Around The Piano

On this special episode of Around the Piano, host Tim Paul sits down with legendary singer, songwriter, and performer Melissa Manchester for an intimate conversation about the music that has touched generations. Melissa shares the inspiration and personal stories behind some of her most beloved songs, including Midnight Blue, Come in from the Rain, Don't Cry Out Loud, and the Academy Award–nom...

On this episode of Around the Piano Podcast, host Tim Paul sits down with David McHugh, the innovator behind the groundbreaking Percoustix Guitar. David shares the story behind developing an instrument designed to expand what a single guitarist can do—blending rhythm, percussion, and melody into one expressive performance tool. The conversation explores the inspiration behind the Percoustix concep...

Rock vocalist Paulie Z joins Around the Piano for an electrifying conversation about his journey from Brooklyn stages to performing around the world. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Paulie discovered his passion for music early and quickly found his place on stage as the lead singer and guitarist in local rock bands including Legend, Splivey Cool, and CO2. His breakthrough came with the pow...

On this episode of Around the Piano, we sit down with renowned Chapman Stick artist Tom Griesgraber to explore innovation, creativity, and the evolution of modern instrumental music. Tom is known for his progressive, cinematic, and ambient soundscapes — all created using the Chapman Stick, a rare and visually striking 10- or 12-string instrument designed for two-handed tapping. Unlike traditional...

In this episode of Around the Piano, host Tim Paul sits down with John Mueller, nationally recognized Buddy Holly tribute artist and creator of the Winter Dance Party® tour. John shares his journey as a performer, what it takes to honor an iconic legacy on stage, and the passion behind keeping classic rock ’n’ roll alive for new generations. A relaxed, honest conversation about music, storytelling...

In this short 15-minute episode, we sit down with Willem van der Meij, creator of Midian Prime, a patent-pending wireless MIDI trigger controller that lets musicians and performers discreetly trigger tracks, pads, lights, and effects from anywhere onstage. We dive into what inspired the product, how it works, and why it’s changing the way live performers interact with their gear.📺 There’s also a...

Before taking the stage at the Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake on Friday, January 30th, we welcome back Denny Diamond, a celebrated Neil Diamond tribute artist, for a special follow-up episode of Around the Piano. Since his last appearance, Denny has continued to captivate audiences with his powerful vocals, authentic stage presence, and heartfelt tribute to one of music’s most iconic per...

🎄✨ Holiday Mash-Up 2025 | A 216 Creator Studios Original ✨🎄Get ready to celebrate the season in true community style! Our Holiday Mash-Up 2025 brings together Let’s Talk Local and Around the Piano for a one-of-a-kind festive special highlighting the heart, talent, and spirit of McHenry County. This joyful mash-up features incredible local voices, inspiring stories, and talented artists perform...

In this episode of Around the Piano, host Tim Paul, owner of Piano Trends, welcomes Elton Rohn, the acclaimed Elton John tribute artist portrayed by musician Ron Camilleri, for an intimate conversation centered on music, performance, and the piano. Ron Camilleri is a classically trained pianist, vocalist, and lifelong performer who has built a national reputation through his tribute act Elton Rohn...

In this episode of Around the Piano, we’re joined by John Mlynczak, President and CEO of NAMM (The National Association of Music Merchants). Our conversation spans everything from the excitement and vision behind the upcoming NAMM Show to the broader Careers in Music initiative that’s shaping the future of the industry. John shares his personal journey, musical background, and the influences that...

Hosted by Tim Paul and Drew Cappuccino, this second installment of Around the Piano: Careers in Music continues the deep dive into the world of professional musicianship. Returning guest Eric Abel joins in-studio with special guest Craig Colson, a talented musician and composer known for his dynamic performances and diverse musical background. Together, they share real stories from their journeys...

In this episode of Around the Piano, host Tim Paul sits down with Mike Sherman, Vice President of Sales and long-time performer at Felix & Fingers, to uncover the story behind one of the nation’s most successful dueling piano entertainment companies. Mike shares how Felix & Fingers grew from a small idea into a thriving live entertainment brand, performing at weddings, corporate events, an...

In this special edition of Around the Piano News Letter , we sit down with the incredible French band Rosaway to talk about their current tour, unique sound, and what inspires their music! We also share the latest updates from 216 Creator Studios and Piano Trends Music & Band — including what’s new, what’s next, and how our creative community continues to grow. Tune in for music, conversation,...

