Shows
The Conductor's PodcastHow I Use Recordings for Score StudyDo you also use recordings to help your score study process? Today I am going to share a few things that I do with recordings!1. See the many interpretational possibilities regarding tempi, balance, or conducting patterns.2. Check what I might have missed in your score study (dynamics, chord change, important lines, or bringing out a different layer)3. Memory check when memorizing the score4. Know what might need rehearsals5. Help visualize the score6. The choreography of conducting gestures,7. Bowings consultance2024-11-2120 minThe Conductor's PodcastAsk Me Anything with Band ConductorsLive recording from an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Panel Discussion on May 20, 2024. The session was moderated by my colleague Dr. Janet Kim, and our panelists were:Shelley Axelson, Director of Bands, Radford UniversityJulia Baumanis, Associate Director of Bands, Rutgers UniversityTina Dimeglio, Associate Director of Bands, University of South FloridaIf you missed my interview with Julia Baumanis in Season 1 Episode 31 where we spoke about her journey as a band director, check out: https://theconductorspodcast.com/podcast/31/All About Chaowen...2024-11-071h 08
The Conductor's PodcastKevin FitzgeraldCatching up with returning guest Kevin Fitzgerald :)Make sure you check out or revisit my interview with Kevin in Season 2 when we talked about audition preparation and navigating the business:https://theconductorspodcast.com/podcast/s2e7/ANDhttps://theconductorspodcast.com/podcast/s2e8/All About Chaowen Ting 2024-10-241h 19The Conductor's PodcastKey Preperations for Competitions (and As a Conductor in General)Five key preparation factors for competitions (and as a good conductor in general!)1. Know the score inside out2. Have (form and be very firm) your own opinion about the music3. Have enough techniques to deliver your ideas4. Keep a high energy and engage musicians at all times5. Develop problem solving skills - rehearsal techniques, interruptions from the jury, being asked to do a piece you are less good atAll About Chaowen Ting 2024-10-1017 minThe Conductor's PodcastAsk Me Anything with Choral ConductorsLive recording from an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Panel Discussion on May 6, 2024. The session was moderated by my colleague Dr. Janet Kim, and our panelists were:Arianne Abela, Director of the Choral Program, Amherst CollegeMaria A. Ellis, the Girl ConductorAmanda Hanzlik, Director of Choirs, E.O. Smith High School; President - Elect, ACDA Eastern RegionLiana Salinas, Artistic Director, Miami Children's ChorusIf you missed my interview with Maria A. Ellis in Season 1 Episode 2 where I interviewed someone...2024-09-2658 min
The Conductor's PodcastAnna Sułkowska-MigońVery happy to welcome Anna Sułkowska-Migoń, the winner of the 2022 La Maestra Competition in Paris, where I was a quarter-finalist. Anna and I talked about her experience after the competition, her growth and challenges, and what she has learned in her journey. This interview was recorded in May 2024 when Anna was expecting her daughter and we wish her and her family a wonderful start of this new chapter.Learn more about Anna: https://annasulkowskamigon.com/All About Chaowen Ting 2024-09-121h 19The Conductor's PodcastAsk Me Anything with Orchestra Conductors - Education / YouthLive recording from an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Panel Discussion on May 3, 2024. The panelists of the sessions were:Juhi Bensal, composer, conductor, and educatorJoanna Drimatis, Music Director and Chief Conductor, Beecroft OrchestraKatie LaBrie, composer, conductor, and educatorAll About Chaowen Ting 2024-08-291h 19The Conductor's PodcastAsk Me Anything with Opera ConductorsLive recording from an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Panel Discussion on April 28, 2024. The panelists of the sessions were:Marta Gardolinska, Music Director, Opera national de LorraineStephanie Rhodes Russell, Founder, Women’s Artistic Leadership Initiative; Guest Conductor, Wolf Trap Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Washington National OperaMichelle Rofrano, Artistic Director, PROTESTRA; Guest Conductor, Madison Opera, City Lyric Opera, Curtis Institute of MusicIf you missed my interview with Michelle Rofrano in Season 1 Episode 3 where we discussed programming for social causes, make sure to re...2024-08-011h 28The Conductor's PodcastMy Thoughts on Conducting CompetitionsI've always thought that I wasn't a good competition type of conductor, until I realized that I actually convinced myself that I wasn't good in a certain area so I didn't need to continue improving myself.From 2022, I entered La Maestra Competition in Paris, won the 3rd Prize at Kussewitzky Competition 2023 and 2nd Prize at the Mendelssohn Competition 2024. In this season's episodes, I will be sharing more what I've learned in my journey.But before that, my thoughts on conducting competitions - they are just one of the many events that are going to shape...2024-07-1827 min
The Conductor's PodcastAndrea BrownI finally had the pleasure to meet and speak with Dr. Andrea Brown, Associate Director of Bands at the University of Maryland. Previously served as director of orchestra and assistant director of bands at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta and assistant director of bands at the University of Michigan, we spoke about her experience as a conductor and the founder of “Women Rising to the Podium.”All About Chaowen Ting 2024-07-0456 minThe Conductor's PodcastAsk Me Anything with Orchestra ConductorsLive recording from an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Panel Discussion on April 3, 2024. The panelists of the sessions were:𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗮 𝗕𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗹, 2024 Sphinx Medal of Excellence & former Assistant Conductor, Memphis Symphony𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗶 𝗥𝘂𝘀𝘀𝗼, Dudamel Fellow, LA Philharmonic; Associate Conductor, North Carolina Symphony𝗙𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮 𝗟𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮, Assistant Conductor & Diversity Fellow, Buffalo Philharmonic𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗻𝘆 𝗫𝗶𝗮, Associate Conductor, Seattle SymphonyIf you missed my interview with Kalena Bovell in Season 1 Episode 14 where we discussed time management skills, make sure to revisit it: https://theconductorspodcast.com/podcast/14/All About Chaowen Ting 2024-06-201h 12
