118: Why Is It So Hard to Launch a Nonprofit? – A Conversation with Robert Paterson

In this episode, we speak with composer Robert Paterson about what it takes to build an arts organization in collaboration with one’s spouse, the frustrating transience of modern life, and why music festivals need to be reformed. Robert and his wife, Victoria Paterson, co-founded both Mostly Modern Projects, where he currently serves as artistic director, and Mostly Modern Ensemble. His work as a composer has received support from MacDowell, Copeland House, the Utah Arts Festival, the Aspen Music Festival, the American Composers Forum, the League of American Orchestras, New Music USA, and others. He’s also given master classes at several colleges and universities, including the Curtis Institute of Music, Aspen Music School & Festival, New York University, Cleaveland Institute of Music, and the University of Denver. He holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music, Indiana University, and Cornell.