utah, Jayne Galloway, about the art and craft of accompanying. As the music world prepares for in-person concerts to start up again, let's take a few minutes to learn from Jayne's expertise on building strong collaborative work relationships and creating effective performances. She also shares ...
Composing - Work Hard to Make it Look Easy, with Bradley Ellingboe
June 28, 2020 03:20 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MBFor many musicians, the act of composing their own original music is the ultimate expression of creativity and connection to music and other people. In these uncertain times, many have turned to composing as an emotional outlet. But how does a musician take that creativity and turn it into a living? In this episode, Christine speaks with award-winning composer, Bradley Ellingboe. Together they discuss the "ins" and "outs" of composing new music and getting that new music performed. From the v...
Amber Brooke - Seizing Opportunity Through Life's Changes
April 26, 2020 01:36 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MBIn today's world, the only constant is change! In this episode, Christine speaks with the wonderful coloratura soprano, Amber Brooke. They discuss Amber's inspiring life story, and how she seized every unexpected opportunity to live her life to the fullest and to share her music with audiences around the world. We hope you enjoy this uplifting and inspiring interview!
COVID-19 vs Musicians: Paycheck Protection Program!!
April 09, 2020 21:05 - 7 minutes - 6.57 MBIMPORTANT!!! The US government has made money available to citizens who are self-employed, sole proprietors, or contract workers, along with small business owners! This money can help many musicians who are struggling financially due to the COVID-19 shut downs. In this episode, Christine goes over some of the basic information to get you started on your way for financial help during this difficult time.
Music and Human Connection with Grant Gershon
March 10, 2020 13:29 - 32 minutes - 29.4 MBIn this episode, Christine has a conversation with the wonderful Grant Gershon, Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Together they discuss the human aspect of music making, and how music can connect people from all different aspects of life in powerful ways. Grant shares his expertise on how, as musicians, we can garner that sense of connectedness through our performance, and how we can look forward towards the future of music and performance. As an added bonus, Grant shares ...
Music and the Body Pt 2: Why Every Child Should Study Music
February 21, 2020 23:36 - 15 minutes - 13.8 MBIn this episode, we continue our fascinating conversation with Lori Finlay Hamilton (and a few special guests!), about how music effects our bodies on the cellular level. This time, we dive into the science behind music's effect on the minds and bodies of children. What is the Mozart effect? Does it really exist? Does music make children better students? Better people? Should every child study music? Join us and find out!
Music and the Body with Lori Finlay Hamilton - Part 1
February 08, 2020 21:19 - 28 minutes - 26 MBWe all know that music can help lift us out of a bad mood and reduce stress. But have you ever wondered how or why? Join Christine's conversation with Lori Finlay Hamilton, as they discuss the fascinating way music effects the body on a cellular level. They will discuss the ever-growing body of research on music and how it can be used to compliment western medicine in improving people's lives.
Performance Anxiety Triage: 5 Principles of Performance Prep
January 11, 2020 02:10 - 14 minutes - 13.1 MBMost musicians feel some sort of pre-performance jitters. But what happens when it goes beyond nervousness and becomes Performance Anxiety? Is there any way to save a performing career when it strikes? Join musician and teacher, Christine Smith, as she shares 5 principles she's learned over the years to help manage the symptoms of performance anxiety. 57Vy18orx9SMbOFfgg5x
The Mind and the Heart of the Maestro
December 15, 2019 03:35 - 33 minutesMaybe you are a musician interested in becoming a professional conductor. Perhaps you play in an ensemble with an orchestra, and want a better understanding of your music director. Or…Perhaps your only experience with a conductor is watching an old Bugs Bunny cartoon and you’re wondering “what exactly is that person with a baton doing up there on stage?” Maybe most importantly, you just love music, and are looking to hear a beautiful and touching story into the power of music. Well, this epi...
The Mind and the Heart of the Maestro with Jose Daniel Flores Caraballo
December 15, 2019 03:35 - 33 minutes - 31.1 MBMaybe you are a musician interested in becoming a professional conductor. Perhaps you play in an ensemble with an orchestra, and want a better understanding of your music director. Or…Perhaps your only experience with a conductor is watching an old Bugs Bunny cartoon and you’re wondering “what exactly is that person with a baton doing up there on stage?” Maybe most importantly, you just love music, and are looking to hear a beautiful and touching story into the power of music. Well, this epi...
Pro Musica International Choral Festival
November 26, 2019 03:22 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MBJoin host, Christine Smith, as she speaks with Dr. Jose Daniel Flores-Caraballo, the Opalka Family Artistic Director of Albany Pro Musica. In the first of a two-part interview, Dr. Flores-Caraballo describes his love of choral music and music education. Come celebrate with us as he also announces a wonderful surprise about his upcoming Pro Musica International Choral Festival!
Musicians vs Athletics
November 17, 2019 19:19 - 22 minutesCan athletics make you a better musician? Can music make you a better athlete? Join Christine as she speaks with Physical Therapist, James Wilks, about both questions, as well as diving into injury prevention. As a bonus, find out if Christine's performance preparation is actually healthy, or if she needs to find a new way to practice!
Musicians vs Athletics with James Wilks
November 17, 2019 19:19 - 22 minutes - 20.8 MBCan athletics make you a better musician? Can music make you a better athlete? Join Christine as she speaks with Physical Therapist, James Wilks, about both questions, as well as diving into injury prevention. As a bonus, find out if Christine's performance preparation is actually healthy, or if she needs to find a new way to practice!
Musicians Vs Auditions - Part 3 - How to Make a Living in an Orchestra
October 15, 2019 00:25 - 31 minutes - 36.4 MBDo you have what it takes to be a professional orchestral musician? In part 3 of our Musicians vs Auditions series, Christine talks with Madelyn and Brian Blanchard, both orchestral Horn players. They share their expertise on choosing a college, auditioning, and navigating through the ups and downs of professional orchestral life.
How to Make a Living in an Orchestra with Brian and Madelyn Blanchard
October 15, 2019 00:25 - 31 minutes - 36.4 MBDo you have what it takes to be a professional orchestral musician? In part 3 of our Musicians vs Auditions series, Christine talks with Madelyn and Brian Blanchard, both orchestral Horn players. They share their expertise on choosing a college, auditioning, and navigating through the ups and downs of professional orchestral life.