Music on Mushrooms

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I chat with classical guitarist and meditation teacher Manuel Bon (@thecenteredmusician) about how mindfulness can transform the way musicians show up to their practice, performance, and lives.Manuel shared how mindfulness practices like grounding, meditation, and somatic awareness can help us move through performance anxiety, creative blocks, and the pressure to be perfect. We also talked about the role of the music educator in holding space for students’ emotional experiences, and how we can begin to shift the culture of classical music toward one that supports mental well-being and authentic expression.Whether you’re navigating stage anxiety or just craving more presence in your artistry, this conversation is full of grounded wisdom and gentle reminders to come back to yourself.✨ Learn more about Manuel and his offerings at thecenteredmusician.com✨ Find me at marykray.com or on Insta @marykray.studios to stay inspired on your creative journey!

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I explore the urgent need for compassion in music education. Speaking from personal experience and my trauma-informed training, I dive into what it means to be a safe, inclusive, and supportive educator and why it matters for students' artistic and personal growth. You'll hear about common but harmful dynamics like perfectionism, elitism, fatphobia, and unchecked egos, and learn how curiosity, nervous system regulation, and humility can help shift the culture. Whether you're a teacher or student, this episode is an invitation to embody the change our music spaces so deeply need.Follow the podcast on Instagram @musiconmushrooms to stay inspired & connected or visit marykray.com to collaborate! Let’s keep building a creative world where we all feel safe to be seen.

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I’m diving into something that so many of us struggle with: being seen. Whether it’s sharing your art, speaking your truth, or just showing up authentically, visibility can feel really scary. But it can also be one of the most powerful things we do for our growth, our goals, and our healing!This solo episode is part pep talk, part reflection, and a reminder that you don’t have to be fearless to move forward, you just have to be willing.We’ll explore:- Why visibility feels so scary and why that fear is totally valid- How to shift your mindset from fear-based action to heart-centered aligned action.- The power of starting small and building confidence through intentional steps- Why your goals become magnetic when you lead with love, not dreadThis one’s for anyone who’s ready to stop hiding and start stepping into their purpose.Follow the podcast on Instagram @musiconmushrooms to stay inspired and connected or visit marykray.com to collaborate! Let’s keep building a creative world where we all feel safe to be seen.

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I had the honor of sitting down with award-winning soprano and Certified Reiki Master, Nina Evelyn, to explore the intersection of performance, healing, and social change. Nina is a powerhouse of artistry and advocacy whose mission is to diversify the classical music canon by uplifting the works of Black composers. Together, we unpacked what it means to be a true changemaker in the classical music world and how to lead from a place of authenticity, courage, and heart.You’ll hear Nina’s reflections on:How the five Reiki principles support sustainable artistryWhat impactful inclusivity really looks like in programming and performanceThe emotional and artistic breakthroughs that happen in group healing workshops for musiciansWhy defining your artistic mission can be a compass for being aligned and fulfilled as a creative.This conversation is an invitation to think deeper about the energy we bring to our work, the courage it takes to be a change-maker, and the healing potential of authentic creative expression.Follow Nina on Instagram @ninaevelynsoprano or visit ninaevelyn.com to explore her work.To stay connected and inspired, follow me on Instagram @marykray.studios or visit marykray.com. Let’s continue building a more intentional and inclusive creative world together!

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I interview the multifaceted creative and Boston-based photographer Taylor Rossi. With a background in classical music, marketing, and now a thriving photography business rooted in authenticity, Taylor embodies what it means to live an aligned creative life.We dive deep into the beauty and challenge of being a multi-passionate artist, how to trust the seasons of your creative calling, and why it’s okay to not stick to just one lane. Taylor shares how her experiences in music and marketing inform her work in photography today, from building a business rooted in community, to creating safe and empowering spaces for her clients.This conversation is packed with wisdom for any creative soul who’s ever felt torn between paths or longed to feel more aligned in both art and life.This is for the artists, freelancers, and soul-led creatives who are navigating nonlinear paths and seeking permission to evolve.You can follow Taylor on Instagram @taylorrossiphotography or visit taylorrossiphotography.com to explore her work.Wanna stay inspired on your journey, Creative Soul? I want to hold space for your growth and your magic. Connect with me on Instagram @marykray.studios or at marykray.com — let’s keep co-creating a more compassionate world together.

