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Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Start the year with a jolt of creative permission! We sit down with Grammy-winning cellist Mike Block to trace the real path from conservatory discipline to cross-cultural collaboration. Mike opens up about the moment improvisation unlocked joy, how Silk Road Ensemble and Mark O’Connor reframed his identity, and why adding genres isn’t about collecting tricks—it’s about finding communities, languages, and listeners who expand what your instrument can do. We dig into the rapid rise of multi-genre string playing at conservatories and beyond, and what that means for technique, career design, and confidence. Mike shares how his string camp turns stand-bound readers into agile collaborators by removing sheet music, mixing levels, and setting real performance stakes. We explore early music education with fresh eyes: Suzuki’s strengths, where ear-first creativity can fit, and why a global repertoire helps kids hear themselves in the music sooner. The line that sticks: classical training doesn’t monopolize technique; it just organized it first. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Mike’s Shark Tank appearance with Forte 3D—why he chose Bach for investors, what it takes to argue for access on national TV, and how affordable, durable instruments can open doors for students everywhere.  If you’re a string player, educator, or curious listener who’s felt the pull beyond one lane, this conversation gives you the frameworks, stories, and practical breadcrumbs to move forward.  Subscribe, share with a friend who needs the nudge, and leave a 5-star review to help more musicians find their voice with us! Mentioned in the episode: Forte3D instruments: https://forte3d.com/ Guided Practice Sessions: https://www.guidedpracticesessions.com/ Mike's Summer Improv Camp: https://www.mikeblockstringcamp.com/ Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Kyleen King, violist and string arranger for Brandi Carlile, opens up about musicians' mental health challenges and her journey toward becoming a therapist for touring musicians. She shares unfiltered insights about the psychological toll of touring life and the community support that's helping her transition into social work. • The reality gap between performing onstage and the other "22.5 hours" of touring life • How musicians mask suffering through performance both on and off stage • The isolation of touring despite being surrounded by people constantly • Kyleen's pursuit of a social work degree to help fellow musicians with mental health challenges • The success of her community-funded education through GoFundMe • The myth of individualism versus the reality of community interdependence • Growing industry recognition of musicians' mental health needs • Organizations like Backline offering mental health support to musicians Text us your feedback via the link in our show notes, join our email list through our website, or support us through Patreon to help us keep these conversations going! Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Liz and Steph reunite after an eight-month podcast hiatus, bringing with them powerful stories of personal transformation through health challenges.  With remarkable vulnerability, Steph shares her breast cancer journey—the fear, the treatments, and ultimately the strength she discovered within herself and from her support network. Her experience serves as both inspiration and gentle reminder about the life-saving importance of regular mammograms. Meanwhile, Liz opens up about navigating life with rare Addison's disease, describing her evolution from merely managing symptoms to exploring deeper healing possibilities. Her realization that autoimmunity requires listening to her body's limits represents a profound shift away from the constant hustle that once defined her professional life. Together, these parallel health journeys have given both musicians a new perspective on what truly matters. The conversation weaves through serious topics with natural moments of lightness—from Netflix recommendations to memories of watching Celine Dion's documentary together. What emerges most clearly is how this extended break has crystallized their vision for the podcast's future. Though they'll produce fewer episodes moving forward, they're recommitting to the deep, curiosity-driven conversations that have fueled their own personal growth since the podcast's pandemic-era beginnings.. This isn't just a return—it's a renewal of purpose. As they prepare to welcome guests again (with one interview already recorded), Steph and Liz invite listeners to connect beyond social media, through their email list, and direct messaging.  At its heart, this episode celebrates the sustaining power of community during life's unexpected challenges. Have you experienced similar transformations through difficult periods? We'd love to hear your story. Text us above! Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! What happens when your body sends you warnings that something is seriously wrong? Join us as we recount Liz's unexpected journey through debilitating health challenges, including severe migraines and a frightening ER visit. After numerous consultations and tests, Liz was diagnosed with Addison's disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting cortisol production. We discuss the emotional and physical hurdles faced during this time, the impact on her career, and the immense relief that comes with a definitive diagnosis and effective treatment. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about the importance of listening to your body and the twists and turns life can take. We also tackle the often frustrating reality of getting medical professionals to take women's health concerns seriously. Sharing personal stories of perseverance and eventual validation, we highlight the importance of advocating for one's health and the benefits of functional medicine. Our discussion takes an intriguing turn with a surprise encounter with Alban from the Buzzcast podcast, which led us to explore Buzzsprout's new feature...TEXT US ABOVE☝️!!  