The Conductor's PodcastChloé DufresneMy first in person interview for the podcast with conductor Chloé Dufresne, recorded on February 23, 2024 when she visited Atlanta through the Villa Albertine artist residence program with the French Consulate in Atlanta. We talked about her conducting training, experiences with American and European orchestras, and current and upcoming projects.Learn more about Chloé: https://www.chloedufresne.com/All About Chaowen Ting 2024-06-0646 minThe Conductor's Podcast3 Biggest Mistakes at Conducting Competitions and WorkshopsBased on my experiences teaching conducting workshops and participating in competitions, the three biggest mistakes are:1. Worrying so much about the ensemble problems when you are the one causing the problems.2. Only concerned about your conducting, your vision of the music and fail to connect with musicians. 3. Thinking that it’s only about conducting - how about your leadership styles, interpersonal skills, and the way you present yourself?All About Chaowen Ting 2024-05-2312 minThe Conductor's PodcastOur Unique JourneysWelcome back to season 3 of The Conductor’s Podcast. In this season I will be sharing things I’ve learned this past year, my experiences participating in competitions, interviews with some new and old friends, and live recordings of several Girls Who Conduct webinars!All About Chaowen Ting 2024-05-2304 min
The Conductor's PodcastWhy You Need a Career Coach with Karen CubidesLast week I spoke with Karen on Marketing for Musicians, and we discussed boundaries and showing your uniqueness to the world, and understand who you are serving.In today's conversation, I spoke with Karen about another part of her specialty - career coach, and dig into how people have different definitions of success, and to find the answers from within.Karen Cubides is the passionate and engaging founder and CEO of the Karen Cubides Agency based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her holistic approach to coaching her clients allows her to serve a wide range...2023-10-0226 min
The Conductor's PodcastMarketing 101 for Musicians with Karen CubidesToday's episode is a must listen for musicians as we learn marketing for ourselves, create opportunities and put ourselves out there for business!Karen Cubides is the passionate and engaging founder and CEO of the Karen Cubides Agency based in Nashville, Tennessee. Her holistic approach to coaching her clients allows her to serve a wide range of well-established musicians and young professionals alike in unique and personal ways. Through her intimate understanding of the relationship between personal growth and professional achievement, Karen builds up the individual, the artist, and the professional within each of her...2023-09-1827 min
The Conductor's PodcastHow Much Should I Talk at Conducting Auditions?Conducting auditions are something that's hard to navigate as each organization and ensemble does look for different things, but no one would disqualify a good conductor!Typically, an audition for an assistant conductor would be only 10-15 minutes, while a music director audition might be a full rehearsal (2-3 hour), or even a concert cycle consisting 4-6 rehearsals, depending on the ensemble's schedule.My objective of all conducting auditions is to share my musical ideas with the ensemble while demonstrating a representation of how my typical rehearsal flows.Some Tips:...2023-09-0419 min
The Conductor's PodcastNavigating the Business with Kevin FitzgeraldToday’s episode is the second half of my conversation with a long-time friend, Kevin Fitzgerald, current Associate Conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony.Last week we spoke about preparing for job applications and auditions, and today we will continue the conversation and hear all the behind the scene stories of navigating the business.As 2021 Tanglewood Music Center Conducting Fellow and four-time recipient of Career Assistance Grants from The Solti Foundation U.S., Kevin Fitzgerald is at the forefront of the next generation of conductors. Recently, Kevin was invited as one of the twenty conductors to pa...2023-08-2122 min
The Conductor's PodcastApplication and Audition Prep with Kevin FitzgeraldIn today's episode, you will hear the first half of my conversation with a long-time friend, Kevin Fitzgerald, current Associate Conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony. We went way back to my years at the Eastman School of Music, and it's such a pleasure to speak with him on the topic of preparing for job applications and auditions.As 2021 Tanglewood Music Center Conducting Fellow and four-time recipient of Career Assistance Grants from The Solti Foundation U.S., Kevin Fitzgerald is at the forefront of the next generation of conductors. Recently, Kevin was invited as one of...2023-08-0738 min
The Conductor's PodcastThree Things Helping You Figure Out "What's Next"Should I enter a graduate program? Look for jobs? Go to masterclasses? Those are some questions that I got asked the most.For us conductors, we have to create our own curriculum, our own path, and to make decisions all the time.In today's episode, I will share with you three main factors to consider when figuring out "what's next:"YOUR MUSICIANSHIPYou have to be a good conductor, and that includes your techniques and your knowledge. Your being a good conductor is the most important thing you can deliver.So...2023-07-2411 min
