PODCAST · education
Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes
by Christian Howes
Simplifying growth for musicians- especially violin, viola, fiddle, and cello players and teachers- with tips, insights, tools, and stories to grow in their practice, teaching, and career. Exploring intersections in creativity, music education, string playing, music business, and culture, Creative Strings is a non-profit organization supporting music education via online curriculum, orchestra classroom outreach, in-person retreats/conferences, and more. Executive director and host Christian Howes is a classically trained Jazz violinist helping string players to be versatile and creative.
Episodes
-
Musicians Redefining Success Mid-Career with Sarah Whitney
For musicians who’ve been at it 10, 20, 30 years and suddenly realize the old definition doesn’t fit the life they actually want now. If you’ve hit a point in your career where things look successful on paper but don’t feel like success anymore, this conversation will land. In this interview, we...
-
Jose Francisco Pérez Colón - A Contemporaneous Violinist From Dominican Republic In Europe
In this episode, Jose Francisco shares his incredible story of starting the violin at 17 in the Dominican Republic, overcoming lack of resources, and rising to perform internationally. He discusses his early inspirations, the importance of finding one's own voice in music, and the challenges he...
-
Can Learning Improvisation Improve Mental Health For Classical Musicians?
Chris talks with a classical violinist and PhD researcher, about the emotional toll of traditional training and how improvisation supports well-being. She explores nervous system regulation, perfectionism, and mindfulness techniques that help musicians feel more confident, expressive, and whole....
-
Songwriting Strategies: A 360 Degree Approach (Part 2) w/ Mark Simos- Creative Strings Podcast Ep.15
In the second of a two part interview, I sat down with my former colleague at the Berklee College of Music, Mark Simos, to discuss the strategies featured in his book Songwriting Strategies: A 360-Degree Approach. Improvisation as a historic part of the classical composition process Songwriting…
more -
Songwriting Strategies: A 360 Degree Approach (Part 1) w/ Mark Simos- Creative Strings Podcast Ep.14
In the first of a two part interview, I sat down with my former colleague at the Berklee College of Music, Mark Simos, to discuss the strategies featured in his book Songwriting Strategies: A 360-Degree Approach. I think you'll find that these strategies apply to writing tunes in all genres. If...
-
Parenting Musicians: Sun & D.D. Jackson’s Journey Through Music
Discover the joys and challenges of parenting musicians in this heartfelt episode of the Creative Strings Podcast. Christian Howes sits down with 15-year-old songwriter Sun Jackson and her father, Grammy-nominated pianist and composer D.D. Jackson, explores their inspiring father-daughter bond...
-
Overcome Perfectionism as Musicians w/ Dr. Ellen Hendriksen
Break free from the “never good enough” mindset. Chris interviews clinical psychologist and author Dr. Ellen Hendriksen to explore how to overcome perfectionism as musicians. Whether you're a performer, teacher, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to…
more -
Embracing Musical Diversity: a journey from classical to folk music with Rebecca Clare Douglas
Discover the transformative journey of Rebecca Clare Douglas in this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, where musical diversity takes center stage. From earning a music degree at Oxford to becoming a multifaceted folk musician, educator, and author, Rebecca shares how embracing diversity in...
-
21 Daily Habits for Musicians | Grow & Be Happy
Discover 21 daily habits for musicians to grow and enjoy their practice, teaching, or careers more. In this video, Christian Howes shares practical tips to optimize routines, set goals, and find happiness in your musical journey. Designed for teachers, players, and music entrepreneurs, these…
more -
The Value and Nuances of Teaching Improvisation for Music Educators
Marcello DeFrancesco interviews Christian Howes as research for his PHD in music education. They discuss questions related to improvisation, nuances of learning techniques, the influence of genres like Jazz on improvisation, and the critical role of educational institutions in fostering…
more -
Jazz Violin vs Classical Violin: the difference in Bowing Technique
Violin bow techniques vary between classical and jazz violin playing- listen to learn why it's important to know them both. Follow Dr. Lynn Kuo at her wonderful Youtube Channel @violynnkuo Our discussion reveals insight into bow usage, articulation, and maintaining bow contact for rhythmical...