Steph reflects on her memorable trip to California for a unique class, and we encourage listeners to embrace their multifaceted identities and step out of their comfort zones this summer! What are you excited about this summer? TEXT US ABOVE 👆!  Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! In this week's recap, we're here to whisk you away on a South American escapade—minus the need for frantic passport updates or surprise visa requirements. Our favorite orchestra is on TOUR! Find out what happens when there's apparently no rehearsal itinerary and musicians are unleashed on Mexico City! *If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Discover the keys to turning artistic flair into financial success as we sit down with the extraordinary Miriam Schulman, the mind behind "Artpreneur." Her book lights the way for artists to thrive in the marketplace, and we're diving deep into her treasure trove of strategies. From setting the right prices to self-promotion that doesn't feel like selling out, Miriam's insights offer a compass for creatives looking to chart their own course with confidence. Whether you paint, perform, or play, the wisdom shared in this episode promises to enrich your path to prosperity. We tackle the persistent myth that art is an unstable foundation for a career, bringing forward real-life sagas of artists who’ve molded their passions into a sustainable income. All-in-all, we're here to affirm that your artistry warrants as much respect and reward as any other profession. **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!   We have a Patreon site! Support us here - any little bit helps us produce these episodes, so thanks in advance 💜 www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ************************ Mentioned in this episode: Miriam’s book: Artpreneur: ArtpreneurBOOK.com Get the first chapter for FREE here: schulmanart.com/BELIEVE The Inspriation Place Podcast: schulmanart.com/podcast  Miriam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schulmanart/ ************************ How did you like this episode? 🤩 Inspiring! 🙂 Pretty solid 😐 Meh, could’ve been better 😴 Snooze-fest ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and sharing your stories and feedback! Produced by: Liz O’Hara and Stephanie Knutsen Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Ever looked at your music career and wondered if there's more to it than the path you're currently on? Katherine Emeneth joins us with her wealth of experience as a studio building expert and career coach for creatives, ready to shed light on the vast potential that lies beyond traditional music paths. She steers us through the terrain of scarcity versus abundance in the industry, illustrating how to mold opportunities that truly resonate with your personal values and aspirations. Our conversation is a treasure trove of practical advice for those seeking to carve out their niche and invest in a life that harmoniously blends professional success with rich personal experiences. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review  our podcast!  We also have a Patreon site! Support us here: www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ***************************** Mentioned in this episode: More info on Katherine's course: "Music Teachers Playbook" Those who enroll before May 2024 get the following amazing bonuses: 🎶 Website building course that includes branding, logo design, SEO, website audits and more (Valued at $800) 🎶2 Extra 1:1 coaching calls (Valued at $400) Be sure to mention "MusicianCentric"! Katherine's website: https://www.katherineemeneth.com/ and IG: @katherineemeneth ***************************** Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Unlock the backstage pass to an evening where classical music meets wild party vibes, and where industry giants cameo as themselves, merging the highbrow with pop culture. Episode four of "Mozart in the Jungle" has us wrapped around Dermot Mulroney's fingers just like his cello strings, as we gush over his performance that's as captivating as his '90s silver screen magic. And who wouldn't want to party with Lang Lang, Josh Bell and Emmanuel Axe? Laugh along with us as the orchestra gets ready for an international tour, and the seeds are being sown for all sorts of new relationships, musical and otherwise! *If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! In this episode we talk shop with violin maker and luthier Robyn Sullivan! She tells us about her path to the bench and what her experience has been as a woman in the sometimes male-dominated field of lutherie. Robyn is not only busy in the shop at Potter Violins in Washington, DC, but is advocating for women makers as well. The Women in Lutherie exhibit will tour the East Coast starting in May 2024! Listen in to this short but provocative look inside the world of lutherie, a field that's come a long way for women, and is still evolving. **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us here: www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ______________________________ Mentioned in this episode: Women in Lutherie Exhibit: www.celebratingwomenluthiers2024.com Robyn on IG: @rsullivanviolins ______________________________ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! **This is Part 2 of our conversation with Drew. Be sure to look for Part 1 in our feed to hear the whole glorious episode! Ever wondered how to carve out a successful career in music, with or without the classical repertoire? That Viola Kid, Drew Ford, rejoins us to unravel the secrets of thriving as an “Extra-Classical Musician" in today's dynamic indtry. We start off with a little Valentine's Day banter and a nod to the eerie allure of "True Detective," but the real heart of our conversation is Drew's savvy advice for musicians navigating the economic challenges and opportunities of the modern landscape. Whether you're a musician feeling the pinch or a music lover curious about the industry's inner workings, you're in for a treat! Drew doesn't shy away from the tough topics—we're talking hard numbers and the stark financial realities for those in the classical music trenches.  