Win With Music

In this episode of the Win With Music Podcast, we dive into the realities of building a sustainable career in jazz with New York–based clarinetist and saxophonist Ricky Alexander. From performing, navigating the day-to-day hustle of freelancing, Ricky shares honest insights into what it really takes to make a living as a jazz musician today. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of the Win With Music Podcast! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In this Episode 15 of Win With Music Podcast, discover the social media strategies musicians can use right now to grow a real audience, boost engagement, and turn followers into loyal fans. Growing your audience as a musician today means learning how to use social media with purpose. In this episode of Win With Music Podcast, we look at practical strategies to help artists, bands, music teachers, and content creators expand their reach across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of the Win With Music Podcast! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

Ever feel stuck wondering whether you should be grinding scales or actually playing songs? 🤔 You’re not alone—and the answer might surprise you. In this episode of the Win With Music Podcast, we tackle one of the most common (and confusing) questions musicians face at every level: What should I really be practicing? Scales build technique, songs build expression—but which one truly moves the needle? Whether you're a beginner trying to build a solid foundation or an experienced player feeling stuck, this episode will help you practice smarter—not just harder. 🎶 Stop guessing and start improving with intention. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of the Win With Music Podcast! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

Ever wondered if learning to play the piano is worth it? In this episode of the Win With Music Podcast, we dive into one of the most common questions aspiring musicians ask: Should I learn to play the piano? 🎹 We explore the benefits of piano as a foundational instrument, how it can improve your overall musicianship, and whether it’s the right fit for your personal goals—whether you're a singer, producer, or complete beginner. Plus, we break down the myths, challenges, and practical tips to help you decide if now is the right time to start your piano journey. If you’ve been on the fence about learning piano, this episode will give you the clarity and motivation you need to take the next step. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who’s thinking about learning music! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In this episode of Win With Music, we break down the art of taking solos—how to build confidence, craft memorable phrases, and truly express yourself when it’s your turn to shine. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, you’ll learn practical tips to make your solos more musical, engaging, and impactful. 👍 If you found this helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other musicians! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