-
Secrets of Versatile High-Functioning Musicians
In this episode, Christian Howes dives deep into strategies for musicians to master their craft more effectively. Addressing both teachers and players, he provides a comprehensive seven-week program designed to elevate your musical prowess. From tonal improvisation to advanced jazz harmony.…
more -
Overfill Your Orchestra: How Orchestra Teacher Angela Harman runs a Thriving Orchestra Class
Orchestra teachers- get the exact tactics used by renowned orchestra teacher Angela Harman to Overfill her classroom program, retain students, assess, and more as she delves into her effective strategies on how to attract and retain music students. To watch this episode on video click here:...
-
A String Quartet that Grooves w/ Quartet Davis
In this episode I sit down with Emily Edelstein, Molly Tucker, Camille Vogley-Howes, and Karl Henry from Quartet Davis, an exciting string quartet pushing the boundaries of classical, folk, jazz, and pop music. We discuss their debut album, “Three Lefts Make a Right” and go into their creative...
-
3 Keys to redesign your practice & become a more Functional Musician
To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Wtg32uHwnoo Learn three powerful changes you can make to your practice routine to become a more functional musician. Instead of playing classical etudes, you can do improvised scales/exercises. Try to improvise over "elemental music forms"...
-
How to Learn & Remember Chord Progressions to the Songs and Tunes You Play
To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Vo3BB7Z2Z_U Three simple but powerful methods that will help you overcome the limitation of only playing melodies. Gain the ability to accompany others on songs. Learn Why it's important to memorize the chords of a song, and How to learn…
more -
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) Therapy w/ Joyu Lee + Mindfulness for musicians.
Therapist, pianist and cellist Joyu Lee shares her expertise in Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) therapy, plus mindfulness and how it can benefit musicians. You can follow her work on Instagram at @musicandyourmind. Learn more at https://www.musicandyourmind.com/.
-
Music Teachers: Cultivating Excellence & Self Care w/ Adrian Gordon
Developing excellence and improved self-care for music teachers. Our guest Adrian Gordon has taught classroom music for 18 years. His new book "Note to Self" explores how to make successful transitions for music teachers. Learn more about Adrian and his work at www.adriangordonmusic.com Thanks to...
-
Bluegrass Fiddle Tricks & Licks ; Magic Bluegrass Scale with Justin Branum
Learn secrets of how to play bluegrass fiddle and more with Justin Branum - in this video we use the Magic Bluegrass scale as it relates to tunes like June Apple. June Apples are small and oblong, with a brisk taste that's unusual for early apples. I only know this because Justin Branum told me....
-
How to Amplify Violin Viola or Cello w/ Matt Bell of Electric Violin Shop
How to amplify the violin and get a good sound. Electric violin vs acoustic violin. Pickups vs amplifiers. Electric Violin Effects, how to use loops for violin, and related gear for violin, viola, and cello, are answered in this interview with Matt Bell of Electric Violin Shop #electricviolin...
-
Showing up and serving your community with Dr. Quinton Morris
In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, Chris talks to educator and violinist, Dr. Quinton Morris about his non-profit work, Key to Change, entrepreneurship, and combating racism in classical music. https://www.keytochangestudio.org/ (01:15) Teaching students to be entrepreneurs (3:24)...
-
Resourcing tuition-free string teaching programs w/ Violinist/Pastor John "Adidam" Littlejohn
John "Adidam" Littlejohn shares how he resources his high-level tuition-free string camp www.stringbootcamp.com and how he balances/approaches life as a minister, educator, and violinist. 00:00 Intro 00:52 Thrive City String Bootcamp 05:39 Advanced seminar 11:04 Origins of camp 14:09 Teaching in...
-
Opportunities for Musicians to Thrive in the Health Space with Aaron Colverson
In this episode, Chris talks to violinist and PhD-candidate Aaron Colverson about his musical journey and areas where musicians can impact the health space. 00:00 Intro 01:14 Opportunities for musicians in the health space 04:55 Are there ways of getting involved in music in a therapeutic sense…
more -
The Role of Artists in War; How One Ukrainian Violinist Copes & Supports His Country
Violinist Kostia Lukyniuk shares his perspective from Ukraine. Find the full show notes here: https://christianhowes.com/2022/03/04/creative-strings-podcast-episode-49-the-role-of-artists-during-war-with-ukranian-violinist-kostia-lukyniuk/ Ukrainian-born Kostia Lukyniuk is an accomplished soloist...
-
Electric Violin Pioneer Karen Briggs and the Music of Edgar Redmond.
