In My Musical Opinion

Arabella welcomes producer, songwriter, and live musician Chase Leibowitz to discuss his extensive experience in the wedding band scene. They explore practical strategies for musicians looking to audition, secure gigs, and excel in live performances. Chase shares unique insights on skill development, professional conduct, and the mindset needed to thrive as an independent artist.Topics Covered:Chase breaks down essential advice for musicians, especially those aiming for wedding band gigs. He offers practical guidance on securing opportunities and maintaining a professional edge.Strategies for breaking into the wedding band scene, including networking at jam sessions and contacting companies directly.Using the "sandwich" analogy to learn songs efficiently and transpose them into all 12 keys.The importance of being a "cool hang," professional conduct, preparedness, and stage entertainment.Discussion on varying standards for singers regarding music theory, ear training, and prioritizing vocal health in high-demand settings.A reminder to focus on personal best and continuous improvement rather than comparing oneself to others.📩 Connect with Chase Leibowitz:https://www.instagram.com/chasel.wavhttps://www.tiktok.com/@chasel.officialPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

This episode features Luke Colombero, a musician and film scoring major with expertise in interactive media. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of music technology, including virtual reality and artificial intelligence. Luke shares insights on leveraging these tools to foster new musical experiences and the significance of continuous innovation and thoughtful engagement with new tech.Topics Covered:Luke Colombero's role at MIT, working with virtual reality to expand educational capabilities for music and other fields.The philosophical debate around integrating AI in music, specifically how "breaking" AI can lead to unintended but creative outputs.Current applications of VR in music creation, including haptic gloves and motion-based instruments.The importance of creating unique, immersive experiences with technology rather than merely repurposing existing ideas.The value of iteration and active listening for expanding musical and technological ideas.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Musician, content creator, and director Harrison Lee joins Arabella to discuss his unique self-taught approach to music and multi-instrumentalism. He shares how his background in biology influences his musical practice, emphasizing experimentation and authenticity in artistry. This episode offers valuable insights on embracing improvisation, developing a diverse skill set, and growing an honest presence as a musician.Topics Covered:Harrison Lee's unique self-taught musical background and expansive instrumental skills.The role of improvisation in classical music and enhancing performance.How scientific principles and research inform musical practice and injury awareness.Strategies for authentic social media growth for musicians.Practical tips for vocalists learning piano accompaniment.📩 Connect with Harrison Lee:https://www.instagram.com/harrisonpiano/https://www.tiktok.com/@harrisonpianoLearn More:https://nanousers.mit.edu/immersion-lab/immersion-lab-application-areashttps://www.instagram.com/mitimmersionlab/Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Vocalist and coach Johnny Ray joins Arabella to discuss the world of metal singing, offering insights into its unique demands and benefits. He debunks common myths about metal vocals, emphasizing healthy technique, the genre's passionate nature, and its strong community. Johnny also shares practical advice on vocal warm-ups and how rigorous practice builds foundational skills for any singer.Topics Covered:Demystifying metal vocals and exploring its passionate, introspective nature.The athletic connection between classical and metal singing techniques.Building a healthy metal voice through vocal fundamentals like breath support and pharyngeal control.Why practical vocal exercises, like warm-ups, are essential for all singers.The strong, supportive community found within the metal music scene.📩 Connect with Johnny Ray:https://stellarvocals.comhttps://themourningmusic.comPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Zack Auslander, a versatile musician now based in Japan, joins Arabella to discuss his unique journey through the music industry. He shares insights on skill development and adaptation, highlighting the concept of "paid practice" from cruise ship performances. This episode offers practical advice for musicians on cultivating critical skills like ear training and understanding the modern music landscape.Topics Covered:The "paid practice" concept in cruise ship performances and its role in musical development.Prioritizing ear training, instrumental technique, and music theory for professional readiness.Practical methods for developing ear training skills, including singing scales and sight-reading melodies.How musicians adapt to evolving industry trends, from social media content to revenue streams.Deep-diving into the music and influences of artists you admire to accelerate personal growth.Connect with Zack:https://www.instagram.com/zackauslander/Podcast Production by Podders https://podders.io

This episode features Taylor Rossi, a Boston-based photographer who shares her unique journey from music education and performance to building a successful entrepreneurial career. She discusses how her background as a flutist and teacher informs her current work, emphasizing the lifelong process of learning and adapting musical skills for personal fulfillment. The conversation explores the idea that music doesn't always have to be the main profession, but can be seamlessly integrated into one's life.Topics Covered:Navigating the transition from music education to an entrepreneurial path in photography.Understanding and embracing the concept of lifelong learning in all aspects of life.Integrating diverse skills, such as music and marketing, to build a unique career.Viewing professional challenges as information for growth, not as failures.The importance of reflection, re-evaluation, and personal freedom in your chosen field.📫Connect with Taylor:https://www.taylorrossiphotography.com/✏️ Sign up for the Mini Headshot Event at Somerville Music Spaces:https://calendly.com/taylorrossi/mini-headshot-event-smsPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

