Soundboard features conversations on artistry and craftsmanship between Ben Finane, Editor in Chief at Steinway & Sons, and distinguished pianists, musicians, artists, and creatives. Soundboard seeks out inspiration, hones in on the creative process, parses influences, and attempts to diagnose artis…
The Soundboard podcast is an absolute gem for music enthusiasts and piano lovers alike. As a musician and piano technician, I was instantly captivated by the seamless fusion of music talk and piano talk that this podcast offers. It serves as a platform where these two passions intertwine in such a fabulous way, making it an incredibly enjoyable and informative listen. If you're looking for a podcast that delves deep into the world of music, while also exploring various aspects of pianos and their significance, then The Soundboard is an absolute must-listen.
One of the best aspects of The Soundboard podcast is its diverse roster of guests. It's quite refreshing to see the inclusion of not only renowned musicians like Billy Joel and Regina Spektor but also unexpected guests from different creative disciplines. The host does a commendable job in selecting guests who bring unique perspectives on their craft, providing listeners with fresh insights into the creative process across various fields. This variety keeps the podcast interesting and ensures that each episode feels distinct and captivating.
Moreover, what sets this podcast apart is the host's ability to draw out fascinating narratives from each guest. The conversations are not just surface-level interviews; they delve deep into personal stories and experiences, offering a glimpse into the thought processes behind great works of art. Through thoughtful questions and genuine curiosity, the host manages to create an intimate atmosphere where guests feel comfortable sharing their artistic journeys. This makes for an engaging listening experience that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for music and creativity.
However, it's important to note that while The Soundboard excels in many areas, there are some aspects that could be improved. One minor drawback is that episodes can sometimes feel longer than necessary. While it's wonderful to have in-depth discussions, there may be moments where editing or condensing certain segments could help maintain a more concise flow. Additionally, expanding on specific technical aspects related to pianos might appeal more to enthusiasts like myself, further enhancing the podcast's appeal.
In conclusion, The Soundboard podcast is a true treasure for music lovers and piano enthusiasts. Its ability to seamlessly merge music talk and piano talk creates a unique listening experience that is both educational and entertaining. With its diverse range of guests and insightful conversations, it offers fresh perspectives on the creative process from individuals across various art forms. Though there may be some room for improvement in terms of episode length and technical discussions, overall, this podcast is an absolute must-listen for anyone seeking an enriching exploration of music and pianos.
Jazz pianist and Steinway Artist Jason Moran, live from Big Ears Festival, talks hip hop, the next generation, the algorithm, Monk & Duke, visual art, and creative approach.
Grandmasters Aman Hambleton and Eric Hansen, the principal hosts of Chessbrah, talk techno and chess and what makes Magnus Carlsen the GOAT.
Steinway Artist Ádám György will play his own transcription of the Union of European Football Associations Champions League Anthem at the UEFA Final Saturday June 10 in Istanbul. György joins Soundboard to discuss football and Franz Liszt.
Steinway Artist Alexander Krichel joins Soundboard to celebrate Sergei Rachmaninoff's 150th birthday.
Anthony McGill takes us behind the scenes in his role as Principal Clarinet of the New York Philharmonic and speaks to the wonders of chamber music.
Steinway Artist Gerardo Teissonnière discusses the wonder of Beethoven's Last Sonatas.
Steinway Artist Andrew Rangell discusses the keyboard music of Johann Sebastian Bach. His latest — of many — Bach releases is The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II on the Steinway & Sons label.
Steinway Artist Dr. Karen Walwyn speaks to the legacy and vibrancy of African American composer Florence Price.
Steinway Artist Rufus Wainwright takes us behind his live album with Amsterdam Sinfonietta.
Steinway Artist Jean-Yves Thibaudet discusses his latest album, CARTE BLANCHE, his ultimate goal of making the piano sing, and the utility of the sostenuto pedal.
Steinway Artist Kristhyan Benitez discusses the rich diaspora of Latin American piano music.
Branford Marsalis joins Soundboard to discuss his Emmy®–nominated score for the History Channel documentary TULSA BURNING: THE 1921 RACE RIOT.
Pianist Tiffany Poon discusses bringing humanism back to classical music via YouTube — and expresses her love for Robert and Clara Schumann.
The pianist Khatia Buniatishvili speaks to the intimacy of performance, finding her own rhythm, and her love for Schubert and Liszt.
Composer Daniel Felsenfeld wonders at the brilliance of Steinway Artist Alfred Brendel.
