Penthesilea On Air

What does it take to build and sustain a career at the highest level? In this bonus Q&A episode, Emily Beynon answers questions from the Penthesilea community and talks about auditions, touring life, performance pressure, daily routines, andthe often-unspoken mental and emotional challenges of professional musicianship. Would you like to hear more? Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠www.penthesileaonair...

What does it take to build and sustain a career at the highest level? In this episode, Karin Bonelli talks with Emily Beynon (principal flute Concertgebouw Orkest Amsterdam) about auditions, touring life, performance pressure, daily routines, and the often-unspoken mental and emotional challenges of professional musicianship. Would you like to hear more? Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠www.penthesileaonai...

In this bonus Q&A episode, Dr. Molly Gebrian answers questions from the Penthesilea community about practicing, performing and learning as a musician. Dr. Molly Gebrian answers the following questions: Should practice focus more on weaknesses, and how do strengths fit into the practice process? Should you practice when you are extremely tired, or is rest the better choice? Why do some musician...

In this enlightening conversation, Molly Gebrian shares insights on how neuroscience can enhance practice efficiency for musicians. She discusses the importance of breaks, optimal timing, and setting clear goals for practice sessions. The conversation also delves into managing performance anxiety, the role of mental practice, and understanding memory in performance. Molly emphasizes the need for b...

His weak spot? Ironing. His zone of genius? Motivating people and helping them believe in themselves. Giuliano Sommerhalder’s CV is extraordinary: principal positions in some of Europe’s leading orchestras, a distinguished solo career, exceptional chamber music collaborations, and teaching roles at three major universities. In this episode, we explore the full spectrum of excellence required to su...

In this episode, we step again into a world where music, mental health, and medicine intersect – with special guest Heidi Brandi, musician, therapist, and founder of the Center for Professional Musicians in Hamburg . Heidi shares what inspired her to found the center in 2013, alongside Professors Hugo Schmale and Christian Kunert. Her main motivation was to create a space dedicated to the physical...

In this episode, I had the immense honor of speaking with Tara Mohr, internationally renowned leadership coach and author of the groundbreaking book  Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead . This conversation felt like a dream come true - for me personally and as a coach. Tara’s work, celebrated in  The New York Times  and  Harvard Business Review , explores...

Have you ever wondered what really happens after winning an orchestra audition? In this episode, I talk to Gudrun Hinze about the often overlooked challenges of the trial period and how to navigate this crucial phase with confidence and heart. Gudrun shares her personal journey and the lessons she learned about resilience, musical identity, and staying connected to your love for music. If you’re r...

How can we stay creative and relaxed during auditions instead of falling into tension and perfectionism? In this episode, I talk to Dr. Eckart Altenmüller about how our brain works when we make music – and what it takes to stay healthy, motivated, and musically fulfilled in the long run. We explore topics like neuroplasticity, mental preparation, and how to handle pressure in a sustainable way. If...

Have you ever achieved something you worked for, only to realize it wasn’t what you expected? In this episode, I talk to career strategist Angela Beeching about the myths of success in the music industry and what really matters when building a fulfilling career. We dive into resilience, unexpected career shifts, and how to navigate the moments when things don’t go as planned. If you're looking...

How do you handle stage fright? Is it really possible to step on stage with ease, without being consumed by perfectionism and self-doubt? In this episode, I talk to Dr. Michael Bohne, one of Germany’s leading performance coaches, about building mental strength, boosting self-worth, and discovering unexpected ways to feel freer on stage. Dr. Bohne shares fascinating insights into his PEP technique...

In this episode, I have the privilege of talking to the amazing Alain Altinoglu, one of the most celebrated conductors of our time. We explore how he balances a demanding career with personal well-being, the art of communicating with orchestras, and the surprising lessons he learns along the way. Alain shares inspiring and eye-opening insights into the world of classical music. Join me for a conve...

In this episode of "Penthesilea On Air," I sit down with Dr. Veronika Jana Lubert to explore the crucial role of mental training for musicians. Discover how psychological techniques can help overcome performance anxiety and enhance your musical expression. Veronika shares valuable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full musical potential. We discuss how targeted mental t...

In this podcast episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Elizabeth Rowe, a talented flutist who made the bold decision to leave her role as principal flutist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra after two decades.  Elizabeth shares with us her deep-seated reasons for pursuing a path filled with new meanings outside the world of classical performance. We dive into the emotional and practical as...

In today's episode of the "Penthesilea On Air"-Podcast, I engage in a detailed conversation with Roman Rindberger. Roman, a valued head coach for trumpet students at our Penthesilea Academy, is also a skilled instructor of the transformative Wim Hof method. Throughout our dialogue, he sheds light on how this method is particularly beneficial for musicians, focusing on its powerful co...

In this enlightening episode, I am joined by Dr. Katja Schlemitz, a renowned Vienna-based doctor with a passion for holistic health care for musicians. Together, we dive deep into pressing health issues musicians often face, such as the battle against sleep disorders and the toll of stress on the immune system. Dr. Katya shares her wealth of knowledge on the transformative impact of nutrition and...

In this engaging first podcast episode, I, Karin Bonelli, flutist with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and founder of Penthesilea Academy, delve into a meaningful conversation with Barry Green, renowned for his time with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and his impactful book, "The Inner Game of Music." Our discussion spans the crucial role of mindset in enhancing stage presence, the...

Welcome to Penthesilea On Air, the podcast for classical musicians seeking to enhance their artistry, performance, and well-being. I'm Karin Bonelli, and I'm here to share the essence of our journey together through Penthesilea Academy, and this podcast. My vision is to create a space for passionate musicians who are eager to grow beyond the conventional boundaries of classical music educa...