In this episode of In My Musical Opinion, host Arabella Berman speaks with Anna Altman, a multi-talented artist who has transitioned from acting and singing to film production, writing, and directing. Anna shares how her deep passion for music has naturally integrated into her filmmaking, demonstrating how musical knowledge and artistic intuition can open doors to diverse creative industries beyond traditional performance. They discuss the realities of producing a music-driven film, from the initial spark of an idea to securing funding and collaborating with other artists.Topics Covered:Expanding Musical Careers: Discovering diverse applications for musical skills beyond performance, such as film production and writing.The Creative Process in Film: How music influences story development and the challenges of finding the right musical collaborators.Fundraising for Artistic Projects: Overcoming the challenges of securing funding to bring creative visions to life.The Power of Intuition and Collaboration: Valuing your artistic instincts and the importance of working with others to expand your creative output.Redefining Success: Understanding that "overnight success" is a myth and appreciating the journey of artistic development.📩 Connect with Anna Altman:https://www.causematch.com/linernotesPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Host Arabella Berman welcomes Alyssa Harris, also known as The Six Figure Singer, an expert in career coaching for professional musicians. Alyssa shares insights on closing the education gap for artists, demonstrating that a sustainable income in music is achievable. This episode offers practical advice on valuing your talent, diversifying income streams within the industry, and building a thriving career through consistent effort.Topics Covered:Addressing the education gap for professional musicians.Dismantling the "starving artist" narrative.Diversifying income streams solely within the music industry.Understanding your value and worth as a professional performer.The importance of consistency and relationship building for career growth.📩 Connect with Alyssa Harris:Instagram: https://instagram.com/alyssaharrismusicInstagram: https://instagram.com/thesixfiguresingerWebsite: https://www.alyssaharrismusic.comPodcast Production by Podders https://podders.io

Arabella welcomes Quinn back to the podcast after his graduation from Berklee. This episode focuses on the unique world of metal and extreme vocals. Quinn shares his expertise on how to approach teaching and performing distortion, the songwriting process in a metal band, and the athletic demands of this vocal style.Topics Covered:Teaching and Learning Extreme Vocals: Quinn discusses the challenge of identifying and manipulating the correct muscles for distortion, emphasizing the role of trial-and-error.Understanding Vocal Distortion: The conversation explores different types of extreme singing in metal, distinguishing it from clean vocals and drawing analogies to guitar distortion.Songwriting for Metal vs. Clean Vocals: Quinn explains how his songwriting process differs drastically based on whether he's composing for his metal band or for clean, melodic pieces.Vocal Health and Athleticism: The episode covers the importance of vocal hygiene for metal singers, comparing the athletic demands of extreme vocals to classical opera singing.Building a Metal Vocal Community: Quinn shares his experience finding like-minded musicians and forming a band in a collegiate setting, even without formal metal singing programs.The Power of Diverse Skills: He concludes by highlighting how unexpected skills, like playing guitar or piano, can open doors professionally.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

In this episode, Arabella speaks with Quinn Biron Warren, a teaching instructor at AVS who is finishing his final year of music school while actively performing in a metal band and teaching voice students. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of balancing formal music education with real-world musical pursuits, offering valuable insights for college-age musicians considering their educational and career paths. Quinn shares his journey from discovering metal music in sixth grade to becoming a vocal instructor specializing in distortion techniques, while discussing how he manages the demanding schedule of being a student, teacher, and performer simultaneously.Topics Covered:Balancing music school coursework with band rehearsals, performances, and teaching responsibilities.The pros and cons of formal music education versus self-directed learning.How teaching experience influences learning and provides different perspectives on music education.Scheduling strategies for managing multiple musical commitments and collaborative projects.The debate between curriculum-based versus individualized approaches to music instruction.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Host Arabella Berman welcomes Meghan Purdue, a digital learning expert with experience at MIT and Fidelity, to explore the intricacies of online music education. Meghan shares her personal journey of teaching herself piano using digital resources and her professional insights on designing effective e-learning, particularly for artistic disciplines. The discussion offers musicians valuable perspectives on leveraging digital tools for practice, understanding concepts like cognitive load for skill acquisition, and navigating the evolving landscape of online learning.Topics Covered:Megan's transition into digital learning and her experience self-teaching piano through online platforms and apps.Applying learning principles like managing cognitive load and isolating skills for effective online music practice.The benefits of interactive tools providing immediate feedback for learning foundational music skills.Challenges and considerations for creating engaging and effective digital learning experiences in the arts.The importance of focused, daily practice and choosing motivating material when learning music online.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Lisa Kent, a serial entrepreneur and host of the Dauntless podcast, joins Arabella to discuss business strategies for artists. They explore how understanding your audience, developing network strategies, and finding allies can help musicians build their brand. Lisa's experience in growing and marketing companies offers practical advice for navigating the music industry.Lisa Kent and Arabella cover important aspects of marketing and business for artists. You will learn about:Content delivery and management.Developing effective network strategies.The importance of knowing your audience.How to find and cultivate allies.📩 Connect with Lisa Kent:https://dauntless.worksPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Bestselling author Jenna Blum talks with Arabella about connecting writing and music. They discuss how you can embrace your creative identity, manage multiple projects, and build community as an artist. Jenna shares insights from writing her musical audio drama and founding the author platform, A Mighty Blaze.Topics Covered:Embracing your identity as a professional creative.Managing multiple ideas using focus techniques and a “maybe later” list.Building community and the importance of asking for help.Balancing creative passions with practical needs like multiple income streams.📩 Connect with Jenna Blum:https://www.jennablum.comhttps://www.amightyblaze.comPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Kamillah Collins, an advertising strategist, joins Arabella to discuss the crucial role of strategy for musicians and artists. They explore how defining your why, understanding your audience, and developing a messaging framework (even with a limited budget) can provide the structure needed to effectively promote your creative work and navigate the path from artistic passion to performance and connection.Kamillah Collins brings her expertise in advertising strategy, honed through experience at agencies like BBDO where she transitioned from a creative role to strategy. She has advised Arabella on brand strategy for AVS and Piano for the Vocalist, demonstrating how strategic thinking applies directly to building an artist's presence.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

