crescendo: building the future of the arts

In the final episode of season one, Rick and Jared reflect on their experiences and conversations from the first eleven episodes. In addition to identifying common themes, surprising topics, and validating conversations, they run through some topics they are interested in covering in a future season! Later, they are joined by Ryan Taylor , MN Opera’s President and General Director, who talks about...

On this episode, Rick and Jared sit down to answer some of the outstanding questions posed by Minnesota Opera’s Youth Opera alumni. From career building questions to vocal health-related concerns, this lightning round Q&A covers a variety of topics that are important to young artists.  Hosts: Rick X. Hoops, Jared Mikach Producer: Rocky Jones -- New episodes of crescendo: building the futu...

In this episode of crescendo: building the future of the arts, Rick and Jared talk about finding work-life balance in artistic spaces. They speak to the importance of sleep, nutrition, advocating for yourself, setting and upholding boundaries, and other often ignored topics that are key to maintaining a sustainable career and healthy life. They will also talk with MN Opera VP, Production Karen Qui...

On this episode of crescendo: building the future of the arts , Rick and Jared take it to the business side of things. From stipend amounts and price setting, to income tracking, to networking and building a business, they get into the nitty-gritty subjects we wish we had learned sooner. They also talk to local soprano and Development Officer at Minnesota Opera, Siena Forest . She is an accomplish...

On this episode of crescendo: building the future of the arts , Rick and Jared discuss how to find balance as an artist who is also a teacher. They will talk about their journeys into arts education, address common misconceptions, and break down the changes they’ve  noticed in our teaching styles over time. Later in the episode, they will chat with fellow Youth Programs Music Director Sara Sa...

On this episode of crescendo: building the future of the arts , Rick and Jared discuss the importance of community engagement in nonprofit organizations. They talk about some pitfalls that organizations can fall into, some alternative ways of engagement, and why these topics and practices are important for young artists to be aware of. Later in the episode, Rick and Jared chat with Dr. Darius...

On this week's episode of crescendo: building the future of the arts , Jared and Rick discuss balancing parenthood and caregiving in the performing arts. They chat about their own limited experiences with caregiving and identify a variety of different caregiving responsibilities—from parenting children to elder care to community care and beyond. Rick and Jared also reflect on their experiences wor...

On today's episode of crescendo , Jared and Rick will discuss the importance of being a versatile artist, from different vocal techniques to acting to a variety of special talents. They will talk about how they’ve used their varied knowledge and experiences to inform every aspect of their art making. Later in the episode, they will speak with soprano Symone Harcum about her various experiences wit...

On this episode of crescendo , Jared and Rick discuss moving through defensiveness, learning to be directable, showing respect in artistic spaces, and teaching in a variety of styles. They’ll chat about their experiences with ageism, the differences between earned respect and assumed respect, and finding their own ways to learn that fit their own personal circumstances. This episode’s guest,...

On this episode of crescendo , Jared and Rick talk about a common challenge for young artists: maintaining a positive self-image. They'll open up about some of their own struggles with self-esteem as young artists and give tips to building confidence and managing negative self-talk. This episode's guest, soprano and Resident Artist, Keely Futterer (she/her) will join our hosts to share about her t...

Welcome back to the second episode of Minnesota Opera’s new podcast, crescendo: building the future of the arts ! This podcast aims to provide artists of any age with current perspectives in navigating performance art industries. On this episode, Rick and Jared talk about how to define success as an artist. They will explore images of success in their respective career paths and compare that to th...

Welcome to Minnesota Opera's new podcast,  crescendo: building the future of the arts !  crescendo  is a new podcast that aims to provide young artists and anyone curious about a career in the arts with current perspectives on navigating performance art industries. On today's episode, join our hosts Rick and Jared as they talk about their personal journeys as young artists and profe...

Let’s shake things up! Welcome to Minnesota Opera's brand new podcast, crescendo: building the future of the arts . Hosts Rick X. Hoops (they/he) and Jared Miller (he/him) are both members of the Impact team at MN Opera, who have been friends for nearly 10 years. They are also two young, queer artists and educators who prioritize creating affirming, accessible spaces that foster sustainability and...