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I interview the multi-passionate creative, Hannah McEachern. She is a Boston-based producer, director, astrologically-informed life coach, & intuitive healer, and in this conversation we dive deep into what it means to hold space for our big visions and follow through with aligned action.From producing community events, directing new works, to coaching others in living out their purpose, Hannah shares wisdom on balancing creative ambition with inner harmony. We talk boundaries, authenticity, community-building, and how her spiritual practices inform her unique approach to life and leadership.This episode is a must-listen for creatives looking to fuse their artistic practice with spiritual purpose and make meaningful impact in their communities.You can connect with Hannah on Instagram @hanmcea and on her website. Wanna get involved with QTCBoston? Check out this link to learn more.Wanna stay inspired on your journey, Creative Soul? That’s what I’m here for! I want to hold space for you and your big visions. Connect with me on Instagram @marykray.studios or at marykray.com — and let’s make magic together.

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I interview award-winning soprano, composer, librettist, and producer Stephanie Pfundt. We discussed Stephanie’s journey from a musical upbringing in Southeast Alaska to winning prestigious competitions and producing classical works. Covering essential skills for producing concerts, such as community engagement and strategic planning, this conversation emphasizes compassionate leadership and innovative approaches to modernizing the classical music industry. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring musicians and producers interested in creating their own unique paths and impacting the world of classical music.You can connect with Stephanie on her website and follow her inspiring journey on her Instagram and Facebook.Wanna stay inspired on your journey, Creative Soul? That's what I'm here for. I want to hold space for you and your big visions. Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ or at ⁠marykray.com⁠ and let's make magic together!

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, we’re diving into the magic of creativity and what it means to truly trust your artistic spark. Host Mary Kray gets real about following through on big ideas, tapping into your intuition, and owning your worth as an artist. There’s also a spicy little chat about how music is deeply connected to our emotions (and maybe even a little erotic). If you’ve been feeling stuck, doubting yourself, or just need a creative pick-me-up, this episode is for you. Let’s get inspired and remember—your creativity is pure magic. For more content to keep you inspired your creative journey, follow @musiconmushrooms on Instagram and follow the host @marykray.studios to connect with the Mindfulness Queen for Creative Professionals! Are you are artist or musician looking for a community of heart-centered creatives to grow with? Or maybe you’re struggling with self-doubt and you’ve forgotten your power as a creative? If so, you are invited to Soul Recharge—our monthly group healing event designed to help creative professionals stay spiritual grounded on their journey. Click here to learn more.

In this episode of Music on Mushrooms, I chat with River Rhythm, a Las Vegas-based percussionist, DJ, and producer. We dive into his journey through music, the power of collaboration, and the origins of our neo-soul band, Trust in the Sun. From navigating the Vegas music scene to blending diverse styles, River shares insights and stories that’ll inspire musicians and fans alike. Are you a musician in Las Vegas and want a community to jam with? Check out Playful Pastime! Connect with River on Instagram or his website and follow his journey as an artist. Wanna stay inspired on your journey, Creative Soul? That's what I'm here for. I want to hold space for you and your big visions. Connect with me on ⁠Instagram⁠ or at ⁠marykray.com⁠ and let's make magic together!

I sat down with soprano and tarot reader Vee Visnov (they/them) to talk about their journey in opera, from discovering their passion to how they stay grounded in the industry. Vee shares invaluable advice for young singers—how to find opportunities, stay motivated, and build resilience in a tough industry. We also explore how spiritual practices like tarot and offer tips for new readers to build confidence and develop their unique style. Whether you're an aspiring singer or a creative soul, this episode is packed with inspiration! Connect with Vee on Instagram @vee.blends and @veevisnov Wanna stay inspired on your journey, Creative Soul? That's what I'm here for. I want to hold space for you and your big visions. Connect with me on Instagram or at marykray.com and let's make magic together!

