Steve Houghton – internationally renowned jazz drummer, percussionist, clinician, author, and educator– joins me to share insights from over 30 years of professional teaching. They discuss measuring progress, finding your niche, the importance of projects, and actionable advice for improving university programs. Yeah baby! “Over time I just want to play with my friends.“ Listen …
Utah pianist, composer, vocalist, and historian Isaiah Smith joins me to share a black perspective on American history and music. In pt. 1 we discuss racism in Utah, how music schools overlook the African influence on European composers, and his interpretation of American history from the start of slavery up through Dr. King. Pt 2 focuses …
Wayne Wallace – prolific recording artist, composer, arranger, and producer – joins me to discuss the state of the music world in the midst of Covid-19. He shares a seasoned perspective on how musicians can come out of this more connected with our craft, each other, and the little things.
Saxophonist, entrepreneur, and one woman show dynamo Erica von Kleist joins The Happy Musicians to discuss her “flip out decision” to leave New York and move to Montana. Our conversation explores the thoughts she shared in her viral mental health FB post and other negative elements of the music world. Tune in if you like …
Preservation Hall drummer and spiritual being Walter Harris joins me to discuss creative visualization, love, compassion, community, and the other beautiful, mystical aspects of the universe. He also explains the cultural and spiritual significance of Mardi Gras, emotionally charged practice, and his experience manifesting his dreams out of prison. At its best this interview offers …
Saxophonist, composer, bandleader, educator, and activist Roxy Coss joins me to discuss how she maintains her wellbeing through a jam-packed, multifaceted career. She also speaks about her Women In Jazz Organization, actions we can take to better support women and non-binary musicians, and how happiness is a choice.
Internationally acclaimed guitarist Corey Christiansen joins me to discuss the best ways we can support and grow isolated music communities. He also shares advice on what music school can and can’t do for you, his passion for BAM, what it takes to be a “jazz artist”, and some pro-tips on travel and gig etiquette. “If …
New Orleans vocalist Quiana Lynell joins me to discuss her transformation from AT&T call center worker to competition winning, international touring Jazz artist. She shares about her journey of self acceptance, maintaining a career as a single mother, running, and being the first person in her family to graduate college. This woman is incredible!
New Orleans trumpeter Jonathan Bauer joins me to discuss band leading, the difference between gigs and shows, quitting a gig, serving the music, and the academia bi-product of “Jazz Guilt”.
Brent Wallarab – acclaimed arranger and composer – joins me to discuss walking away from the trombone, making relationships work, rediscovering his self worth, and the expectations we tend to have as musicians that lead to misery.