The Stereo Image

This episode of The Stereo Image features world-renowned pianist Olga Kern discussing her musical upbringing, life on tour, and teaching at the Manhattan School of Music. Olga shares stories about winning major competitions, her family’s musical lineage, a vivid dream of Rachmaninoff, and why studying a composer’s life matters. She also talks about the power of live performance and her upcoming concert schedule.

Host Mike talks with composer Jeff Beal about his wide-ranging career — from jazz trumpet and early breakthrough with Pollock to TV and film work like House of Cards and Monk. They discuss Beal’s current projects, including his piano etudes, a new choral work premiered by the LA Master Chorale, a Rod Serling documentary score, and his upcoming world premiere of a new score for Fritz Lang’s Metropolis. The conversation also explores Beal’s creative process, the influence of jazz, his move back to New York, how the pandemic reshaped his priorities, and his experience living with multiple sclerosis — with music playing a central role in both his artistry and wellness. Learn more about Jeff: Jeff Beal.com Jeff on YouTube

This week we are so excited to have the phenomenal conductor, Leonard Slatkin! Leonard is an icon of the classical music world but he grew up surrounded by jazz giants and Hollywood legends. Not many people can say that Frank Sinatra tucked him in as a child! This episode marks 1 year of The Stereo Image! To celebrate, we recorded this in person at Mike's Las Vegas home. Learn more about Leonard: Leonard Slatkin.com Las Vegas Philharmonic Nashville Symphony Leonard Slatkin on YouTube

Glenn Alai joins the Stereo Image to trace his lifelong love of variety entertainment — from growing up on TV specials and Atlantic City shows to studying casino entertainment at UNLV and building the Penn & Teller organization into a Las Vegas mainstay. He shares backstage stories, career-defining moments, and how he helped bring vintage performers and modern magicians like Piff into the mainstream, reflecting on decades of change in show business and the resilience of live performance.

“They didn’t let anyone sit in at Bradley’s unless you were Bill Evans!” This week we continue our conversation with Judy Carmichael as she recalls leaving Disneyland, moving to New York, and breaking into the jazz world. She shares encounters with legends like Roy Eldridge and Tommy Flanagan, the pivotal "Handful of Keys" moment, and how determination and talent won her respect. Judy also reflects on career choices—staying true to jazz instead of commercial work—her friendships and supporters, and how a New York Times feature helped launch her wider recognition. More info on Judy: Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired Judy on YouTube

"There is a time when you just have to say 'LAYOUT'!" This week on The Stereo Image, Judy Carmichael, celebrated stride pianist, joins Mike to discuss her musical journey—from discovering vintage player pianos and Count Basie recordings to early gigs, mentors like Dave McKenna, and studying the greats by ear rather than transcription. They explore performing solo, accompanying herself, the importance of listening and mentorship, experiences playing with top jazz musicians, and how live performance shaped her distinctive style. More info: Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired Judy on YouTube

Our latest guest is Céline Peterson, daughter of legendary jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. Céline and Mike talk about the importance of fair treatment and appreciation for artists. Céline shares her experiences managing artists and the impact of social media on music careers, while also reflecting on her upbringing in a musical family. More info for this episode: Oscar Peterson's 100th Birthday Celebraion Year Oscar, With Love Bassist Dave Young Drummer Mark McLean Britney Spears (YouTube) Sarah Vaughan (YouTube) John Mayer (YouTube) Céline Peterson Artist Representation Vocalist Caity Gyorgy Capri Records

This week, Mike chats with Randy Pitchford. Randy owns Gearbox Software which produces the Borderlands game series among others. He is incredibly smart and insightful. Mike and Randy talk about the creative music kids are making these days and how it relates to the music earlier generations created. Randy grew up in a musical family and plays the piano himself. But that’s not all! Randy is also an accomplished magician and performer. It’s fascinating to hear his take on music from the perspective of a technical and creative visionary like him. More info for this episode: Peacock Theater of Frisco, Texas Fleetwood Mac Frank Sinatra The Black Box opera singer Timur Tony Fitzpatrick Magic Castle Irma ghost piano player