Stage fright is something almost every musician experiences at some point. Whether you're performing for the first time or stepping onto a big stage, those nerves can feel overwhelming. In this video, you'll hear from some of the world's top musicians about practical ways you can manage stage fright, stay focused, and deliver their best performance. If you’re a singer, instrumentalist, or performer of any kind, this video will help you feel more confident the next time you step on stage. 👍 If you found this helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other musicians! For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 10 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question of Embracing Artificial Intelligence as a Musician. We get to hear examples of AI creating a jazz piano trio backing track to support a saxophone and guitar front line for Duke Ellington's famous jazz standard, C Jam Blues. The episode ends with an AI created song that combines AI created video animation with a classic blues rendition of an original song called 'Rooster Sings The Blues'. On this track Brian Hayes plays tenor saxophone in support of the AI vocals and band arrangement.For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 9 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question of How to Prepare Music to a Professional Performance Level. We get to hear from Michael Fix, one of the world's top solo acoustic guitar performers. Michael was the special guest on Episode 23 of The Music Mind Podcast which is available for free on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. The episode ends with an inspiring original acoustic blues vocal song called Don't Waste My Time. On this track Brian Hayes plays slide dobro in support of the fantastic vocals. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 8 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question of How to Support a Vocalist as an Instrumentalist. We get to hear from Travis Toy a professional Nashville based Pedal Steel Guitarist who performs with Luke Bryan, a major country superstar who ahas sold over 75 million records. We also get to hear from Sydney based session guitarist Clive Lendich. Clive has toured the world with major acts such as the Manhattan Transfer and was relocated to Los Angeles at the request of Neil Sedaka for a period, so that Clive could be his full time guitarist. The episode ends with an inspiring original song called Are You Sure? On this track Brian Hayes plays tenor saxophone in support of the fantastic vocals. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3zv6GtBFno&list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 7 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question of How to Stay Motivated in Music. We get to hear from Ross McDonald, an 85 year old drummer who is playing his instrument at the highest level despite losing his motivation to play music for more than 40 years. The episode ends with an inspiring version of Bob Dylan's classic Knockin' on Heaven's Door featuring Ross McDonald on drums with Brian Hayes on guitar and vocals. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 6 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question of dealing with a disability as a musician. My guest for this episode is Kendra Erika, a Number One Billboard Dance Music charting artist who overcame being born tone deaf, which meant she sang atonally and was unable to find and hold correct pitch with her voice. Through professional help and training, Kendra is now recording with a major musical director who has worked as MD for Earth Wind and Fire and Whitney Houston. She provides valuable advice in this conversation which I am sure will help inspire anyone going through challenges as a musician. To learn more about Kendra and the fantastic life she is living in music go to https://www.KendraErika.com. For further information on The Music Mind Podcast or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To view the full suite of the Win With Music Podcast refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAUHTSzXXhWi_ufru8XqtiYv To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 5 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important question that all musicians need to be able to answer for themselves ie. what is music? We get to hear from Mike Hayes, a 55 year career veteran of the Australian music industry, along with the thoughts of iconic America cellist, Yo Yo Mah, and jazz legends Louis Armstrong and Charlie Parker on the fundamental question of What is Music? The episode ends with an uplifting original gospel vocal song titled 'Rise Through Hard Times' featuring Brian Hayes on soprano saxophone. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 4 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the important issue of not losing your love of music just to make money. We get to hear from Brett Garsed, one of Australia's most successful electric guitarists and long term member of the John Farnham Band. We also hear from Steve Dawson, a Nashville based award winning career musician and studio owner. Finally we hear from Rex Goh, one of Australia's premier recording and touring musicians who has worked with the likes of Air Supply and Savage Garden as well as playing on million selling recordings. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44 To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of the Win With Music Podcast series refer https://rss.com/podcasts/win-at-music/?_gl=1%2a98mwlz%2a_gcl_au%2aMjk2OTAzMjcxLjE3Njg0Mjg2NTI.

In Episode 3 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore perhaps the simplest and best career ever advice provided to creative musicians and singers of all levels. We get to hear from Brett Garsed, one of Australia's most successful electric guitarists and long term member of the John Farnham Band. We also hear from Karin Schaupp, a virtuoso classical guitarist who shares advice the great Tommy Emmanuel gave her when she was a young performer just starting out with her career. Finally we hear from John Snell, trumpet player and co-owner of Bob Reeves Brass in Los Angeles, an iconic custom mouthpiece shop for professional brass players since the 1960s. For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44

In Episode 2 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the common question of how much practice do I need to do to get good at my instrument. To address that question a preliminary discussion needs to occur to define what you consider to be 'getting good' on your instrument. Compared to who and what? We get to hear two late, great legends of the jazz alto saxophone discuss this question from a 1954 radio interview that Paul Desmond, of Take 5 fame with Dave Brubeck, conducted with Charlie Parker, the father of Be Bop jazz and an acclaimed master of improvisation. To learn more about Paul Desmond, refer https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Desmond To learn more about Charlie Parker, refer https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlie_Parker For further information on the Win With Music Podcast, or the Music Mind Podcast, or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44

In Episode 1 of the Win With Music Podcast we explore the very difficult question of providing advice to budding young musicians about the prospects of making a successful career within the music business.James Hill, and an internationally acclaimed ukulele virtuoso, provides excellent advice to that question from an interview I conducted with James for Episode 29 of The Music Mind Podcast. That advice is included in this podcast episode. To learn more about James Hill and the fantastic life he lives in music go to https://www.jameshillmusic.com. For further information on The Music Mind Podcast or to connect with Brian Hayes go to https://www.BrianHayes.biz. To listen to AUDIO ONLY versions of The Music Mind Podcast series refer https://www.buzzsprout.com/1824699/ To view the full suite of The Music Mind video podcasts refer https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKtMMbk9TNAWHYmFHlCYbG1t7stFnGp44