The Conductor's PodcastBranding, Pitching and Social Media with Nicole RiccardoLast week I spoke with social media guru Nicole Riccardo about how musicians can create a meaningful online community through social media. She generously provided a lot of tips and suggestions for my listeners.When we talk about marketing, curating an image of our own for the world, it's unavoidable to discuss one's brand.Are you struggling with defining your "brand" or finding your "niche"? What are some possible ways we can market ourselves better through our social media presences and reach our career goals?In today's episode, you will hear the second...2023-07-1025 min
The Conductor's PodcastBuilding a Meaningful Online Community with Nicole RiccardoI am not a person who is naturally good at social media - when I say I'm an introvert, many people would seem surprised, but I am really awkward starting a conversation with strangers.Flutist turned digital marketer, Nicole Riccardo, the Founder & President of NR Media was introduced to me through a common flutist friend years ago when I was just naively debating whether I should learn more about social media and started to cultivate an online profile.In today's episode, you will hear the first half of our conversation focusing...2023-06-2633 min
The Conductor's PodcastHow to Kill your Diversity StatementDiversity Statement has become a more and more frequently asked application material. No matter you are applying for a music directorship or an educational role, the organization very often is interested in knowing your vision on diversity, inclusion, and equity. Feeling stuck as a straight white man (or anything else)? No worries, let me show you how to kill your diversity vision, and how to revive it. Best Ways to Kill Your Diversity Statement:Claiming that "I have a friend / daughter-son / husband-wife / student who is XXX (fill in an...2023-06-1210 min
The Conductor's PodcastThe Most Important Thing about your Zoom InterviewZoom Interviews are now more common since Covid - and organizations are often skipping the traditional phone interview and conduct a zoom interview for shortlisted candidates instead. If you've had unsuccessful zoom interviews in the past, you want to do a quick self-check and see if you've got it right, and know the purpose of the interview: to obtain enough interest in order advance to the next round Some Zoom Interview Setting Tips from my friend Tim Verville:Set up a nice corner with good light (not n...2023-05-2913 min
The Conductor's PodcastThree Mistakes to Avoid with String SectionalsAs the largest body of an orchestra, it's always great to have a string sectional to unify style, articulation, and even phrasing. If you are not a string player yourself, what are the mistakes to avoid when leading a string sectional?Instead of:Get stuck in bowing discussionsNot knowing your termsGive instructions on bowing or fingering Do this:Always have a set of bowings marked in the part before distributing them Describe the sounds you wantLet the principals / concertmaster adjust things as they see fitGet help, be over-prepared, and bring an open mind to se...2023-05-1513 min
The Conductor's PodcastConductors How ToWelcome Back to Season 2 of The Conductor's Podcast! With a carefully designed season, we will be focusing on Conductors How-To and share all the tips on planning efficient rehearsals, preparing for auditions, giving a great job interview, marketing and branding for musicians, and even more! All About Chaowen Ting 2023-05-1501 min
CAMP PodcastsSpecial Edition: Girls Who ConductIn this episode, CAMP president Eunmi Ko talks with Chaowen Ting, the founder and artistic director of Girls Who Conduct. Girls Who Conduct is an initiative created in 2020 to empower and encourage the upcoming generation of women, women-identifying, and non-binary conductors by providing a program for training, mentorship, and camaraderie in order to foster diversity and inclusion in classical music.
Girls Who Conduct: https://girlswhoconduct.org/
Music (at the end)
You Are Not Alone by Jennifer Jolley https://www.jenniferjolley.com/
https://contemporaryartmusicproject.org/2023-01-121h 01
The Musician's Guide To Being Healthy, Wealthy, and WiseEpisode 199: Meet Chaowen TingIn this episode, Karen interviews Chaowen Ting! Listener Write in: https://www.musiciansguidepodcast.com/about Patreon- Come Hang out: https://patreon.com/user?u=66581011&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_link The Musician's Guide to Social Media Courses: https://www.musiciansguidepodcast.com/courses Leave us a Review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-musicians-guide-to-being-healthy-wealthy-and-wise/id1440699268 Karen Cubides Agency: https://karencubidesagency.com Karen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karen.cubides/ Jen's Instagram: https://www...2022-12-0758 min
The Conductor's PodcastDiane Wittry on Conducting TechniquesIn this wisdom-filled episode, my guest is the world-renowned conductor, Diane Wittry. She is the music director of the Allentown Symphony and the Music Director and Conductor of the Garden State Philharmonic. She is also the author of award-winning books, “Beyond the Baton” and “Baton Basics - Communicating Music through Gestures.”To understand the essence of conducting and how to improve as a conductor, you’ll need to indulge in this episode and learn.Conductor, Diane Wittry, named nationally as one of the "Top 30 Professional Musicians" by Musical America Worldwide for her work leading orchestras, is a highl...2022-10-061h 15
The Conductor's PodcastYour Favorite Thing about What You DoHi there! Happy end of September and welcome to episode no.9 of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This series is aired on the last Thursday of each month, and in each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide variety of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.This month’s question that I am asking my people...2022-09-2917 min
The Conductor's PodcastGabriela Lena Frank on CreativityIn this episode of The Conductor’s Podcast, my guest is Gabriel Lena Frank. As she continues to be a remarkable composer, she’s fulfilling her passion of wanting to live by 100 years and seeing that music becomes more accessible to individuals who really want and need it. Tune in this episode and be inspired on how creativity impacts society and how you can navigate the world of music despite being bombarded with biases and different gender or race-related conundrums.Currently serving as Composer-in-Residence with the Philadelphia Orchestra and included in the Washington Post’ s list of...2022-09-2253 min