We are so excited to have Eric Mingus on this week’s episode! In fact, that Mike stammers through the first part of the episode because he’s so excited! Luckily he gets past that and he and Eric have a wonderful discussion about his own recent projects and a little about growing up as a member of jazz royalty with his dad Charles Mingus. Note: Occasionally you hear some dogs in the background. Eric was fostering a bunch of dogs when we talked. Mike's cat, Ella, gave her meow of approval. Eric talks about his heritage and his experiences with music growing up. He shares his feelings on the experience of live acoustic instruments. He talks about his collaboration with Yoyo Ma. Through it all he’s a lovely guy! More info for this episode: The Mill - collaboration between Yoyo Ma and Eric Mingus Hal Willner Weird Nightmare (plays in YouTube) Mingus Mill in North Carolina Harry Smith Collection of folk music Illinois Jacquet - Jumpin At Apollo bassist Red Callender Dimitri Toimkin well-known phot with Monk, Charlie Parker, Roy Haines, Charles Mingus Charles Mingus in the Library of Congress Beneath the Underdog (Charles Mingus autobiography) The Ertegun Brothers bassist Gary Karr guitarist Hubert Sumlin pianist Don Pullen Billy Gibbons guitarist in ZZ Top Karen Mantler and My Cat Arnold David Sandborn’s Night Music TV show (YouTube clips) Michael Brecker Jeff Friedman - Ellington Effect Berklee College of Music Susan Berk

Today we are excited to have Tim Jenison on the podcast. If we were looking for guests who would literally embody the name of this show, Tim would be the perfect guest. He is an inventor, filmmaker, musician, and amazing technician who’s current project is to build a recording studio using only analogue gear. He knows his tech and he knows his music too. You might have heard of him from his Tim’s Vermeer documentary but I talk with him more about one of his latest projects. He’s building a recording studio near his home but he’s using only analog gear. It’s fascinating to hear about the challenges he’s facing and why people still look for that analog experience in todays digital world. More info for this episode: Tim's Vermeer (IMDB) Monty Alexander Shure 55 Elivs Mic (Wikipedia) Herbie Hancock - Empyrean Isles (YouTube) Bosendorfer Pianos Weber Duo-Art Player Piano (YouTube) Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces (YouTube) Switched on Bach (YouTube)

