The Muse in Music - Brian Dollinger on Storytelling, Collaboration, and New Music

By, Dan Perttu

In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with conductor Brian Dollinger about the joy of helping musicians perform beyond what they thought possible. He discusses his love of musical storytelling, his preference for accessible contemporary music, and the ways conductors can prepare audiences to embrace unfamiliar works. We also explore the practical considerations that help new orchestral music receive more performances, from manageable instrumentation to clear notation. Finally, Brian emphasizes the importance of genuine collaboration between conductors and living composers in bringing a composer’s vision fully to life.

https://youtu.be/Z9taE5Wi33M

The Muse in Music - Anthony LaGruth on Bringing the Promise of the Musical Score to Life

By, Dan Perttu

Anthony LaGruth reflects on how his early life as a trumpeter and aspiring composer led him toward conducting—and toward the collaborative act of turning notation into living music. He discusses enduring inspiration from composers such as Mahler, Shostakovich, and Tchaikovsky, while making a strong case for conductors’ close, practical collaboration with living composers. LaGruth also considers how programming, accessible audience communication, and emotionally communicative new music can invite listeners more deeply into orchestral life. Ultimately, he argues for the irreplaceable power of live performance as a shared communal experience.

https://youtu.be/lXFX4K8FOKs

The Muse in Music - James Blachly on Conducting, Community, and the Power of Musical Experience

By, Dan Perttu

In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with Grammy-winning conductor James Blachly, Music Director of the Johnstown Symphony and Artistic Director of New York City's Experiential Orchestra, about the profound experiences that inspire his work. James shares his philosophy of conducting as an act of service, explores how orchestras can build meaningful relationships with audiences through innovative programming, and discusses his passion for championing living composers. We also delve into the mission of the Experiential Orchestra, whose immersive performances challenge traditional concert conventions and invite audiences into the very heart of the music-making process. Along the way, James offers thoughtful perspectives on collaborations between conductors and composers, cultivating trust with audiences, and creating concert experiences that are welcoming, transformative, and unforgettable.

https://youtu.be/e_A8gHwQ3YY

Photo by, Allison Stock