The Conductor's PodcastKamna Gupta on Developing New OperasOpera is one of the greatest and the most classic art forms. It combines the ingenuity of a great storyline and the elegance of music in one captivating show. As this classic art form continue to become a favorite among enthusiasts, new operas are giving audiences a fresh perspective to shows that feature newly-composed music and storylines that haven’t been heard yet. In this episode, Kanma Gupta discusses the process of developing new operas and more! Kamna Gupta is an American Prize-winning conductor experienced in operatic, orchestral, and choral repertoires. In the 2022-23...2022-09-1552 min
The Conductor's PodcastCynthia Johnston Turner on Good Conducting and LeadershipIn this truly exciting episode, the one and only Dr. Cynthia Johnson Turner discuss the broad meaning behind good conducting and how you can stand up on the podium as a leader. Johnston Turner, a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY and her Master of Education in Music Education from the University of Victoria, B.C.Her professional success is readily apparent on both sides of the border and abroad. She comes to Laurier from the H...2022-09-0854 min
The Conductor's PodcastFive Productivity HacksWant to booster your productivity? Listen to today's episode where I share my newly discovred productivity hacks!1. Always check your why: What's your purpose?2. Morning Pages Journal: clear your mind before starting your day!3. App: TodoistAnswer these questions daily:Identify the most important tasks (one or two)Is what I am doing today supporting my long-term goals?The setback of the dayWhat can I do differently tomorrow4. Find the duration chunk that works for you5. Set an environment that is not distracting2022-09-0122 min
The Conductor's PodcastYour Morning RoutineHi there! Happy end of August and welcome to episode no.8 of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This series is aired on the last Thursday of each month, and in each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide variety of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.This month’s question that I am asking my peo...2022-08-2520 min
The Conductor's PodcastCarolyn Watson on Conducting StudyWhile conducting music requires a specific level of technique, one’s success as a conductor cannot be complete without mastering musicianship. In this episode of The Conductor’s Podcast, I am beyond ecstatic to have Dr. Carolyn Watson as my guest as she enlightens young and experienced conductors alike, the essence of musicianship, musical intent and musical conviction when conducting study. Carolyn Watson is Director of Orchestras at the University of Illinois, Principal Guest Conductor of the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra, and Music Director of the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra in Indiana. Origina...2022-08-1837 min
The Conductor's PodcastAubrey Bergauer on HiringHappy August to you!August, for me, is the mark of a new beginning. As we ready ourselves for a new journey, this episode will surely give you a boost of new learnings for the new generation. Today, Aubrey Bergauer graces the show with her expertise in human resources, organizational culture, strategizing guests to be patrons, diversity and inclusivity to “changing the narrative”. She also emphasizes the importance of matching on-stage talent with off-stage talent. Sit back, relax and start a new journey with her in...2022-08-111h 07
The Conductor's PodcastScore Study TipsScore study is such an important topic, and I've touched on this a few times in the podcast. However, I am going to organize things together for you, so it's a central place for you!In today's episode, I will be sharing 1) how I study scores when I don't have enough time, 2) some tools that I mixed and matched, and 3) great tips from the Girls Who Conduct Discovery Friday series.When I don't have enough time properly study....Tempo, transition, tempo!A lot of listeningBalance, Entrances, and Unification of styles2022-08-0437 min
The Conductor's PodcastHow Do I Get Better?Welcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer Mini Series!Hi there! Welcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer mini series. During the month of July, we are taking a break from the usual interview conversations. Instead, I will be sharing some tips on different aspects of a conductor’s job with you every week.In today’s episode, I will be talking about how to improve my conducting!This is the question that I got asked a lot, and in today's episode I will be sharing some tips that were given to me, a...2022-07-2840 min
The Conductor's PodcastWhat You Wish You Knew Before Entering the ProfessionHi there! Happy end of July and welcome to the seventh edition of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This series is aired on the last Monday of each month, and in each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide variety of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.This month’s question that I am asking my people is, “2022-07-2517 min
The Conductor's PodcastSpeaking to the AudienceHi there! Welcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer mini series. The summer months of June, July, and August are traditionally “off-season” for performing artists, where many people make summer homes at various festivals. This summer I turned down all the work engagements to refresh and recharge myself, and I thought that it could be fun for us to have different mini series with the podcast. Therefore, during the month of July, I will be sharing some tips on different aspects of a conductor’s job with you. In today’s episode, I will be talking abo...2022-07-2131 min
