Creative Baggage

In this episode, we talk to composer/violinist/YouTuber Michael Shingo Crawford about his various skills, and how they allow him to have artistic control over his projects. We discuss the benefits and challenges of working as an individual versus in a team, emphasizing how collaborating with others can affect a creative vision. Finally, we share our experiences with monetizing our hobbies and deve...

In this episode, we weigh the positive and negative elements of boredom, contemplating whether it is necessary or something to be avoided. We discuss the fear of boredom, as well as its association with laziness. We also talk about the role that being bored plays in sparking creativity, and how we can create an environment that inspires us to reach past the feeling of boredom.

In this episode, we continue our conversation about vulnerability and connection with Elizabeth Rowe. She tells us about her journey to becoming a coach for young creatives, and how rewarding it has been to help people realize their potential. We also talk about our passions outside of music, coming to the conclusion that sometimes our outside interests can have profound impacts on our career, but...

In this episode, we talk to Elizabeth Rowe (principal flutist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra) about the importance of being compassionate towards ourselves and others, especially in a field of work that is often isolating and competitive. We open up about some of our struggles and insecurities, asserting that being vulnerable is crucial to overcoming loneliness. We also discuss finding motivatio...

In this episode, we talk to our good friend and fellow flutist Malinda Voell about the benefits and challenges of dating another musician. We discuss valuing a partner’s opinion, appreciating each other’s art, and the sense of competition that can arise from working in the same field. Follow Malinda on Instagram!  instagram.com/malindangelinda

In this episode, we talk to Garrett Dexter about his journey to becoming a professional music educator. Garrett provides insight on the ways in which the field of Music Ed has evolved over the years, as well as the direction it is headed in now. We also discuss our fears of not being “qualified” to teach and what it means to be a great music teacher. https://linktr.ee/creative.baggage

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Evan Kassof about his work as a labor organizer, particularly as president of the Temple University Graduate Students’ Association (TUGSA). We dive into the inequalities present in higher education, as well as the affects of financial insecurity on our abilities to teach, create art, and help others. You can find Evan’s musical works on his website: http://www.ev...

In this episode, we talk to Americorps member and aspiring lawyer Keenen McMurray about the economic barriers involved in law school applications and how a law degree will allow him to help others in the future. We also talk about taking a detour to explore jobs and passions that aren’t necessarily related to our career paths. You can find Keenen’s writings through the link below: https://medium.c...

In this episode, we talk to Jeff and Jacob from the band Riverview about their experiences making music while working/studying full time. We also learn a lot about the pop punk genre and the music scene in Arkansas. You can listen to Riverview’s debut song “Knuckles” through the links below: YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=jc7WEa9LaJo Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/t...

In this episode, we talk to our friend Sam Nebyu about his experiences as a touring solo violinist and recording artist. Sam reminisces about the highs and lows of constant travel and the beginnings of his very first album, Music by Composers of African Descent. Learn more about Sam's Album: https://www.wrti.org/post/classical-album-week-music-composers-african-descent-violinist-samuel-nebyu

In this episode, we talk to our audio engineer Justin Bartlett about his journey into the world of music technology. We reflect on how daunting it can feel to put time and energy into learning an unfamiliar skill and discuss the ways in which we have overcome the barriers to entry when learning to use technology. We conclude that developing new skills is a very humbling experience and the ability...

In this episode, we discuss the difference between being “nice” and being “kind” to the people around us. We reflect on the times we have hurt and been hurt by others, drawing the conclusion that people are often too consumed by their own problems to realize the harm they have caused. We assert that the act of imagining what others might be going through is crucial for both minimizing the harm we...

In this episode, we speak with Susanna Klein, creator of the Practizma Practice Journal about the psychology of practice and bringing creativity into the practice room. As a celebration of our 20th episode, we are thrilled to be partnering with Susanna to send a free copy of her journal to one lucky listener! Head on over to our instagram page to enter (Giveaway ends on October 15, 2020 at 12pm ES...

In this episode, we talk to our former professor Dr. Ted Latham about the factors that influenced his decision to pursue music theory over musical theatre. We address topics such as work/life balance, the importance of collaboration, and our sensitivity to performance environments. We are honored to have Dr. Latham as our teacher and guest. http://womenssacredmusicproject.org/ https://www.youtube....

In this episode, we speak with Shiv Goel and Jack Osmond, who have founded a non-profit committed to helping people shop consciously. The four of us discuss the ways in which we have incorporated sustainability into our own lives while acknowledging that we cannot beat climate change without systemic change. In order to save this planet, industries and individuals alike must be compassionate, pers...

In this episode, we talk to our former professor Dr. Michael Klein about navigating his career as a young theorist and pianist. Through a series of fun anecdotes, he teaches us the value of improvising your next step, whether it be on or offstage. We are honored to have him as our teacher and guest.

In this episode, we talk to tattooist Blacky Rixdorf about his unique story shifting careers from psychiatry to tattooing.  We talk about the expanding contemporary tattoo scene and how it is changing the way we think about tattoos. Visit Blacky's website: blackyrixdorf.com

In this episode, we talk with Julian Loida about the social challenges that arise as a side-effect of music school. We reflect on our own experiences dealing with drama and the difficulties of having our musical lives be intertwined with our personal lives. Julian’s Website: www.julianloida.com Julian’s Instagram: @julianloida

In this episode, we have a conversation with Dr. Tanya Kalmanovitch about forging an artistic path that is socially and politically aware. In response to the paralyzing realization that we are complicit in an industry that perpetuates racism and classism, Dr. Kalmanovitch challenges us to imagine a better way by asking a simple question: “What If?” Tanya’s Website: http://www.tanyakalmanovitch.com...

In this episode, we talk to our former professor Dr. Noriko Manabe about her research on the intersection between Capitalism and technology in the music industry. We discuss the limitations that systems impose on the kinds of music that are created and distributed, how the system shape our tastes, and how music is utilized in protests. We are honored to have Dr. Manabe as our teacher and guest. Dr...

In this episode, we talk to Yibiao Wang about shedding our labels and seeing past the conventions set by music schools and conservatories. We assert that the act of unlearning is just as important and powerful as the process of learning itself. Follow Yibiao on instagram @yibiao.wang & listen to his music at www.soundcloud.com/yibsy

In this episode, we talk to foster parent and pet sitter Mônica da Costa about utilizing creativity in our interactions with animals. We discuss our personal experiences with animal rescue and how caring for animals has enriched our lives. MoniMutts: https://www.monimutts.com/ Philadelphia No-Kill: http://nokillphilly.org/ Philly PAWS: https://phillypaws.org/ ACCT Philly: http://www.acctphilly.org...

In this episode, we talk to our former professor Dr. Cynthia Folio about the life events that shaped her musical career. From growing up in a military family to having a special needs daughter, Dr. Folio’s unique circumstances have greatly influenced her music-making and compositions. We are honored to have Dr. Folio as our teacher and guest. Check out Dr. Folio’s work at https://www.cynthiafolio....

In this episode, we talk to John Fulton about his creative inspirations and his experience living with ADD. We discuss the ways in which our society stifles creativity, diving into the pressure to assimilate and the notion that creativity cannot be cultivated. Find John on Instagram @johnfuton ! Instagram: @creative.baggage Twitter: @baggagecreative

In this episode, we chat with Ashwin Suseendran about the ins and outs of music education. We discuss achieving a state where music-making and teaching become second nature, which we call “stream of consciousness.” We also address the importance of diversity, accessibility, and flexibility in music curriculums. Follow Ashwin on Instagram @psychedelicacademic! Instagram: @creative.baggage Twitter:...