In this episode, Mike chats with former Chicago Tribune music critic, Howard Reich. Howard shares his journey from being a jazz critic to becoming an accidental filmmaker and opera writer. He emphasizes the role of music in storytelling and the importance of critics in promoting lesser-known artists. He also reflects on his transition to new artistic mediums like opera and ballet, celebrating the legacy of musicians and the power of music to shape identity and experience. More Info for this episode: Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F (YouTube) An American in Paris trailer (YouTube) Makoto Ozone - pianist (YouTube) Patricia Barber - pianist (YouTube) Kurt Elling (YouTube) Mike Jones - Duke Ellington Medley (YouTube) Prisoner of Her Past - Book by Howard Reich The Art of Inventing Hope - Book by Howard Reich Kimikos Pearl - Ballet inspired by Howard Reich For the Left Hand - Documentary by Howard Reich From Howard’s website: Howard was born in Chicago and at age 10 moved with his family to Skokie, a northern suburb that was a nexus of Holocaust survivors, like his parents. At age 16, Howard happened on the film “An American in Paris” and instantly became obsessed with music. By 18 he was a piano performance major at Northwestern, and at 22 he began freelancing articles on music for the Chicago Daily News. The next year he started contributing arts coverage to the Chicago Tribune, where he was hired full time in 1983 and spent his entire newspaper career. Howard’s stories took him to London, Paris, Warsaw, Vienna, Moscow, Munich, Prague, Havana, Panama and other locales, as well as deep into one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world: Chicago. Howard served for 32 years as the Tribune’s jazz critic, the last three years doubling as classical/opera critic. He retired from the newspaper in 2021, continues writing for the stage and page, and lives in a Chicago suburb with Pam Becker, his wife, a retired Tribune editor. Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Our latest guest is Ashley Kahn, author, educator, and deep thinker! He and Mike discuss how people discover and listen to music today and how it differs from the past. More info for this episode: Paul Simon's Graceland (YouTube) Dr John - There Must Be A Better World Somewhere (YouTube) International Society of Jazz Arrangers & Composers John Beasley - pianist Tuesday's Just As Bad Radio Show Hot Tuna Blues (YouTube) The Universal Tone By Ashley Kahn Monty Alexander - pianist Montreux Alexander (YouTube) Kenny Banks Jr - Take 5 (YouTube) Theo Croker From Wikipedia: Ashley Kahn (b. 1960) is an American music historian, journalist, and producer. He was born in the Bronx, New York, and was raised in Cincinnati. Kahn graduated from Columbia University in 1983. While attending Columbia, he hosted a jazz and blues radio show on WKCR, and was known on the air as "The Cincinnati Kid." In 2014, Kahn co-authored the autobiography of Carlos Santana, titled The Universal Tone: Bringing My Story To Light. To date, his most critically acclaimed books have been on two major jazz albums, Kind of Blue by Miles Davis and A Love Supreme by John Coltrane. He pens articles, interviews and other features on music, and is a prolific liner note writer for a variety of music labels, and for which he has earned three ASCAP/Deems Taylor awards, and three Grammy nominations. In 2015, he was awarded a Grammy for his album notes to the John Coltrane release Offering: Live at Temple University.

This week’s episode features Marc Myers. If you are a lover of all things music, Marc is the man for you. If you appreciate music's history and evolution, Marc is the man for you. If you have always wanted to get into jazz music but just didn’t know where to begin or what to listen for, Marc is the man for you! Marc is the creator of JazzWax which hosts a wealth of history, stories, opinions, and more about jazz and other forms of music. We talk a little about the musicians Marc has known over the years and what it’s like to meet them. Marc and Mike share their opinions of rock and jazz and the musical process. Marc is fascinating to talk to. Marc Myers is a frequent music and arts contributor to The Wall Street Journal. He writes two regular columns—“House Call,” in which he interviews Hollywood actors on their childhood years, and “Album@50,” on pop albums celebrating a 50th anniversary and how they changed music history. He is the author of “Why Jazz Happened,” two volumes of “Anatomy of a Song” and “Rock Concert: An Oral History.” He posts five days a week at his award-winning JazzWax.com blog, launched in 2007.

This week, Mike is talking with Jason Garfield. Jason is a great juggler. But don’t roll your eyes at that. He does a lot of other things too! Jason is trying to get juggling into the Olympics and he talks a little about the struggles involved in that. He is also a fitness buff and he and Mike have a lot to say about that. Mostly Mike which is odd since Jason is the expert. Jason also learned to play the piano… sort of . He has opinions about that too. We had a great time talking with Jason and we hope you enjoy it too! More info for this episode: Valentina Lisitsa playing Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (YouTube) Valentina Lisitsa playing Moonlight Sonata 3rd Mvmt (YouTube) Jason Garfield's 5 ring color change (YouTube) The World Juggling Federation Eminem - Houdini (YouTube) Rhythmic Gymnastics - Varfolomeev's ball routine (YouTube) Jason Garfield's Fast Food series (YouTube) Leafside Meals Jason Garfield's bio: Jason started juggling when he was 11 years old. He went on to win International Juggling Association championships and World Juggling Federation championships. He has performed on cruise ships, television, and across the internet. Additionally, he has produced programs for ESPN and others related to juggling and fitness. Currently he is not only a professional performer but also a fitness and health coach.