The Conductor's PodcastPrepping for RehearsalsWelcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer Mini Series!Hi there! Welcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer mini series. During the month of July, we are taking a break from the usual interview conversations. Instead, I will be sharing some tips on different aspects of a conductor’s job with you every week.In today’s episode, I will be talking about prepping for rehearsals. For me, the most important principal about rehearsal, is to HAVE A PLAN, BUT BE FLEXIBLE!What are the rehearsal goals?2022-07-1446 min
The Conductor's PodcastMy Programming ProcessWelcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer Mini Series!Hi there! Welcome to the Conductor’s Podcast Summer mini series. During the month of July, we are taking a break from the usual interview conversations. Instead, I will be sharing some tips on different aspects of a conductor’s job with you every week.In today’s episode, I will be talking about my programming process. MY CORE CONSIDERATIONS:What do I need / what does your ensemble need to work on?What can I the ensemble already d...2022-07-0733 min
The Conductor's PodcastCreating Meaningful Work with Maria Sensi SellnerJuly is just around the corner! Who could’ve thought that six months of 2022 had gone by so quickly? I remember so many of my New Year’s resolutions and I know I have to catch up with all of these goals. However, such “chasing-the-goal” action should not compromise one’s mental health and happiness. It should not also sacrifice your life’s purpose.In this episode of the Conductor’s Podcast, conductor Maria Sensi Sellner shares with us how she navigated life despite experiencing burnout and how you can learn from her experience as...2022-06-3052 min
The Conductor's PodcastYour Favorite Self-Care PracticeHi there! Happy end of June and welcome to the fifth edition of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This series is aired on the last Monday of each month, and in each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide variety of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.This month’s question that I am a...2022-06-2711 min
The Conductor's PodcastManaging an Orchestra and a Theater with Anne Catherine MurrayIn today's episode, I interviewed the Executive Director of the August Symphony (GA), Anne Catherine Murray on how she manages an orchestra. She’ll share her wisdom on the management side of a performing arts organization and a theater, discuss the challenges of managing personnel, how she was able to find her purpose, and how she navigated problems brought by the pandemicAnne Catherine Murray joined the Augusta Symphony in 2015. During this time, she has overseen two organizational restructures, the international search for a music director, and the completion of the $23M capital campaign and construction pro...2022-06-2348 min
The Conductor's PodcastCross-State Music Directing, Traveling, and Family with Sarah IoannidesSometimes, being a woman means having to handle a lot of things on your plate. For conductor Sarah Ioannides, these responsibilities prove that she can conquer so many mountains while being able to express herself in music and art. In this week's episode of The Conductor’s Podcast, Sarah talks about the art of being ready, the essence of leadership, and the wonders of being a mom. Currently Music Director of Symphony Tacoma, Ioannides has also led orchestras extensively in the United States including the Buffalo Philharmonic, Charleston Symphony, Hawai’i Symphony, Louisville Orchestra, North Carolina Symphony, Rochest...2022-06-1648 min
The Conductor's PodcastThrive in Concert Halls and Opera Pits with Lidiya YankovskayaConductor Lidiya Yankovskaya joins me and speaks about her experience preparing for, conducting, and navigating a career thriving between concert halls and opera pits.Russian-American conductor Lidiya Yankovskaya is a fiercely committed advocate for Russianmasterpieces, operatic rarities, and contemporary works on the leading edge of classical music. She has conducted more than 40 world premieres, including 16 operas, and her strength as a visionary collaborator has guided new perspectives on staged and symphonic repertoire from Carmen and Queen of Spades to Price and Prokofiev. Yankovskaya has recently made major debuts with Chicago Symphony Orchestra and D...2022-06-0943 min
The Conductor's PodcastWhat I learned this Season Working as Staff Conductor for Three OrganizationsAn open and honest review of what I learned this past season (2022-23) as staff conductor for three different organizations across two states.....1. take good of my own mental and physical health!2. traveling has a much larger impacts on myself and my family than I had expected....3. People Skills!! People Skills!! People Skills!4. how and when should I repeat the same repertoire with different ensembles?5. know what you need to be successful and don't be afraid to ask for supports!Episodes mentioned in this one:#9 Four Tips to Get Unstuck...2022-06-0229 min
The Conductor's PodcastNetworking Method that Worked for YouHi there! Happy end of May and welcome to the fifth edition of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This series is aired on the last Monday of each month, and in each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide variety of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.This month’s question that I am a...2022-05-3020 min
The Conductor's PodcastOrganize Your Score, Time, and Journey with Lina Gonzalez GranadosConductor Lina Gonzalez Granados joined me and shared her experiences in organizing her time, studying scores, and taking care of her health when she was always on the go conducting around the globe.Some of Lina's Career Highlights:Third Prize and ECHO Special Award at the Inaugural La Maestra CompetitionNamed conducting fellow of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Seattle SymphonyWinner of the 4th CSO Sir Georg Solti Conducting Competition and ApprenticeshipFounded Unitas Ensemble, a chamber orchestra dedicated to performing works by Latin-American composers. Since 2014, have given nearly a dozen world, North-American, and U.S. premieres, and released...2022-05-261h 01