In this episode of In My Musical Opinion, Florie Namir shares her journey integrating piano and voice, discussing how instrumental skills can ground vocal performance and improvisation like scat singing. The conversation emphasizes the importance of dedicated, smart practice for mastering complex skills like self-accompaniment and highlights how authentic songwriting stems from connecting life experiences with musical expression.Florie Namir is a jazz-pop singer-songwriter and classically trained composer with a PhD in composition and theory. Drawing on her international performance experience and background teaching theory and composition at institutions like Harvard and MIT, she offers insights into musicianship, practice, and the creative process.Connect with Florie NamirWebsite: https://florienamir.com/home/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/florienamir/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/florienamir/Podcast Production by Podders https://podders.io

In this episode of Piano for the Vocalist, host Arabella welcomes Adrian Avalos, Events and Marketing Coordinator at Democracy Brewing in Boston. They discuss effective networking strategies for artists seeking gigs, emphasizing the importance of building genuine relationships, personalized outreach, and professional etiquette in the music industry. With a strong background in customer relations and event coordination, Adrian is dedicated to fostering inclusive and welcoming event spaces that celebrate community and the arts.Key TakeawaysPersonalized Outreach: Tailoring communication to each venue demonstrates genuine interest and increases the likelihood of securing gigs.​Building Relationships: Establishing authentic connections with venue staff and event coordinators can lead to recurring performance opportunities.​Professional Etiquette: Punctuality, preparedness, and courteous interactions with venue personnel and audiences contribute to a positive reputation.​Collaborative Promotion: Engaging in mutual promotion with venues through social media and other channels can enhance visibility and audience turnout.​Continuous Engagement: Following up after performances and maintaining communication with venues can pave the way for future bookings.​Podcast Production by Podders https://podders.io

In this episode of Piano for the Vocalist, Dr. Hubert Ho explains how integrating piano skills into a vocalist’s routine can enhance warm-ups, improve performance, and strengthen musical independence. The conversation spotlights efficient practice methods, such as mindful repetition and chunking, and shows how building a solid theory foundation can support creative growth.Dr. Hubert Ho is an accomplished pianist, composer, and educator with a background in both music and physics. Currently teaching at Northeastern University and serving as a key figure in the Dinosaur Annex Music Ensemble, Dr. Ho shares insights drawn from his extensive experience composing, performing, and guiding students toward deeper theoretical understanding.Key TakeawaysEfficient practice routines, including focused repetition of challenging passages, lead to faster progress.Combining mental study and hands-on practice helps develop stronger interpretive and technical skills.Blending theory with performance encourages creative exploration and independent music-making.Understanding diverse musical structures expands a musician’s expressive capabilities.Challenging yourself outside your comfort zone—like learning a new style—can accelerate your growth.Connect with Dr. Hubert HoWebsite: https://huberthomusic.wordpress.com/SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/huberthomusicDinosaur Annex: https://www.dinosaurannex.orgPodcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io

Arabella and Emet discuss the advantages of incorporating piano into a vocalist’s practice routine. They share personal stories on how piano enhances vocal performance, helps with warm-ups, and supports independent music-making. They also explore goal-setting strategies, practice methods, and the importance of understanding basic music theory.Emet Saltzman-WenigerA voice teacher and multi-instrumentalist contributing to curriculum design and community outreach at Arabella’s Voice Studio. Emet is also a songwriter, arranger, and performer with a strong background in music theory.Key Takeaways:Begin with simple chords and scales to self-accompany as a singer.Identify clear goals for each practice session.Use a practice journal to break down macro goals into smaller steps.Don’t be afraid to revisit “the basics” (rhythm, simple chords) even at advanced levels.Choose a learning method (traditional lessons, group studio, apps, or self-study) aligned with your personal goals.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.io