In a first for this podcast (and probably many others) our guest is a magic dragon! Of course his lovely and talented sidekick, Jade Simone, is here too! In fact, while Piff has many musical opinions, Jade is the one with the extensive musical background. This episode is kind of a free-for-all. It’s what you would expect from a dragon. Among the fray, many musical opinions are expressed. In the end, we learn that AI is coming for us all, including dragons! Because this was recorded at Piff & Jade’s recording lair, who is hosting the show is a little uncertain at times. Luckily Jade is there to anchor the chaos. It was so much fun talking with Piff & Jade. We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we did recording it. More info for this episode: Animal Planet: The Haunted (Wikipedia link) David Byrne (YouTube link) Miles Davis - Kind of Blue (YouTube link) Norah Jones (YouTube link) Mike Jones Trio - Are You Sure You Three Guys Know What You're Doing? Piff's first appearance on Fool Us (YouTube link) Piff & Pop's UK Tour Andy Paley (Wikipedia link) Suno AI Music Piff & Jade bio: Piff is a British magician who came to fame on Penn & Teller’s Fool Us. He moved to the US where he began performing in Las Vegas and appearing on America’s Got Talent along with his partner, Jade Simone. Jade grew up in Dallas, Texas and performed as an emcee and showgirl for several years before teaming up with Piff. You can see them nightly at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas or on tour around the world. Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

For the month of September, Mike is talking to 2 of his good friends. He talks to them separately but they make up a comedy-juggling duo who have performed together for many years. Because of that, the humor gets a little… sarcastic, biting, and even sometimes harsh. With that disclaimer out of the way… Today Mike talks with Scotty Meltzer. Scotty is the other half of the juggling-comedy duo at Comedy Industries. Scotty is incredibly smart, funny, articulate, and LOVES being the butt of the joke. That is certainly evident throughout this discussion! Mike and Scotty discuss Scotty’s bad taste in music that originated from a childhood in musical theater and drumming. They talk about how that translates to a corporate juggling act that relies on comedy and the variety arts to hype up an otherwise mundane message. More info from this episode: 24 TV Show (Wikipedia) Ribbons Down My Back (YouTube) Katie Thiroux (YouTube) Michael Goudeau (Wikipedia) Ethel Merman - There's No Business Like Show Business (YouTube) Sutton Foster - Anything Goes (YouTube) Cynthia Erivo & Herbie Hancock - Fly Me To The Moon (YouTube) Prog Rock (Wikipedia) From Scotty’s website bio: Scott Meltzer (known as Scotty to his friend) is head writer and a principle performer for Comedy Industries. Scott has degrees in computer science and mathematics from U. C. Berkeley where he graduated with honors. An ex-IBMer and a Watson Scholar, Scott chooses to spend his time writing comedy and juggling knives on a six-foot unicycle while escaping from more straitjackets than any other computer programmer in the world. He’s also appeared on ESPN as the expert commentator for their coverage of The World Juggling Federation competitions. Comedy Industries Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Today Mike talks with Katrine Spang-Hanssen. She is a great juggler and drummer, a funny conversationalist, a lovely person, and one half of Comedy Industries. Mike and Katrine discuss their love of jazz music, their experiences with other music growing up, and what it’s like to work in a performing duo. Of course the ultimate performing duo, Penn & Teller, come up numerous times. Katrine is from Denmark! We’ll get that out of the way now because Mike continues a long running joke of confusing where she is from. But! She has lived in San Francisco for many years and tells about experiencing juggling and music in the bay area from the 1990’s to today. For the month of September, Mike is talking to 2 of his good friends. He talks to them separately but they make up a comedy-juggling duo who have performed together for many years. Because of that, the humor gets a little… sarcastic, biting, and even sometimes harsh. With that disclaimer out of the way… More Info for this episode: Nat Cole Trio - Bring Another Drink (YouTube) Styx playlist on YouTube Abba Greatist Hits playlist on YouTube Jesus Christ Superstar playlist on YouTube Penn & Teller's Secret to a 50 Year Partnership - article in New York Times From Katrine’s website bio: Katrine Spang-Hanssen is one the world’s premiere female jugglers. She has toured the world opening for stars such as Kenny Rodgers, Willie Nelson, and Natalie Cole. She’s performed at hundreds of comedy clubs, fairs, festivals, colleges, and theater productions. Together with Scott Meltzer and the rest of the CI group, she has performed an infinite number of trade show presentations and sales meetings, presenting for corporate clients ranging from startups in 10×10 booths along the back wall to Fortune 100 diamond sponsors. Katrine & Scotty's juggling duo: Comedy Industries Katrine's band: Shake It Booty Band Mike Jones bio: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Jones attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and after college he remained in the city, working with such eminent local players as Herb Pomeroy and Gray Sargent. After significant East Coast performances, appearances at the Floating Jazz Festival on the S.S. Norway and the Queen Elizabeth ll, and a series of recordings that established him as a world-class pianist steeped in the pre-bop jazz tradition, Jones relocated to Las Vegas. There he caught the ear of Penn Jillette who, in 2002, brought Jones onboard for the nightly Penn and Teller show at Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Jonesy and Michael Close explore the intertwined worlds of music and magic, delving into Michael's early influences, his journey into both fields, and the challenges he faced as a performer in Las Vegas. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the evolution of live music in Vegas, and the realities of pursuing a career in the arts. In their conversation, Jonesy and Michael Close delve into the intricacies of cocktail piano performances, the challenges of solo gigs, and the evolution of audience engagement. They share memorable stories from their musical journeys, reflect on their influences, and discuss the impact of technology on music learning. The conversation also touches on the future of jazz and the role of magic in entertainment, particularly through the lens of the television show 'Fool Us.' More info from this episode Dave McKenna plays Nobody Else But Me (YouTube) Ben Patterson at the Green Mill (YouTube) Lance Burton (YouTube) Penn & Teller's Fool Us on the CW More info about Mike Close Mike Close Magic by Mike Close on Vanishing Magic, Inc

