The Mind Over Finger Podcast

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 practice and music-making are eye opening!

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.  Marina’s approach to music making is authentic and fresh, and her insight on musicality is spot on!  I’m sure you will enjoy her point of view and get a lot of value from this episode!

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 really valuable advice on how to take your playing and career to the next level.

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.

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.

First Associate Concertmaster with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the creative mind behind Natesviolin, Nathan Cole has incredible insight on practice and performance preparation! 

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.

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 not been afraid to step off the beaten path and shape her unique, meaningful, and impactful career.

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.

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.

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, international violin soloist James Ehnes talks about the essence of what mindful instrumental practice is: having a clear goal, work efficiently, listen intently, and connect with others.

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 to receive our very first episode, featuring superstar violinist James Ehnes, in your podcast feed!