In this captivating episode of Music on Mushrooms, I sit down with Abraham Cruz, an operatic bass-baritone and vocal coach based in San Antonio, TX. Abraham shares his unique path in the world of opera, offering a glimpse into the importance of following your own path in an industry that pushes a “one path” narrative. We acknowledge that building a fulfilling career in the arts looks different on everyone. Abraham opens up about his journey towards financial stability as an artist, discussing the importance of diversifying income streams. He offers a candid look at the pros and cons of young artist programs, providing invaluable advice on what to look for when auditioning for these opportunities. Our conversation delves into the necessity of staying authentic and spiritually grounded in an industry that often promotes a scarcity mindset. Abraham shares his insights on the dual nature of the ego in the performance industry, highlighting how it can both drive and hinder an artist's progress. Join us for an honest and inspiring discussion that will resonate with musicians and performers at all stages of their careers. You can find Abraham on Instagram @abraham.isai.cruz Follow @marykray.studios on Instagram for more uplifting content for creative souls.

In this enriching episode of Music on Mushrooms, we dive into the vibrant world of genre fluidity with the extraordinary Juan Suarez, a Boston-based professional singer and voice teacher with a master's in vocal performance and pedagogy. Join us as we explore the transformative power of vocalists embracing multiple genres and it can enhance overall vocal technique and musicality. Juan shares his invaluable insights on breaking free from the cycle of people-pleasing as a performer to honor one's body and promote a healthy work-life balance. Together, we offer creatives heartfelt advice on trusting their intuition in the music industry, emphasizing that staying true to oneself is the key to unlocking self-compassion. We also discuss the importance of fostering a compassionate, non-judgmental environment in voice lessons to support our students' growth. Both Juan and I are committed to ending cycles of trauma in the classical music world, aiming to bring healing and positivity to our artistic communities. Follow Juan's inspiring journey as a professional singer and voice teacher on Instagram @juan.s.suarez Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, compassion, and a celebration of the beauty in genre fluidity! Follow @marykray.studios for podcast updates and more uplifting content for creatives. I can't wait to connect with you!

Perfectionism is the enemy of creative freedom. So what's the enemy of perfectionism? Radical self forgiveness. In this episode, I talk about what it means to practice forgiveness and the immense impact it can have on your creative artform. From losing opportunities during covid, discovering my neurodivergence, and finding solace in spirituality, join me as I take you through my journey of self forgiveness and creative freedom. Follow @musiconmushrooms on Instagram for more wellness content for creatives! If you are looking for a compassionate voice teacher to meet you where you're at, book a free consultation with me here to see if we're a good fit! calendly.com/marykraystudios

Step into the world of vocal pedagogy with a fresh perspective! Join us in this eye-opening episode as we dive deep into the fascinating history of how the operatic Fach system has unwittingly perpetuated a rigid gender binary. Lucas Coura, a professional singer and passionate voice teacher, uncovers how the gender binary has woven itself into the fabric of vocal training and still holds sway over modern singers, placing them in confining boxes.  Lucas shares his teaching philosophy that celebrates the diversity of voices and rejects the notion of "good" or "bad" sounds. It's a discussion that will challenge your preconceptions and empower you to embrace the limitless potential of your voice. Prepare to be inspired by Lucas's dedication to dismantling internal obstacles for singers and embracing a new era of vocal expression. Follow his journey on Instagram @dudesingslikealady, connect with him on his Facebook page: Singing Smart: Finding Musical Freedom and Joy Without "Overthinking" or through his website www.lucasludwigcoura.com Follow Music on Mushrooms on Instagram for more wellness tips for creatives. We keep it real!

In honor of spooky season, we are discussing the death and rebirth of classical music. The classical music world innovates at a snail's pace, and so many young musicians are tired of it (including myself). In this episode, I dive into the reasons why I think the classical music world refuses to move forward and innovate to meet modern audiences where they're at. From the deification of composers to problematic traditions, join me as I face these issues head on and I offer possible solutions to this issue. We keep it real here at Music on Mushrooms Are you a singer looking for a compassionate, empathetic teacher to meet you where you're at? Book a free consultation with me here to see if we're a good fit! calendly.com/marykraystudios

Music hasn't always been used as a source of entertainment. Research shows us that our ancient ancestors used music for sex, magic, and violence. Join me as I unpack the first 3 chapters of "Music: A Subversive History" by Ted Gioia, in which I discuss music as a source of power, the research and theories behind the origins of music, and the elitism and misinformation of modern music academia. There is so much more to Music History than what conservatories have fed to classical musicians like me. This book opened my eyes in a lot of ways and I think it is a great step in the right direction to unlearn the harmful conditioning that the Western Classical Music Tradition so desperately holds on to. Follow @musiconmushrooms for more wellness content for creatives.