Steinway Immortal Van Cliburn and legacy of classical music in America
Steinway Artist and Emmy Award–winning composer Kris Bowers takes us inside penning the soundtracks to such projects as GREEN BOOK and BRIDGERTON.
Steinway Artist Mahani Teave hails from Rapa Nui, aka Easter Island. Teave is the first professional concert pianist from Rapa Nui. But after years spent concertizing all over the world, she returned to her island and founded a music school.
Ann Mincieli takes us inside is owner and operator of Jungle City Studios in New York City and longtime recording engineer for Alicia Keys. She takes us behind the scenes into a session in her studio.
Steinway Artist Jeanne Golan takes us inside her latest release on the Steinway & Sons label, ‘It Takes One To Tango.’
Steinway Artist Ray Angry takes us on his journey from classical pianist to polymath producer.
Comic book artist and writer Sandy Jimenez pens illustrated stories about the South Bronx. He joins Soundboard to discuss his craft.
Pulitzer Prize–winning composer and Steinway Artist John Corigliano talks about improvising at the keyboard, his compositional process, and a legacy of teaching.
Young Steinway Artist Amir Siraj is completing a dual degree in astrophysics and piano performance. His research has explored the moon, comets, asteroids, black holes, and, of course, Beethoven.
The violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter speaks on arts advocacy, Beethoven, John Williams, and her process behind learning new music.
The fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi sees fashion as telling stories of women’s lives. He discusses the intersection of music and fashion, couture vs. QVC, his new concert series — and becoming himself.
The Grammy Award–winning composer and conductor discusses how he writes choral music — as well as his influences and technological ventures.
Piano Technician and Audio Engineer Lauren Sclafani discusses her craft.
Singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist-rockstar-designer Lenny Kravitz talks inspiration for his music and for the Kravitz Grand Limited Edition from Steinway & Sons.
New York City–based playwright Kenneth Jones discusses his craft — and the streaming premiere of his 2015 play ALABAMA STORY at Oak Ridge Playhouse.
Writer, novelist and columnist Drew Magary talks about the twenty-first-century shift in the media landscape and the launch of Defector, a new subscription-only sports blog and media company.
The composer Christopher Tin, on the occasion of his latest release — To Shiver The Sky (Decca Gold) — speaks to keeping your music in listeners’ ears.
The pianist Michael Gallant discusses how he creates solo-piano covers of rock classics.
Steinway Artist Ahmad Jamal discusses his influences and approach to music.
Vera Anselmo, founder and artistic director of The Piano School of New York City, discusses music education for the underserved.
Step Afrika! founder and executive director C. Brian Williams holds forth on the tradition of stepping, a dance form that uses the body as an instrument.
Composer and Steinway Artist Chad Lawson unpacks his philosophy behind his minimalist aesthetic.
Steinway Artist and NEA Jazz Master Ramsey Lewis reveals how he has benefited from remaining open to what could be.
Steinway Artist Anny Hwang talks about making classical music more flexible and getting her Gershwin to groove.
Pianist, composer, arranger, and producer Peter Bence discusses his approach to pop covers and composition — and how he built a YouTube following of millions.
Steinway Artist Connie Han talks jazz influences and the importance of a jazz language we can all comprehend.
Steinway Artist Matt Rollings discusses lessons learned from the many legends he has worked with over the course of his illustrious career as a pianist, composer, arranger and producer.
Steinway Artist Pascal Rogé reveals why there is always more to say about Claude Debussy.
Steinway Artist Vijay Iyer talks influence, responsibility, jazz, hip-hop, and the importance of right now.
Steinway Artist Ric'key Pageot discusses performing with Madonna — and introduces us to speakeasy-soul / prohibition-funk.
Stephen Brown is an avid crafter and crafty fellow who created Glitterville, which offers handcrafted ornaments for every occasion.
Steinway Artists The 5 Browns are five sibling pianists who are also five Juilliard–trained pianists. They discuss playing together on their latest album, Christmas with The 5 Browns, available on the Steinway & Sons label.
Grammy Award–winning composer Mason Bates speaks to the wedding of classical music and electronica.
Steinway Artist Harry Connick, Jr. takes us inside his new album — True Love: A Celebration of Cole Porter — on which he plays piano, sings, orchestrates, arranges and conducts.
Jazz trumpeter and composer Ralph Alessi talks about the practice of improvisation and the art of jazz.
Steinway Artist Robert Glasper launched the Soundboard podcast. In honor of the multi–Grammy winning jazz pianist's October takeover at Blue Note New York, we offer a prequel interview with Glasper, live from the Steinway Factory in New York City.
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