Our guest this week is the indomitable actor, Dean Cameron! You may have seen him in Summer School, Ski School, or the TV show for Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Or you've seen him in one of his numerous other acting gigs that don't involve school. In addition to acting, he plays in a fun band called Low Speed Chase and he wrote (with the help of his Nigerian friend) and acted in a hilarious play called Nigerian Spam Scam Scam. We talk about all that and his experiences growing up and getting into music as well. Check him out! More information from this show: Coreyoke (on YouTube) Led Zeppelin 77 Tour at the Forum in LA (on YouTube) Nigeriam Spam Scam Scam (on YouTube) More about Dean Cameron and Low Speed Chase Dean Cameron's Website Dean Cameron on IMDB Low Speed Chase Music Low Speed Chase on Instagram

Welcome to Part 2 of Mike's talk with Hank O'Neal. In Part 1 we discussed the creation of Chiaroscuro Records and Hank's work on the jazz cruises. In this part Hank shares more stories from the jazz cruises as well as discussions about his photography and his "government work" in which he has since made a donation to the CIA museum... Additionally, they discuss the art of photography, capturing moments, and the changing value of creative work in today's digital age. Hank is a renaissance man who has experienced so much of history and technology in the later part of the 20th century. More information about topics in this episode: Hank's personal website with info about his photography and books Hank's photos from the jazz cruises Chiaroscuro Records - Classic Jazz Archives