The Conductor's PodcastDiversity, Mentorship, and Know Your Body Well with Anna EdwardsConducting is never about swinging your arms - left and right as you command the flow of music to your delight. Conducting is embracing your personal strengths, expressing it through music and letting it create a rippled effect to its viewers and listeners. This is one of the reasons why Anna Edwards is beyond passionate in breaking the barriers of the conducting industry. She wants aspiring conductors to understand that there's more to it than just waving their arms. Tune in this episode of the Conductor's Podcast and be enl...2022-05-1941 min
The Conductor's PodcastThe World of Sound and Image with JoAnne HarrisFilm scores play a crucial role in cinema. It’s intertwined with visual imagery and is a secret ingredient for a blockbuster hit. It heightens the emotional impact of a movie, creating an aural mood for each scene. If you’re curious to know how they’re made, then this episode is right up your alley!Meet composer, orchestrator, and conductor for TV, film, and theatre, JoAnne Harris. In this episode, let’s listen to her story on how she was able to land her current job, what it takes to work in the film industry, and some adv...2022-05-1239 min
The Conductor's PodcastLIVE: Assistant Conductor Positions with Michelle Di Russo and Michelle Rofrano (CUT version)In today's episode of the Conductor’s Podcast, my guests Michelle Di Russo and Michelle Rofrano provide an elaborate rundown of what it’s like working as an assistant conductor, how to land jobs, their experiences collaborating with agents, how they turn down opportunities and their definition of a great assistant conductor. They also answer questions from our audiences! You wouldn’t want to miss out on timeless nuggets of wisdom with this episode. Many opera houses in the US have young artist programs that you can audition for – but not for assistant conductors. Preparation is the key. Ti...2022-05-051h 15
The Conductor's PodcastPsychology, Well-Being, and Mindfulness on the Podium with Tianyi LuDespite her many, many years on the podium, our guest for today is never shy in admitting that there are days when she doesn’t feel confident – and no, she never tries to fake it.If you’re wondering how this seasoned conductor navigates through a roller coaster of emotions or uncontrollable factors, this episode is perfect for you! Tianyi Lu gives us tips on embracing the leadership role by being on the podium without abusing power, the power of being grounded and compassionate to yourself and others, Be open with the energy of kindness, calmness and min...2022-04-281h 01
The Conductor's PodcastYour Score Study ProcessNoreen Green (Conductor, Los Angeles Jewish Symphony, episode 27)Lily Ling (Music Director, Hamilton, episode 21)Julia Baumanis (Assistant Director of Bands, Rutgers University, episode 31)Tiffany Chang (opera and orchestra conductor, episode 4)Jennifer Kane (Founder, NOVA Women’s Choral Project – episode 16)Margaret Flood (Founder, Frost Young Women Conductor Symposium)Susie Seiter (film conductor, episode 29)Kira Omelchenko (Conductor, Wilfrid Laurier University Symphony Orchestra, episode 22)Anna Edwards (Music Director, Seattle Collaborative Orchestra and Saratoga Orchestra, episode 37)and my friend Michelle Rofrano (conductor, founder, Protestra, epis...2022-04-2535 min
The Conductor's PodcastServing Music and Drama through a Collaborative Endeavor with Stephanie HaveyWhether it’s building a career or establishing successful working relationships, the importance of networking as a music professional cannot be undermined.In today's episode, stage director Stephanie Havey provides aspiring music professionals with the knowledge and first-hand experience. She discusses the inner workings of a stage director, her love for the art, the importance of artist collaborations, the shifting world of opera, navigating through collaborations with varying ideas, and her advice to anyone interested in directing.Winner of the Adelaide Bishop award for artistic quality and winner of the Opera America Director-Designer Showcase, Stephanie Ha...2022-04-211h 03
The Conductor's PodcastBreaking the Barriers as a Women Band Conductor with Julia BaumanisWomen, all around the world, are paving the way toward a society that fostersinclusivity, diversity and equality.In this episode, we’ll get a chance to listen to Julia Baumanis. She’s going to share with us how her initial passion for music became the guiding light to her career as a band director.Aside from discussing her rise to the musical world, she’s going to elaborate on her aspirations, navigating through the pandemic and why she is embracing her gender as a medium to raise awareness and encourage more women to be lea...2022-04-1456 min
The Conductor's PodcastEverything Conducting VideosToday’s episode is a bit different as I will be answering all the questions that I received about conducting videos.Before we get started, I wanted to remind you all that the very first episode of this podcast is about Five Mistakes to Avoid with Your Conducting Videos.Here are the questions that I will answer in the episode:I have a video that has much better sound quality and the performance was great, but it was shot from the back of the conductor. Should I submit it...2022-04-0731 min
The Conductor's PodcastNavigating a Diversified Career in Music with Susie Benchasil SeiterConductor Susie Bechasil Seiter, who specializes in orchestra pops and film score conducting, discuss systematic gender bias, barriers, and her experiences touring with bands around the world!Susie Benchasil Seiter is a prolific conductor, orchestrator and composer for film, television, video games, and live concerts. Susie currently stays busy conducting Live to Picture shows with venerable symphonies, orchestrating various projects and her first co-written Netflix limited series is due out this fall.Seiter is best known for orchestrating and conducting the remarkably successful orchestral concert tours The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the G...2022-03-311h 04