In this special interview, the legendary pioneering violinist Karen Briggs shares how she has approached her incredible career- and there are so many great stories she shares. Also, we’ll hear new recordings of music composed by Michael Redmond’s father, Edgar Redmond. Edgar Redmond was a…
more -
Balancing Musical Goals and incorporating creativity in the Orchestra Classroom with Austin Scelzo
How to teach more to your students without burning out? How to prioritize your own musical goals without sacrificing too much of your time. The key is a Flexible mindset and Creative strategies to get the balance you want. Austin Scelzo is an exemplar of a young person taking courageous steps in...
-
How to Become a More Confident & Happy Musician
5 ways to help improve your relationship with music and the thing at the core of it all. Get my free masterclass at www.christianhowes.com/education
-
Teaching Adult Violin Students With Marlene Cruz Lozano
Marlene Cruz Lozano shares insights for adult violin students and teachers. Her Violin Bootcamp centers adult women violin students, their goals, and needs.
-
Mindful Practice with Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh
Join us with Guest Speakers Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh as we discuss how to conquer your stage fright and better achieve your musical goals through mindfulness and mindful practice.
-
Fiddler Casey Driessen on Collaboration, Rhythm, and Drawing Musical Language from Otherlands
Fiddlers Casey Driessen and Christian Howes discuss extensive clips from Casey’s album Otherlands. We talk about chopping/rhythm, and other aspects of musical collaboration for fiddlers and string players who want to expand their creative voice, musical community, and career or lifestyle. We play…
more -
Personal Branding and the Modern Classical Musician w/ Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid)
Join us with Guest Speaker Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid) as we talk about his work as a violist, composer, entrepreneur, and social media wizard. Violist Drew Alexander Forde has a reputation not only as an accomplished performer but also as one of classical music’s most recognizable online...
-
Music Therapy Techniques for Teachers & Performers w/ Raquel Ravaglioli
Music therapy techniques in teaching strings.with Raquel Ravaglioli, a board-certified music therapist, music instructor, and professional violinist. Raquel talks about being balanced while helping others find their personal and musical niche, through building strong professional relationships.…
more -
"SuperNova”: A Genre-Hopping Explosion of the Suzuki Violin Repertoire with composer, David Cutler
Composer David Cutler discussed reimagining Suzuki Violin book 1 with new arrangements of the famous pieces in many styles.
-
How To Really Teach Music Online Easily and Effectively - Creative Strings Podcast Ep.40
In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast Christian Howes dives into techniques for easily and effectively teaching music online.
-
The Art of the Hustle for Musicians- how to pivot during hard times. Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 39
How to Sell & Offer ANY Freelance services right now (for musicians, music teachers or anyone just trying to figure out ways to get work) Mindset- My attitude: I am not proud. I will dig ditches, wash dishes, or do anything necessary to survive. We can a) resign ourselves to defeat and give up b)...
-
From classical violist to rockstar influencer w Andrea Whitt - Creative Strings Podcast Ep 38
Andrea Whitt is a musician who is living the dream. She tours the world with rock stars, manages her own fashion blog, produces fine art, and plays a variety of instruments in a variety of styles. Given the common wisdom that string players must start by age six to have a chance at success, she…
more -
Hamilton Hardin on Becoming a Complete Musician - Creative Strings Podcast Episode 37
Hamilton Hardin on Becoming a Complete Musician: Any Genre, Any Instrument Have you ever worked hard learning a jazz tune with all its 9ths, 13ths, half-diminished-whatevers, only to flip on the radio and hear a pop song with the same 4 chords over and over? Some musicians wonder how jazz and…
more -
How to Join a Band and Play Confidently In New Styles of Music - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 36
If you’re a classical musician who would like to join a band and play confidently in new styles of music, I put together a checklist to make it less overwhelming, The checklist will give you a few things: How to know when and what to play. How to avoid "writers block", i.e., the feeling of having...
-
Jean Luc Ponty on Jazz, Violin, & Musicianship: Creative Strings Podcast Episode 35
In my full interview with Jean Luc Ponty for the Creative Strings Podcast, we explore key points in his development, musical conception, elements of his violin playing, the state of the music industry in general, and more. For example, how he started playing jazz on violin, the influence of Stuff...