This week we present part 1 of Mike's chat with Hank O'Neal. In this first part, Hank shares his journey through the world of jazz music, detailing the founding and evolution of Chiaroscuro Records, his early musical influences, and the innovative concept of jazz cruises. With anecdotes about legendary musicians and insights into the music industry, Hank provides a rich tapestry of experiences that highlight the importance of creativity and passion in music. Jonesy and Hank discuss the evolving landscape of jazz music, the significance of jazz cruises, and the memorable experiences shared with legendary musicians. They delve into the journey of building a recording studio and the evolution of Chiaroscuro in the 70's, 80's, and 90's. Learn more about some of the topics discussed: Chiaroscuro Records Hank O'Neal on Wikipedia Sherman Fairchild on Wikipedia Indian Love Call from Rose Marie vs. Indian Love Call by Artie Shaw

This week, Jonesy and Jon Bates explore the profound impact of music on personal experiences, the cultural shifts of the 1960s, and the journey of navigating a career in the music industry. Jon shares his early influences, the significance of live music, and the challenges he faced, including addiction. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and understanding the business side of music, all while celebrating the universal language of music that connects us all. In this engaging conversation, Jon Bates shares vivid memories of his experiences in the vibrant jazz scene of New York City, particularly around Christopher Street during a transformative era. He recounts his time working at Chiaroscuro Records, the challenges and triumphs of navigating the music industry, and the impact of substance abuse on musicians. More information about topics in this episode: Chiaroscuro Records Louie Bellson on Wikipedia Buddy Rich on Wikipedia Christopher Street in New York City More on Jon Bates: The Jon Bates Band

In this conversation, Eric Montzka shares his journey as a drummer in the Chicago music scene, discussing his early influences, professional experiences, and the evolution of live music. He reflects on the importance of wedding bands, the impact of technology on music, and the future of jazz performance. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of being a musician in today's world, emphasizing the enduring love for music despite industry changes. More information on topics from this episode: Eric Montzka Discography The Green Mill in Chicago Patricia Barber Pink Floyd's Breathe - open in YouTube

This week I talked with Todd McCaffrey. He is a fantasy and science fiction author and an AI enthusiast. Todd took a break from packing up to move to Ireland to get a degree in Cyber Psychology to talk with me. We discuss his upbringing and how he got into writing along with his mom, Anne McCaffrey. Over the years he has served in the military, been a computer programmer, become a pilot, written almost 100 books, and so much more. He has helped continue the fantasy series his mom started, The Dragonriders of Pern, and written several of his own. I hope you enjoy my talk with Todd McCaffrey! Todd McCaffrey's website Rocket City Boys - the book that inspired Todd to study Cyber Psychology Anne McCaffrey on the Pern Fandom Wiki Dragonriders of Pern series

This week on The Stereo Image, I talk with Dara Gottfried. You might know her as the wife of Gilbert Gottfried but she has had a really cool and fascinating career as a music executive before even meeting Gilbert. We talk about the music industry in the 90's and how it's so different from today. We also talk about Gilbert and how much of a genius he was. I hope you enjoy this episode of The Stereo Image! Follow us on Instagram or Blue Sky for lots more! Links to topics discussed in this episode: Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast Arlene Gottfried's Photography Matchbox 20

This week, I am joined by Bill Prady. You may know some of his work: The Big Bang Theory and even the Muppets. Bill is a friend from way back. We discuss his recent foray into saxophone playing. I've heard him and he's really good. We also discuss listening to music really getting into and enjoying the sound. I had a great time chatting with him and I think you'll enjoy him too. More information from this episode: Ray Brown counting in Lined with a Groove with a phone ring Betty Buckley (Wikipedia) Christian Jacob (Wikipedia) Marantz receivers Ron Carter (Wikipedia) More about Bill Prady: Bill Prady on IMDB Bill Prady on Wikipedia Bill Prady on Instagram