Shadow work is uncovering parts of your subconscious that you repress or hide from. Learning to integrate your shadows as a performer is essential to building confidence in your artistry. Are you interested in learning more about bringing your true self to your work? Join opera singers Nina Evelyn and Maria Dominique Lopez we dive into skills you can use as a performer to learn more about your inner world and how it relates to your artform. Nina is currently studying reiki under Maria's Ascension 101 program, and we dive into how has positively impacted her performance career. Check out Maria's Ascension 101 and The Phoenix Rising programs at ascendingarts.exchange and learn more about her life practice as an opera singer, Reiki Master and life coach! You can find Nina Evelyn on Instagram @ninaevelynsoprano where she shares her journey as a reiki healer in training and professional opera singer. Follow Music on Mushrooms for more wellness content for creatives <3

The goal of becoming an independent artist can seem daunting. I asked Brittany McKay to help me unpack this topic through the context of her personal journey to success in the music industry. In this episode we discuss the first steps to becoming an indie artist, red & green flags for potential collaborators, and how to balance humility and confidence in the spotlight. Brittany also offers her insights on the intersection between artistry and spirituality. B. Rose is a musician based in Las Vegas, NV. Follow her journey on Instagram @brosemusiq and check out her music here! Follow @musiconmushrooms for more wellness content for creatives

There is no doubt that the performance industry is traumatizing. It can be a hard topic to face. I invited Maria Dominique Lopez to unpack this challenging topic as compassionately as possible. On this podcast we discuss Maria’s story as an opera singer and Reiki Master, nervous system regulation tools for performers, and rediscovering your resilience as a creative. You can find Maria on Instagram @ascendingarts and check out her reiki and coaching life-practice on her website ascendingarts.exchange Follow @musiconmushrooms for more wellness content for creatives

Creating a safe space for Queer artists to fully express their authentic truth is so valuable. In this episode, I will be interviewing Hannah McEachern about a new business she co-founded called Queer Theater Collective Boston. We have a candid conversation about the importance of queer visibility in artistic spaces, and how important it is to normalize our existence. Being a positive voice for change is what QTCBoston is all about! If you're a queer actor or playwright in the Boston area, or are interested in tracking their journey, check them out on Instagram @qtcboston or follow this link to add your name to their artist database and mailing list. Follow for more wellness content for creatives on Instagram @musiconmushooms

Annie Calvaneso is an opera singer, business coach, and fitness coach who helps her clients reach their highest potential. Join us in this episode as we discuss practical ways artists can use their intuition and manifestation to create their dream life, how to create an authentic brand with aligned business practices, and creating boundaries as an artist to maintain a balanced life. You can find Annie on Instagram and Facebook @anniecalvaneso to follow her inspiring journey and check out her business and coaching services! follow for more wellness content for creatives @musiconmushrooms

This episode of Music on Mushrooms is the one-stop-shop for all musicians and artists to grow their presence in their communities and online. Nick and I discuss all things marketing for the modern artist, including: creating a personal brand, community building, networking, social media promotion, and all with a dash of my usual unhinged shenanigans. I hope you enjoy this resource as it was such a joy to record with professional singer, marketing specialist and my good friend, @nick_hamlyn_ follow for more wellness content for the modern artist @musiconmushrooms

Join singer, Matti Avery and I as we dive into topics like music school burnout, balancing performing and a work life, and just general goofs and gaffs! Matti is a skilled vocalist across multiple genres; jazz, classical, and musical theater, and in this podcast we discuss how she got there. You can find @mattijo_ performing with @arcadebops , a video game-inspired fusion jazz group in Las Vegas, NV. a safe space for creatives @musiconmushrooms