-
Joan Griffing: Music for Peace Making & Reconciliation - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 34
When I was growing up people used to say that you should go into music only if you feel you don't have a choice. For those of us that made that choice to go into music, we were inspired by this feeling that we must do it. We had a passion, that kept us awake at night, kept us in the practice…
more -
Stash Wyslouch: Audacity and the Creative Process - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 33
To be human is to make stuff; creativity is natural. Yet it feels incredibly risky to put our creative work out there for people to vote up or down. It feels personal, like people may accept or reject us. We're drawn to the ideas and voices of people who have the courage to take that risk and…
more -
Regina Carter, Jazz Violinist: In Her Own Words – Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 32
Jazz Violinist Regina Carter dives into her inspiring beginnings as a stand-alone jazz violinist, jumping to jazz from classical training, inspiring stories of encouraging mentors, and also, her tender experiences of supporting her elderly mother and other loved ones through music. Check out the...
-
Creative Functional Musicianship: Season 4 Premiere (solo)- Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 31
Introducing Season 4 of the Creative Strings Podcast! In this episode I share my newly released arrangement of Bach’s Violin Partita #2 (Giga) and preview the upcoming interviews in this season of the Creative Strings Podcast including Regina Carter, Andrea Whitt, Stash Wyslouch, and Joan…
more -
Rez Abbasi- On Practice, Improvisation, & Composition: Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 30
Guitarist Rez Abbasi is well known for his distinctive fusing of modern jazz with influences from Hindu North Indian music and Pakistani traditional music. In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, hear him reflect upon how he developed his own voice as a player and composer, as well as…
more -
Identity, Injury, and Rewriting a Musician's story with Janet Orenstein
Imagine, as a musician, if you lost the ability to use your hands. How would you recover? How would you find fulfillment, and what would replace the void in your self image? If you're like most musicians, your craft is a big part of your identity, and even self worth. A debilitating injury would...
-
Artistic Pursuance vs The Long Arc w/ Janie Barnett: Creative Strings Podcast EP 28
Read the blog post here: http://bit.ly/CSpodcast28 Janie Barnett's new CD, "You See This River" is original, personal, and beautiful; the fact that she put it out 30 years into her career intrigued me. I wanted to know how she's managed to piece her career together so many years, before, during,...
-
The Art and Life of Street Performers w/ Valentin Spurchisi – Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 27
Remember when classical violinist Joshua Bell played in the subway for 45 minutes and made $32? The author of the story raised questions about artistic context and the loss of appreciation for beauty in modern life. A similar experiment was conducted and written about almost 100 years ago, with a...
-
Why Musicians Need Video - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 26
Download my video starter worksheet for musicians here(free): http://bit.ly/2kM5bE4 Get my favorite tools- TubeBuddy: http://bit.ly/2q7nkAg YouTube StarterKit: http://bit.ly/2izzkq7 In this video I cover: Why video is essential for any self-employed musician in 2018, why your career is likely to...
-
The Intersection of Classical, Jazz, and Flamenco w/ Pablo Martín Caminero
After staying up until 7 a.m. surrounded by Flamenco guitar, dancing, and singing in a room full of people clapping knowingly along to the Bulería, Tango, and Soleá, I was forever changed. It was my first trip to Spain in 2001, and I had just discovered the music world’s best kept secret.…
more -
21st Century Suzuki Teaching With Chili Dog Strings -Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 24
Neil Fong Gilfillan and Rachel Samson are creative, inspiring young string teachers. Together they run the teaching studio in Frisco, TX called Chili Dog Strings . This husband and wife duo combine a love of tradition in the Suzuki method with a curiosity for adventure, showcasing the…
more
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Simplifying growth for musicians- especially violin, viola, fiddle, and cello players and teachers- with tips, insights, tools, and stories to grow in their practice, teaching, and career. Exploring intersections in creativity, music education, string playing, music business, and culture, Creative Strings is a non-profit organization supporting music education via online curriculum, orchestra classroom outreach, in-person retreats/conferences, and more. Executive director and host Christian Howes is a classically trained Jazz violinist helping string players to be versatile and creative.
HOSTED BY
Christian Howes
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes have?
Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes currently has 71 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes about?
Simplifying growth for musicians- especially violin, viola, fiddle, and cello players and teachers- with tips, insights, tools, and stories to grow in their practice, teaching, and career. Exploring intersections in creativity, music education, string playing, music business, and culture, Creative...
How often does Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes release new episodes?
Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes has 71 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes?
You can listen to Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes?
Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes is created and hosted by Christian Howes.
URL copied to clipboard!