The Conductor's PodcastYour Biggest Struggle in Conducting during Training YearsHi there! Happy March and welcome to the third edition of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! This month’s question that I am asking my people is, “𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀?” For me, physically it was to stand up straight. Mentally it was not to be afraid of doing the job when working with professional ensembles.𝕄𝕪 𝕘𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕤 𝕥𝕠𝕕𝕒𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕖:Alice Farnham (conductor and Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Women Conductors with the Royal Philharmonic Society, episode 26)Kiernan Steiner or Dr. Kiki (Decolonization consultant and choral conductor, episode 17)Kristin Roach (opera conductor, Episode 12)JoAnne Harris (film composer and conductor, episode upcoming)Kira Omelchenko (Conductor...2022-03-2915 min
The Conductor's PodcastBuilding Bridges through Music with Noreen GreenHave you ever wondered, 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤 𝙄 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙚?Dr. Noreen Green, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony founded this organization in 1994 as her niche, and has focused on presenting music with Jewish themes since.In today's episode, she shares with us how she creates cultural bridges to connect people with music. Dr. Green also discusses her networking practices, collaborative experiences, outreaching to different communities, and many things that she learned along her entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Green has served as guest conductor in the United States, Israel, South Africa, Australia and Canada. Under her direction, the LAJS has performed at such venues as...2022-03-2452 min
The Conductor's PodcastPathway to the Podium with Alice FarnhamIn today's episode, Conductor Alice Farnham will share her journey to the podium with us.Farnham started her career as a church musician playing organ and trumpet. She was an Organ Scholar at St. Hugh's College, Oxford University and trained for three years with the legendary pedagogue Ilya Musin in St. Petersburg. Alice is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Women Conductors with the Royal Philharmonic Society. She is listed in the Classic FM Today's Ten Best Women Conductors and in the BBC Woman's Hour Music Power List. Recent conducting engagements include the BBC Concert Orchestra, R...2022-03-1748 min
The Conductor's PodcastCommitting to the Pursuit of the Purpose with B.E. BoykinHappy March! I hope you are getting more settled into the year of 2022 as I know it hasn’t been easy for a lot of people. If you are feeling overwhelmed, I am totally on the same page with you and that’s why I am super excited about today’s episode as our guest will share with us how she maneuvers through barriers in the field. Dr. Brittney Boykin, or B.E. Boykin, as she is known, is a pianist, composer and choral conductor. We covered a lot of topics today, from her 3P mantra t...2022-03-1043 min
The Conductor's PodcastWhat 501(c)3 is and WHY it mattersIn today’s episode of our podcast, we are going to discuss what 501(c)3 is -- something that you might have heard of many times now, and why it matters. I know that today’s content might be a bit dry, but if you are ever inspired to start an organization or an ensemble like Jennifer Kane, Founder and Artistic Director of NOVA Women’s Choral Project and our guest in episode 16, or to start a publishing company like our next week’s guest Brittney Boykin -- oh, that’s a spoiler alarm! -- this episode is something f...2022-03-0328 min
The Conductor's PodcastThe Most Important Habit that Contributes to Your SuccessWelcome to the episode no.2 of 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐖𝐢𝐬𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬, a new monthly series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! In each episode, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide array of people, thus called the wisdom series. Today's question that I am asking my people, is “𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨?”For me, the most important habit is to “𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗹.” Ready to hear what my guests have to say? My guests today are: Lily Ling (Music Director, Hamilton – episode 21)Jennifer Kane (Founder, NOVA Women’s Choral Project – episode 15)Ashley Kilam and Carrie Blosser (Co-Founder, Diversify the Stand – episode 20)Tiffany Chang (opera and orchestra conductor, episode 4),Kira Omelchenko (Conductor, Wilfrid Laurier University Symphony Orchestra – episode 22)B.E. Boykin (Composer and Conductor – episode 25)Margaret Flood (2022-02-2817 min
The Conductor's PodcastString Strategies and Tackling your Fears with Kira OmelchenkoMy guest today Dr. Kira Omelchenko will be sharing with us her tips of working with strings. When you work with an orchestral ensemble, no matter a chamber orchestra, a full symphonic orchestra, or even just a few musicians at your church’s Christmas service, you are very likely working with string players, and perhaps quite some of them. After all, string makes up the largest body in an orchestra, and because of the nature of having multiple players per part, knowing how to work with strings will really help your rehearsal process and to achieve better per...2022-02-2643 min
The Conductor's PodcastBroadway Demystified with Lily LingIn today’s episode, I am interviewing a dear friend, Lily Ling, who is music director and conductor of the Hamilton Broadway show. I was connected with Lily through the mentorship program offered by the Maestra Music, an organization supporting women and non-binary musicians working in musical theater. They offered a lot of great webinars during the pandemic, and I was fortunate to be accepted into their program as a first cohort mentee. Full disclosure, I am not terribly familiar with the industry or practices of musical theater, but through Maestra Music I have made friends in the...2022-02-1748 min