David Silverman is a fantastic artist and animator. You might have heard of the show he works on: The Simpsons. But he's also a fantastic tuba player and a fount of knowledge about classical music. His enthusiasm knows no bounds! In this engaging conversation, David Silverman shares his journey through music, from his early influences in classical and jazz to his deep appreciation for 20th-century composers. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his musical understanding and the connections he made with fellow musicians. The discussion highlights the importance of education in music and the unique fascination with low instruments, showcasing Silverman's passion and insights into the world of music. In this conversation, David Silverman discusses the evolution of brass instruments, particularly the tuba, and its unique role in music and film scores. More info from this episode: The Simpsons (Wikipedia) Ophicleide (Wikipedia) Carnival of the Animals - Saint Saens (YouTube) Gilbert & Sullivan - Pirates of Penzance (YouTube) Stravinsky - The Firebird (YouTube) Prokofiev - Romeo and Juliet (YouTube) Berlioz - Symphonie Fantastique (YouTube) David Silverman plays the flaming tuba at Burning Man (YouTube) David Silverman's work: IMDB David Silvmerman on Wikipedia

This week, Mike talks with Dave Jemilo! Dave owns the fabulous Green Mill in Chicago - the oldest jazz club in the US. Dave is not known as a musician but he got his start with his friends in elementary school in their band Dave Jemilo and the Gems! They never played a gig and in Dave's words, they sucked! But it was the beginning of what would lead Dave to own and run one of the foremost jazz clubs in the world. In this engaging conversation, Dave Jemilo shares his journey from college football player to successful jazz club owner. He discusses his early experiences juggling multiple jobs, his first solo gig, and the pivotal moment when he decided to pursue a career in music and business. Jemilo reflects on the creation of vibrant jazz scenes, particularly at the Green Mill, and the evolution of live music in Chicago. He also touches on his current musical tastes and the unique experience of owning a venue that showcases top jazz talent. More info from this episode: Sing Sing Sing - Benny Goodman Orchestra (YouTube) Chuck Berry - Johnny B. Goode (YouTube) Eric Dolphy - Jitterbug Waltz (YouTube) Hank Mobley - The Best Things In Life Are Free (YouTube) Check out Dave's club: The Green Mill

This week, Mike talks with Matt Donnelly. He is hilarious to chat with. He is an accomplished improv actor, stage magician/mentalist, a writer on Penn & Teller's Fool Us, and! he has a really fun podcast with his friend Paul Mattingly. In this conversation, Mike and Matt talk music, comedy, and Bruce Springsteen - The Boss! They reminisce about listening to the radio and watching music on MTV. They talk broadway musicals like only they can! Mentioned in this episode: Bruce Springsteen Official Website Bruce Springsteen on Wikipedia Bruse Springsteen on YouTube Mamma Mia! Musical (Wikipedia) Jersey Boys Musical (Wikipedia) Check out Matt's magic and mentalism: The Mind Noodler Check out Matt's podcast: Matt and Mattingly's Ice Cream Social

This week's episode is a little different. Back when we were first discussing the idea of a podcast, Russ agreed to talk with Mike as a test run. He was so much fun that we wanted to release it! Mike and Russ have known each other since their days at Berklee College of music together. Mike was a pianist and Russ was a drummer and percussionist. Russ discusses the ups and downs of the life of a working musician. Russ's website: Russ Gold Drums Russ's Book: Phrasing: Advanced Rudiments of Creative Drumming

In this conversation, John Kiehl shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by music to his experiences in education and the pivotal moments that shaped his musical identity. He reflects on the influence of his mother, his early musical education, and the transition from mathematics to music, highlighting key experiences that ignited his passion for jazz and performance. In this conversation, John Kiehl shares his journey from facing health challenges during college to navigating the complexities of the music industry. He discusses his transition from a dual major in electrical engineering and humanities to becoming a professional musician, including his unexpected shift to playing bass. Kiehl reflects on the importance of perseverance, the role of mentorship in his development, and the serendipitous opportunities that led him to a successful career in music production. In this engaging conversation, John Kiehl and Mike Jones explore the journey of building a successful music studio, the role of luck in their careers, and the deep connections formed through music. They share personal stories, reflect on their influences, and discuss the importance of being present in the moment. Mentioned in this episode: Sergio Mendes on the Jerry Lewis Show Herb Pomeroy Vietnam War Draft - Wikipedia John Kiehl's recording studio: Soundtrack New York

