The Mind Over Finger Podcast

I'm so excited to start 2019 with a wonderful guest, violinist Chloe Trevor! Chloe and I discuss practicing and performing from several perspectives.  We talk about dealing with injuries, practicing mindfully, how making practice videos can really help us progress faster, how to prepare for performances, and many other things! She has many wonderful tips and tricks in store for you, and I know you...

In this episode, I'm very excited to be talking to someone who's had a tremendous impact on my performance abilities: none other than Dr. Don Greene.  If you don't know who Dr. Greene is (or you do but you've never checked out his work), this episode might just change everything about the way you prepare for concerts and auditions!   He is THE authority on performance success for musicians! This i...

This episode shows a different type of musical journey and approach to music-making outside of the classical world! I speak with bass player Kaveh Rastegar about his journey building a successful and varied international career, and his hands-on approach to creating music and to practicing. Kaveh is highly on-demand in the LA scene and collaborates with some of today's most popular artists like Ce...

Today, I speak with composer Jim Stephenson.  Among many other topics, we discuss his transition from performer to full-time composer, why it's important to look inside and listen to our instinct, why we need to have the right mindset in building a career we love, and how to harness focus in our work.   Jim's story is a testament to the incredible things that can happen when one follows a calling...

In this episode, I speak with Jason Haaheim, principal timpanist with NY's Metropolitan Opera since 2013.   We discuss his fascinating journey, going from working full-time as an engineer to holding one of the most coveted position in the world.  He applied the principles of deliberate practice in his life in a way that will amaze and inspire you!  Jason's experience and insight on deliberate prac...

In this episode, I chat with Marina Thibeault, solo violist and chamber musician.  We discuss mindfulness, presence, and efficiency in the practice room, the importance of letting the music sing when we play, and her upcoming new recording featuring works by women composers.  Her and I also have a little surprise for our French speaking listeners: we will continue the discussion in French followin...

In this episode, Paul Merkelo, principal trumpet with the Montreal Symphony, active soloist, pedagogue, and philanthropist, talks about how, as musicians, we need to take ownership of our careers, nurture opportunities, focus on developing out artistry and our voice, and have a "quality over quantity" approach to practicing. Paul offers amazing insight, great practicing tips, and extremely valuabl...

Mezzo-soprano Wallis Giunta is a multi-faceted artist with a variety of interests, a great take on mindful practice, and a truly wonderful personality.  In our conversation, we discuss, among other things, the importance of making choices that will allow you to thrive, how she prepares for a role, and how she uses mental practice to learn and memorize music at a deeper level. We elaborate on: Her...

This week on the podcast, I talk with neuro-symphonic hornist and creator of the practice app, Modacity.  Marc brings an incredible versatility to music making and has an inspiring holistic approach to practicing and living music. We discuss: Hi versatile background, developing skills and acquiring knowledge in many areas – music, neuroscience, coding, meditation, wisdom traditions What being a ne...

First Associate Concertmaster with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the creative mind behind Natesviolin, Nathan Cole has incredible insight on practice and performance preparation!  In this episode, he discusses:   His path, from Suzuki beginner, to Curtis student, to the LA Phil, via the St-Paul Chamber Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony How he organizes his time for productivity The importance...

International viola soloist Matthew Lipman can be heard on the best stages around the world!  In this episode he discusses his road to success, how to practice and get ready for a competition, and the importance of mental preparation before a performance. He elaborates on: The importance of music education in the schools and the important of funding for music an arts programs in our public schools...

Denise Tryon, Associate Professor of Horn at the College Conservatory of Music of the University of Cincinatti and former Fourth Horn with the Philadelphia Orchestra, has built a wonderful career which combines teaching, performing, and expanding the repertoire of her instrument through active commissions.  Denise is a trail blazer in our field!  She has asked herself the hard questions and has no...

Concertmaster of the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera and new music champion, Holly Mulcahy redefines the profile of the 21st century musician.  Through her purposeful approach of music-making, she is able to genuinely connect and bring people together, and have powerful and positive impact in the music world and the community at large.  In this episode, we discuss: How going with the flow and being a...

International flute soloist, Mimi Stillman has a gift to make classical music current, relevant, and exciting.  In this episode, we discuss different ways to make practice more fun, efficient, and effective. We elaborate on: Why learning how to practice is so important How important it is for parents to reinforce what is said in the lessons at home Key elements of efficient practice: Practicing sl...

Bass player Jason Heath has built a vibrant career as a performer, educator, entrepreneur, and host of one of the most important classical music podcasts.  Through this experience, he has accumulated a vast knowledge on how to practice and grow a career into something that is authentic and rewarding. In this episode, Jason discusses: How Contrabass Conversations goes beyond the bass community is a...

In this episode, international violin soloist James Ehnes talks about what the essence of mindful instrumental practice is: having a clear goal, work efficiently, listen intently, and connect with others. He elaborates on: ​ His artistic journey – growing up in Brandon Manitoba, the practicing habits he developed as a child that helped him succeed, and the mentors that helped shape his career Prac...

Introducing The Mind Over Finger Podcast! Your resource for knowledge, insight and inspiration on practicing mindfully, performing optimally, and getting more intentional in creating a fulfilling musical career!   Subscribe now to receive our very first episode, featuring superstar violinist James Ehnes, in your podcast feed!