Enhance Life with Music

Discover how singing can be a lifeline, path to healing , and vital health indicator for those living with cystic fibrosis. Ashley Ballou-Bonnema is a professional vocalist, teacher, and writer whose own experience with singing and CF was transformational. Ashley founded the non-profit organization, Breathe Bravely, to help others combat the effects of CF and progressive lung disease through the s...

What happens when 45 of the most iconic musicians gather in one room for a single night? Magic, humanity, and a song that continues to change the world. The inspiring story behind We Are the World is a reminder that music has a unique power to dissolve barriers, amplify our shared humanity, and spark ripple effects that make the world a better place for generations to come.   Links and notes relat...

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is both an incredible in-person experience AND an education and outreach hub that reaches beyond its onsite visitors. We discuss the Taylor Swift Education Center, innovative resources available to parents and educators everywhere, and music's ability to foster connection and cultural awareness. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https...

As we dive into 2025, this special message is for parents of young musicians. Music lessons are so much more than notes and rhythms—they're a gateway to perseverance, confidence, self-discipline, creativity, and lifelong success. Discover how the gift of music today shapes timeless skills your child will carry forever!   Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusi...

Scientific evidence supports the health benefits of the arts and neuroaesthetics. The Arts on Prescription model provides the infrastructure to allow arts activities (such as a concert) to be prescribed by your healthcare provider as part of your wellness plan. At the forefront of this model is Dr. Tasha Golden, who co-authored a groundbreaking guide on this fusion of arts, nature, and healthcare....

One hundred ten years ago this Christmas Eve, music sparked an unexpected moment of peace on a war-torn battlefield. Hear how a simple carol transformed a battlefield and ushered in peace, connection, and joy. Music has a profound ability to unite, heal, and foster humanity even in the darkest times. May this powerful story of shared humanity leave you with a renewed sense of inspiration and hope...

Dr. Jenna Mikus is an architect, engineer, and well-being expert whose unique approach to design blends science, art, and music to create spaces that promote health and flourishing. We dive into the fascinating concept of eudaemonia, explore the importance of sound in environments, and discuss how Dr. Mikus' musical background continues to shape her work in neuroarchitecture. Discover how intentio...

What's the secret to making your holidays unforgettable? Music! From nostalgic carols to fresh new tunes, live shows to cozy piano duets, discover how to create a festive soundtrack that brings joy, comfort, and cherished memories to your season. Whether you're decking the halls or finding solace during tough times, this episode will inspire you to enhance your celebrations with the magic of music...

What happens when a world-class conductor, a brewmaster, and a passion for music education collide? You get MetroNOME Brewery—a craft beer haven with a mission to fund music education and provide instruments for youth. Join me as I chat with co-founder Bill Eddins about how this St. Paul brewery is "playing it forward, one pint at a time." Links and notes related to this episode can be found at ht...

Can a simple song change a heart? A timeless holiday tale's impact is deepened, growing hearts and holiday spirit three sizes. Discover how a single melody can break barriers, spark joy, and remind us of what really matters. Join me as we uncover the magic that even the Grinch couldn't resist! Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/micro21 Connec...

What role did music play historically in Native American culture, and in what ways has this changed or remained the same? How have Native musicians influenced modern music? Dr. Anton Treuer, author of "Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask," shares powerful insights into the deep connection between music, tradition, and resilience in Native communities. From ceremonial...

Is your student or child facing new frustrations in their learning journey? This episode is all about a powerful mindset shift that can change the way they approach challenges. We explore the importance of a growth mindset—a perspective that encourages students to see effort, setbacks, and mistakes as essential parts of learning and success instead of threats to their self-worth. This shift can be...

Award-winning pianist and composer AyseDeniz is expanding classical music's reach by blending tradition and technology in fascinating ways. She's using AI not only to bring classical music to new audiences but also to imagine what the legendary   composers (think Chopin and Mozart) might have composed if they were alive in the digital age. AyseDeniz shares insights on economic factors at play, the...

Imagine the power of world-class musicians bringing classical music into spaces where hope and beauty are often distant memories. In this episode, I recount my moving experience attending a concert inside a prison, organized by the Looking at the Stars Foundation. As the music filled the room, it created a profound sense of connection and transformation among a truly unique audience. Hear how musi...

Dr. Anita Collins, who I consider the global godmother of music advocacy, has been working for six years on a simplified music advocacy method. This distilled, efficient method is now available and is designed to empower musicians and educators everywhere to confidently and effectively advocate for music education. Infuse these steps into your work to exponentially expand the life-changing impact...

From the intimate power of live performances to unique community partnerships, discover how chamber music nourishes both the soul and the community. I share my incredible experience with ProMusica Minnesota, a world-class chamber music ensemble in Southern Minnesota. Hear tips on attending these transformative concerts and how joining a music organization's board can make a meaningful difference....

Sara Auster is a world-renowned sound therapist and author of "Sound Bath: Meditate, Heal and Connect Through Listening." We explore the profound effects of sound baths, from their ability to promote healing and mindfulness to their growing recognition in the wellness world. Sara shares her journey into sound therapy, how sound affects the mind and body, and the science behind this immersive exper...

Fall is here, and just like we cozy up with warm sweaters and comfort food, our playlists can provide warmth, tranquility, and mental recalibration. A curated fall playlist eases us into autumn, grounds us, and helps us fully experience the present season. Like a soft sweater for your soul, find out how music can be the perfect companion for the crisp days ahead.   Links and notes related to this...

Can art, nature, and movement be just as powerful as medicine? In this episode, I'm joined by solutions-focused journalist Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure. We explore how social prescribing—using nonmedical resources like music, service, and belonging—can improve mental and physical health. Julia shares the science behind this approach, real-life success stories, and how it's spreading w...

Discover how cultural and creative cross-training fuels artistic innovation, from Paul McCartney's legendary approach to staying inspired, to my recent experience at Zip Zap Circus' mind-blowing MOYA production. Discover how the fusion of music, acrobatics, and storytelling creates a powerful blend of entertainment and social impact—reminding us that exposure to different art forms can ignite fres...

Whether you're a musician or simply a lover of life, the Alexander Technique offers tools that can be utilized by anyone looking to bring more ease, clarity, and joy to all they do in life. This time-tested and research-proven awareness and movement discipline offers holistic solutions to common obstacles with mind-body awareness techniques that are helpful for everyone, not just musicians. Intern...

Ever wondered what really drives your favorite musicians? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on musician biopics and documentaries, revealing how these captivating films deepen our connection to music, inspire creativity, and uncover the hidden stories behind the songs we love. You'll also learn the film theme that haunted me as a child! Join us for a journey beyond the stage and into the h...

In this episode, we're joined by the renowned Dr. Daniel Levitin, neuroscientist, musician, and bestselling author. We dive into his brand-new book, I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine . Dr. Levitin reveals why he wrote the book, how he chose the title, his definition of music, and this new book's relationship to his earlier best-selling book, This is Your Brain on Music. Discover...

Discover how music unites us, celebrates diversity, and keeps traditions alive. Attending a vibrant cultural event with a friend highlighted for me music's strength and ubiquity in connecting us to our cultural roots. Music provides a vehicle to preserve heritage and celebrate our diverse identities, and music serves as a bridge to cultural heritage and identity. Links and notes related to this ep...

Taylor Ullom has deep and extensive personal and familial ties with the military – and with music. Taylor is a US Air Force veteran who has dedicated herself to promoting mental health awareness and alternative therapies like music for enhancing the lives of veterans and military families. She shares her powerful journey and personal experiences that fueled her passions for music and veterans' adv...