The Conductor's PodcastDiversify the Stand with Ashley Killam and Carrie BlosserHappy February! I am so grateful for you to be here with me, at the 20th episode of the show. It’s hard to imagine that we’ve been here together for almost 5 months, and I hope you are still loving this show as much as I do.Today’s topic is something that I personally really look forward to, 𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖎𝖘𝖘𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖎𝖓𝖌. In the musical world, commission means that you pay someone to write a piece of music for you.One way of supporting living composers is to perform their works in concert halls, and another is to commission new works. And why is this impo...2022-02-1053 min
The Conductor's PodcastRunning Efficient and Effective Rehearsals by Using your Words and Voice WellToday we are going to talk about something that I personally love speaking about -- running effective and efficient rehearsals!There are many aspects about planning for rehearsals -- from strategizing the overarching rehearsal goals throughout the concert cycle, to pacing each individual rehearsal session; from choosing the right program to being mindful and reading the room well. However, in today’s episode, we are going to focus on verbal communication, and discuss how you can be very specific with your words and use your voice effectively.Ready for some tips?2022-02-0331 min
The Conductor's PodcastThe Best Advice You Were Ever GivenHi there! Welcome to the very first episode of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, a new series full of shared life experiences and, of course, wisdom! In each of the monthly episodes of the Conductor’s Podcast Wisdom series, I am going to pose a question to 10 musicians, conductors, or business gurus. So including myself, you will hear all the goodies from a wide array of people, thus called the wisdom series. Now, without further ado, let’s get started.The very first question I am asking my people, is “what’s the best ad...2022-01-3116 min
The Conductor's PodcastConstructing Identity through Decolonizing Kiki with Kiernan SteinerIn today’s episode, we will be discussing “decolonization.” One of the trends that the world of classical music is slowly embracing in recent years.In politics, the process of decolonization can be very broad, from colonies becoming independent countries recognized by the international society to recognizing how the colonial powers have taken advantage of the colonies, to changing the language used when referring to “native” people to the “indigenous,” to colonized people regaining confidence in and respect for their own cultural and traditions. This is a long and somehow painful process, and also very individual to each country a...2022-01-2738 min
The Conductor's PodcastCreativity, Social Responsibility, and Artistic Entrepreneurship with Jennifer Kane𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝘁?After almost 2 years, the pandemic is not yet completely behind us. It has impacted musicians in different fields differently, as many string players and percussionists are still able to perform with their masks on, while many wind players and vocalists are still battling various regulations in different states and countries how they can return to the new normality. And this is why I am really excited to welcome you to today’s episode, as my friend Jennifer Kane was able to navigate this new reality and formed a new choral ensemble in Boston, the NOVA Women's Choral Project. I first met Jennifer through a mastermind group that my conductor friend, Tiffany Chang organizes. Tiffany ha...2022-01-2038 min
The Conductor's PodcastBuilding Authentic Relationships with Elizabeth AskrenToday’s episode is one that I’m personally excited about, as my guest today Elizabeth Askren was on my guest list way before I started this podcast. Elizabeth and I met when we were both fellows for the Dallas Opera Hart Institute for Women Conductors, and she has since continued to mentor other conductors and artists through the Dallas Opera program and also the Transylvanian Opera Academy that she founded in Cluj, Romania. In today’s episode, Elizabeth will speak with me on one topic that I found really important and somehow under-explored during conserv...2022-01-1353 min
The Conductor's PodcastProductivity and Time Management Tips with Kalena BovellHappy New Year, and I am super excited about today's episode, as I'll be speaking with one of my role models, conductor Kalena Bovell. For the very first show of 2022, Kalena will be talking to us about time management skills, also sharing with us her experience of preparing and studying for her BBC Proms debut. I hope you're as excited as I am recording this episode. Panamanian American conductor Kalena Bovell wields a distinctive voice as a maestra, speaker and poet. Having recently led the Chineke! Orchestra in her BBC Proms debut, Bovell's twin focus on...2022-01-0655 min
The Conductor's PodcastAll You Want to Know About Collegiate Ensemble Director PositionsHi there! Welcome to episode No. 13 of the Conductor’s Podcast, and happy almost new year! Since it’s now almost the new year, I thought we would have a special episode talking about one of my current positions, a collegiate conducting position. This is also something that a lot of people are less familiar with, and my dear friend Dr. Carolyn Watson and I hosted a series of free webinars in 2020 called “Maestro as Professor,” through which we gave presentations on the various facets of the job, and interviewed over 13 collegiate orchestral conductors.Tod...2021-12-3031 min
The Conductor's PodcastFamily and Community Centered Artistry with Kristin RoachThe pandemic has taught us a lot of things. Many of us lost their loved ones, and some of us had a chance to reflect on their relationships with others. Being forced at home gave some people a chance to spend more time with their families, while some others couldn’t see their loved ones for months because of Covid related travel restrictions or other concerns.In today’s episode, I will be exploring the topic of a family centered career trajectory with my friend Kristin Roach. Kristin will share...2021-12-2339 min