Join Emiland Kray and I as we discuss our recent video game collaboration, You can only turn left, a narrative piece with thought-provoking art and storytelling paired with experimental minimalist music. We also unpack the realities of making a living as a visual artist and maintaining balance in your artistic practices. Emiland Kray is a visual artist based in Tucson, AZ who specializes in watercolor and the printing press. https://www.instagram.com/troctopus/ You can play You can only turn left now at https://troctopus.itch.io/you-can-only-turn-left a safe space for creatives https://instagram.com/musiconmushrooms

We're back for Season 2! Join music educator, Stevie Baker and I as we dive into innovation in music curriculum, wellness tips for teachers, and hilarious choral experiences from our undergrad days. Get ready for an inside look at how the pandemic shaped our philosophy as artists, as well as our favorite choral pieces performed with the Shrine of the Ages Choir at Northern Arizona University. Follow for more wellness tips for artists and creative life hacks https://www.instagram.com/musiconmushrooms/

Perfectionism, comparison, self-judgment, and fear are all things that can get in the way of allowing ourselves the permission to be creative. For classical musicians especially, it can be tough to break through our conditioning to push through and be unapologetically ourselves. In this podcast, I discuss creative blocks and how to break through them. We are all creators, we just have to give ourselves the grace to be imperfect and just say f*ck it! Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through an inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Connect with the host on Instagram @classicalmusiconmushrooms

Should music and art be a competition of superiority? Music competitions, while there are many pros, come along with performance anxiety, financial risk, and comparison. In this podcast, I discuss the intersection between the culture of seeking superiority, and how it breeds perfectionism, gossip, and self-doubt. Choosing kindness for yourself and others is at the forefront of the solution for a more positive space in the sphere of classical music competitions. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through an inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Connect with the host on Instagram @musiconmushrooms

Taking care of our voices as singers is easy on paper, but more complicated in practice. In this episode Mary discusses work/life balance, joyful movement, substance use, menstruation, and mindset in conjunction with vocal health. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through a inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: How menstruation affects opera singers by Justin Chandler (CBC) Resources for quitting: thetruth.com; quitassist.com Connect with the host on Instagram @musiconmushrooms

A psychic nun? Huh? Hildegard of Bingen was a 12th century abbess, mystic, and composer whose works continue to intrigue its modern consumers. In today’s episode, Mary discusses the life and accomplishments of Hildegard as well as some of her intriguing writings and cult-like behavior. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through a inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: Hildegard von Bingen’s Mystical Visions: Translated from Scivias by Bruce Hozeski/The Music of Hildegard von Bingen: A Categorical Overview of her Complete Oeuvre by Mathew Hoch/The Flesh of the Voice: Embodiment and the Homoerotics of Devotion in the Music of Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) by Bruce Wood Holsinger Connect with the host on Instagram & YouTube @classicalmusiconmushrooms

The power of creation is within all of us! What if I told you that you could achieve your wildest dreams through the power of your mindset? In todays episode Mary provides some witchy life hacks and discusses how to program your mind in a way that serves you highest potential. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through a inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: “The Ultimate Guide to Imposter Syndrome for Musicians” by Musical U. Connect with the host on Instagram & YouTube @classicalmusiconmushrooms

From abusive gatekeepers to misogynistic critics; today we discuss how and why fatphobia is so pervasive in opera culture. Weight stigma exists in all media, so it is no surprise that the same is true for the opera world. Mary talks about her own experiences with fatphobia and offers solutions to make opera a more welcoming space of all shapes and sizes. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through a inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: Male Critics on Female Bodies: Tara Erraught, Liza Minnelli, and Intelligent Reviewing by Anne Midgette; Washington Post Fat-shaming. Bullying. Is Anyone Protecting Our Young Singers? By Zach Finkelstein; The Middle Class Artist Connect with the host on Instagram @classicalmusiconmushrooms

From Liszt's fan girls, Debussy's crazy love life, to Chopin's zodiac sign; today we discuss all the facts we need to know to decide who we would f*ck, marry and kill! In this podcast, Mary responds to this hard-hitting, very serious question by using historical context, humor and logic. Classical Music on Mushrooms looks at various topics through a inclusive, sex-positive, and spiritual lens with the intention of making the classical music world a better place. Good Reads: Secret Lives of Great Composers by Elizabeth Lunday Connect with the host on Instagram & YouTube @classicalmusiconmushrooms