In this conversation, Mike Jones and Neil Tesser explore the rich history of jazz, its personal significance in Tesser's life, and the evolution of jazz radio and clubs in Chicago. Tesser shares his early experiences with music, his transition from classical to jazz, and his journey through the vibrant Chicago jazz scene. They discuss the importance of community, education, and the avant-garde movement in jazz, reflecting on how these elements shape the current landscape of jazz music. In this engaging conversation, Mike Jones and Neil Tesser explore the rich legacy of jazz, focusing on figures like Sun Ra and the AACM, the intricacies of writing liner notes, and the personal listening habits of a jazz critic. They delve into unexpected musical influences and share anecdotes about their friendship and collaboration, highlighting the importance of connection in the music world. Learn more about Neil Tesser: Wikipedia

Mike and Andy have known each other for around 40 years - from their days working at Soundtrack Recording Studio. Mike as a session pianist and Andy as a recording engineer. They met up again when they realized they had a mutual friend in Penn Jillette of Penn & Teller. Andy spends these days taking wildlife photography and directing voice over artists. He has a fascinating take on growing and working in the audio industry. Mike and Andy delve into the profound impact of music on their lives, exploring early influences, family connections, and the evolution of their musical tastes. They reflect on the significance of concerts, the role of radio, and the nostalgic memories tied to record stores and cultural experiences. The discussion highlights how music shaped their identities and continues to resonate in their lives. In this conversation, Mike Jones and Andy discuss the evolution of music consumption, the decline of liner notes, and the challenges faced by modern musicians in the industry. They reflect on their college experiences, the influence of various music genres, and their early careers in music. The discussion highlights the nostalgia for the past and the difficulties of navigating the current music landscape. In this conversation, Andy shares his journey from college to a successful career in commercials and jingles, detailing his experiences in Boston and his eventual move to Los Angeles. He discusses the importance of being part of a creative community, the unique vibe of Las Vegas, and the influence of iconic figures like Tom Jones and Penn and Teller on his career. The conversation highlights the lessons learned from legends in the industry and the significance of professionalism in show business. Mentioned in the episode: Bill and Bobby: The Hollywood Years Check out Andy's photography website: Andy Lerner Photo or purchase a photo Check out Andy the VO coach

Welcome to The Stereo Image! Host Mike Jones talks with creative and interesting people about how music fits into their lives. As the music director for Penn & Teller for over 20 years, Mike has met and discussed music with dozens of interesting characters over the years. Even though he's dedicated his life to music, he realized that there is much to discover from discussing how music shapes and influences people. Our first episode is with the owner of Mike's record label, Tom Burns. Tom lives near Denver, Colorado and makes his living not just from jazz records but also from comic book collecting. In this conversation, Mike Jones interviews Tom Burns, the owner of Capri Records, discussing his journey through music, from early influences to starting a jazz label. Tom shares insights on the jazz community, the importance of music in life, and his unique perspective on listening habits and the intersection of music and comics. Takeaways Tom's early exposure to music came from his mother's love for swing-era artists. He discovered jazz at 17, which captivated him and changed his musical direction. Tom started collecting records at a young age, focusing on instrumental music. His passion for music led him to start a jazz label, Capri Records. The jazz community has been incredibly supportive of his endeavors. Tom emphasizes the importance of allowing musicians to express their creativity. He believes that music adds significant meaning to people's lives. Tom's love for comics parallels his passion for music, both being forms of art. He enjoys listening to a variety of music, including guilty pleasures. Tom reflects on the impact of music on personal relationships and community. Check out Tom's record label: Capri Records