Music Un-Tuxed Podcast
Stay Tuned! Episode 3 will be released soon!
SEASON 2
Episode 2-2: Tracy Silverman - Grooving on the Violin
Tracy Silverman, the dynamic electric violinist known for his pioneering work with the six-string violin and his contributions to modern string playing, discusses his background, from his early start at Julliard to his revolutionary ideas on integrating classical string instruments into popular music. Tracy shares insights from his Turtle Island String Quartet days, the founding of Rumbo Groove Academy, and his collaborations with legendary musicians like Jean-Luc Ponty. He emphasizes the need for evolution in string playing to keep it relevant and organic within contemporary music culture, and introduces his concept of 'strum bowing' as a key technique. Tracy also talks about his approach to teaching students, focusing on inspiring passion for the music they love. The discussion concludes with a demonstration of his electrifying playstyle and an exploration of his innovative six-string violin design.
Episode 2-1: Colette Stephens - Breaking the Music Education Mold: Music is Freedom for Kids
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges through Music Education with Colette Stephens 🔥 How can we make music programs more inclusive? 🔥 Why does representation in music education matter so much? 🔥 How can music help students understand social justice and their own identity?Imagine being the only Black orchestra director in your entire school district... That's the reality for Colette Stephens, who’s been teaching music for over 26 years in Lancaster, PA. But she's not just leading an orchestra — she's changing the game for music education. If you're a music teacher, musician, or student, this story will hit home.
SEASON 1
Episode 1-6: Thor Sigurdson - The Conductor Sees the Future; Strings, Orchestra and Building Community
Thor Sigurdsson, a Juilliard-educated cellist, bassist, conductor, and founder of the Haydn Seek music program, discusses the significance of community in music, the cooperative nature of orchestras, and his approach to conducting, particularly in community orchestras. Thor says the biggest trap for a conductor is when s/he believes they are in control of the players. He shares insights from his 20-year orchestral career, the role of rhythm in creating cohesive performances, and the importance of humility and vision for conductors. Thor also explores his passion for chamber music and the therapeutic nature of communal music-making. Stay on until the end for a special performance of Bach's Sarabande from Suite No. 5 on cello.
Episode 1-5: Jennifer Roig-Francoli - How to Practice Less, Perform Better, and Overcome Performance AnxietY
Classical violinist Jennifer Roig-Francoli and Michael Jamanis share some great tips for overcoming performance anxiety and practicing less to gain more. The key to great playing is great practicing. If you practice with pleasure and joy and ease, you will perform with ease and pleasure. If you “push and force and grind” out your practice, all of that tension will show up when you perform and it won’t be pretty.
Episode 1-4: Matthew Woodson - What Makes A Great Music Educator? Ditch Music Ed?
What are the benefits of community drumming? Is drumming good for mental health? Is being a music performance major worth it? Join Michael Jamanis and Matt Woodson, percussionist and jazz lover as we discuss these questions and more on Music Un-Tuxed. Matt’s role as the Director of Community Percussion at Music For Everyone truly exemplifies the transformative power of percussion instruments in bringing people together and promoting joy in creating. His emphasis on listening, building trust, and leaving room for others in group collaboration extends beyond music and resonates with the larger principles of human interaction and connection. Matt’s journey from a music performance major to becoming an educator and community percussion director highlights the role of entrepreneurship in creating opportunities and making a meaningful impact in music education and community engagement.
Episode 1-3: Francis Wong - Jazz, Activism and Identity
The legendary jazz saxophonist and community builder from Chinatown, San Francisco, Francis Wong talks about his musical journey, the influence of the political upheavals of the 60s and 70s, and his work in integrating activism with music. The discussion includes the significance of the Black Arts Movement, Wong's experiences with mentors like Max Roach, and his contributions in promoting Asian American identity through music. Wong elaborates on his approach to improvisation, composing cross-cultural pieces, and the importance of creativity and community building in music.
Episode 1-2: Christian Sands - Is Classical Music Inclusive?
Christian Sans shares his teaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of making music education inclusive and accessible. He talks about the value of mentorship, proper technique, and fostering a love for music in students. Additionally, he reflects on his personal experiences with music performance and education, including the challenges and rewards of teaching music to young students. The episode also covers lighter topics, such as Christian's fondness for karaoke, walking his dog Spider, and his rejuvenation activities outside of his busy professional life.
Episode 1-1: Arnold Steinhardt - How to Play the Violin & What is Music Good for?
What is music good for? What makes the violin sound so beautiful? How do you get a good sound on the violin? These are just a few of the juicy questions special guest Arnold Steinhardt and Michael Jamanis discuss in Part Two of their interview on Music Un-Tuxed. Arnold also shares his perspective on the need to take risks, especially when recording and offers many funny stories along the way!