🎙️ Around the Piano with Randall Corbit In this special episode, host Tim Paul and Drew Casiccio sit down with author and artist Randall Corbit for a conversation that blends creativity, storytelling, and music. Randall shares his journey as a writer and visual artist, the inspirations behind his work, and how the arts intersect in his life. From exploring the discipline of writing to the freedom...

Guests Thomas Claxton of "Me, Myself and Us" Concert series Eric Ebel - Senior Program Manager at NAMM (national Careers in Music ATP Dives into inspiring conversations about the Career in Music Initiative—where passion meets profession. From unexpected journeys to dream-come-true moments, we spotlight musicians, educators, and industry pros who’ve turned their love for music into thrivi...

Around the Piano – where stories, strategy, and soul meet. In this episode, we’re honored to be joined by Fiona Joy Hawkins, the internationally acclaimed pianist and composer from Australia whose music transcends genres and borders. Known for her ethereal style and emotional depth, Fiona shares her journey through the world of contemporary instrumental music, her creative process, and the power o...

Around the Piano – where stories, strategy, and soul meet. In this episode, we sit down with none other than Bob Phibbs – The Retail Doctor, a global retail expert and motivational speaker who’s helped transform thousands of businesses with his sharp insights and high-energy approach. We dive into his journey, his thoughts on the future of retail, and how creativity and connection are still the ke...

Around the Piano with host Tim Paul returns with a special guest — country/pop sensation Mackenzie O'Brien! Back for another heartfelt conversation, Mackenzie shares her latest updates, musical journey, and what’s next on her horizon. From the stage to the studio, we dive into what fuels her creativity and what fans can expect in the months ahead. Tune in for stories, laughs, and honest reflec...

Around the Piano with Tim Paul welcomes acclaimed pianist and composer Ann Sweeten—a classically trained artist known for her emotive, genre-blending New Age music. With over a dozen chart-topping albums, Ann brings depth, resilience, and grace to every note she plays. In this episode, she sits down with Tim to share her creative process, the stories behind her music, and how personal challenges h...

In this episode, we sit down with award-winning pianist and composer Ed Bazel to explore his unique musical journey—from growing up in Huntington, West Virginia, to performing in 4-star hotels, and eventually recording at legendary studios like Abbey Road and Skywalker Sound. Once dubbed “The Marco Polo of Modern Music” for his pioneering entertainment work in China, Ed shares how his late start i...

From sneaking into the Sahara’s Congo Room at 23 to replacing the Everly Brothers as Nancy Sinatra’s opening act, Bob’s rise to fame reads like a Hollywood script. Endorsed by legends like Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin, he’s wowed audiences with his uncanny impressions and powerful vocals across over 200 TV appearances and sold-out Las Vegas shows. He’s the man behind FRANK The Man...

In this special finale of our NAMM 2025 coverage, we dive into all the incredible moments we didn’t get to in Part 1—more gear, more performances, and more behind-the-scenes stories from the floor. After the recap and reflection, we sit down with the vibrant band Pulpo Connecta for an exclusive interview, followed by a conversation with the dynamic Berry Atticks—and we close it all out with their...

We’re closing out our NAMM 2025 series with a finale full of heart and harmony. In this episode, we catch up with a few more incredible voices from the floor—including bassist Carmine Rojas and vocalist Thomas Claxton—as well as other talented musicians and singers who brought their unique sound to the event. Join us for a fitting end to an unforgettable series.

Back for an encore! In this special follow-up episode, local band Yhprum returns to the mic to catch us up on everything that’s changed since their last interview—new plans, upcoming performances, and a peek into what’s next. It’s all candid conversation, behind-the-scenes insight, and, of course, a live mini-session featuring three original tracks to close out the show. If you’re into local music...

In this episode Tim hangs out with the European Pop team Rosaway and continues the conversation from NAMM. Find out what makes these artists keep time to the music and what is next on their playlist. 216 The Net-Real Life Internet Radio/216 Creator Studios ⁠https://216thenet.com⁠ ~ 216thenet@gmail.com ~ ascap license 400007852Check us out on YouTube! like /Share/Subscribe ⁠https://www.youtube.com/...