The Muse in Music - Dirk Meyer on How Conductors Balance Risk and Responsibility

By, Dan Perttu

Please join me as I talk with Dirk Meyer, Music Director of the Augusta Symphony, Duluth Superior Symphony, and Lyric Opera of the North, as he discusses his passion for conducting, emphasizing the continuous learning and the unique connection with musicians and audiences. He particularly admires late Romantic and Early Modern music, citing composers like Mahler and Strauss. Dirk also appreciates contemporary composers Thomas Adès and Arvo Pärt. He highlights the importance of tailoring programming to different audiences, balancing new music with audience preferences, and building trust through effective communication and preparation. He stresses the need for conductors to be knowledgeable and adaptable to diverse community tastes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KAkwqxaDzk

Photo by Hillary Odom

The Muse in Music - Robert Moody on How Orchestras Can Evolve Authentically

By, Dan Perttu

Please join me as I talk with Robert Moody, Music Director of the Memphis Symphony, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, and Arizona MusicFest, as he discusses his passion for conducting, inspired by a childhood experience with the Chicago Symphony. He emphasizes the importance of diversity in music, citing influences from Mahler to contemporary composers such as Mason Bates. Moody highlights the need for orchestras to balance tradition with innovation, advocating for authenticity and cross-cultural influences. He stresses the communal experience of live music and the importance of programming that engages both audiences and musicians. Check it out below!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPCTQriAwjg

Photo by Jamie Harmon

The Muse in Music - Concertmaster William Shaub on Artistic Leadership, Collaboration, and New Music

By, Dan Perttu

In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with violinist William Shaub, concertmaster of the Knoxville Symphony and guest concertmaster of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (UK), Arctic Philharmonic (Norway), and the New Zealand Symphony, about artistic inspiration, leadership from the concertmaster’s chair, and what it means to nurture growth within an orchestra. We dive deeply into collaboration with living composers, discussing bravery, humility, rehearsal psychology, and the shared responsibility performers have to elevate new music. Please join us for a thoughtful, candid conversation about artistry, trust, and why the human side of music-making matters as much as the notes on the page.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZyn4PbsU9c