We talk about knowing your worth and the art of negotiation for better compensation, while also serving up some fresh takes on personal branding and direct audience engagement. If you're itching to connect with your fans on a deeper level or to navigate the music industry with finesse, tune in for strategies that hit all the right notes. **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric Mentioned in this episode: Drew's newsletter, Grace Notes: https://thatviolakid.com/gracenotes wholesoul, a string quartet with attitude: https://www.wholesoulmusic.com/ ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Graphic Design by: Jenny H Designs, www.jennyhdesign.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Ever wondered how to carve out a successful career in music, with or without the classical repertoire? That Viola Kid, Drew Ford, rejoins us to unravel the secrets of thriving as an "extra classical musician" in today's dynamic industry. We start off with a little Valentine's Day banter and a nod to the eerie allure of "True Detective," but the real heart of our conversation is Drew's savvy advice for musicians navigating the economic challenges and opportunities of the modern landscape. Whether you're a musician feeling the pinch or a music lover curious about the industry's inner workings, you're in for a treat! Drew doesn't shy away from the tough topics—we're talking hard numbers and the stark financial realities for those in the classical music trenches.  We talk about knowing your worth and the art of negotiation for better compensation, while also serving up some fresh takes on personal branding and direct audience engagement. If you're itching to connect with your fans on a deeper level or to navigate the music industry with finesse, tune in for strategies that hit all the right notes. **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric Mentioned in this episode: Drew's newsletter, Grace Notes: https://thatviolakid.com/gracenotes wholesoul, a string quartet with attitude: https://www.wholesoulmusic.com/ ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Graphic Design by: Jenny H Designs, www.jennyhdesign.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! ** This is the second of two parts of our conversation. If you haven't yet, be sure to listen to the first part! Pull up a chair and join the intimate discussion with Ernest Stewart, whose vast trombone performing experience transcends genres. Ernest now works with Mid Atlantic Arts, bringing his insights from stage to the boardroom, and shedding light on the significance of artists steering the grant-making wheel. We navigate through the complexities of the music industry, the untold value of mentorship, and the balancing act between growth and vulnerability. Ernest's story, punctuated with humor and warmth, serves as a beacon for any creative soul navigating the ever-evolving path to artistic fulfillment! **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric Mentioned in this episode: MidAtlantic Arts Foundation: https://www.midatlanticarts.org/ Ernest's website: http://erneststuart.com/ Ernest's album, Solitary Walker: listen here ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! 🎉 HAPPY NEW YEAR! We're shaking things up with a slight change to our episode lengths this year...so let us know what you think! This is the first of two parts of our conversation. Stay tuned to the feed for Part Two, available in a matter of days. Pull up a chair and join the intimate discussion with Ernest Stewart, whose vast trombone performing experience transcends genres. Ernest now works with Mid Atlantic Arts, bringing his insights from stage to the boardroom, and shedding light on the significance of artists steering the grant-making wheel. We navigate through the complexities of the music industry, the untold value of mentorship, and the balancing act between growth and vulnerability. Ernest's story, punctuated with humor and warmth, serves as a beacon for any creative soul navigating the ever-evolving path to artistic fulfillment! **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric Mentioned in this episode: MidAtlantic Arts Foundation: https://www.midatlanticarts.org/ Ernest's website: http://erneststuart.com/ Ernest's album, Solitary Walker: listen here ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Join us as we rewind the scenes of the sometimes-celebrated TV show, "Mozart in the Jungle"! Rodrigo finds out what too many bacchanals means for his housing status and Bradford moves in with Lizzie and Hailey. Gloria reveals a 'shocking' new talent and we're introduced to a very charming oboist with a wealth of musical experiences, but it's all leading us up to Hailey's inevitable debut with the NYSO. Because 5th oboe always goes on tour, right? **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ************************ Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!

Stories? Questions? Thoughts? TEXT us here! Our guest today is Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate, a composer, pianist and member of the Chickasaw Nation! Jerod shares valuable insights on his journey of self-discovery, embracing his roots, and the significant role they play in his artistic expression. Jerod tells us about his creative process, how he balances artistic productivity with parenting, and the significance of finding support in challenging times. Always grateful, he is juggling life's demands like the rest of us! We loved getting to know more about the man behind the explosion of modern American Indian music, and we know you will too! **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast!  We have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content! www.patreon.com/musiciancentric ---------------- Mentioned in this episode: Jerod's website: https://jerodtate.com/ Rosette String Quartet on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosetteSQ/ ---------------- Our website: www.musiciancentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback! Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara ViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.com Additional music by: Freddy Hall with www.musicforpodcasts.com Thank you to our Sponsor for this season: Potter Violins: www.potterviolins.com Support the show Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!