Podcasts about Fons

On the Feast of Pentecost, May 24th, 2026 Fr. Joshua Fons challenges us to look to Pentecost for the source of the Church's renewal. Pentecost is part of our tradition, in fact, it is the very start of our Church. To ignore Pentecost is to ignore what Christ has given to us: the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit who gives us the courage and strength to live out the Church's mission: making disciples of all nations.

Why is it that you stop practicing on a piece or a technique, and most of it is gone within a year if not a few months? That's been true for me too. However, there are plenty of exceptions - pieces I could ignore for over a year and sit down to play from memory like I'd practiced it yesterday. In this episode, I talk about what the pieces that stick all have in common versus the ones that just disappear, and what you can do to make sure you never again lose any music you've spent time learning that you want to keep. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

The art of being an accompanist is applicable to all sorts of situations, including playing in an ensemble with other musicians without a conductor. I've accompanied hundreds of musicians for at least 35 years, and these are my thoughts on how to do it well. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On Mother's Day, May 10th, 2026, Fr. Joshua speaks to the moms of the parish, inviting them to reflect on the gift of their Vocation. In particular, the ways we are tempted to not see our Vocation as a gift from God, but rather as a burden, a reward, or a waste. From that place, Christ wants to bring renewal. The key to that renewal lies in the words of St. Peter "Beloved, sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts." A fruitful vocation starts with knowing that we are beloved of God, and then response, to put him first in our hearts. 

Even if conducting isn't a major goal, every good musician should know what to do if presented with an opportunity to lead an ensemble in rehearsal or a performance.  This episode will introduce you to the basics of preparing for a rehearsal, how to lead the rehearsal, how to lead a performance, and the basics of baton technique and other hand instructions. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

• Aigua Ebre: la qualitat del transvasament de l'Ebre assoleix nivells “òptims” el 2024 i 2025, amb una reducció del 17% en productes químics a l'ETAP de l'Ampolla. • Indústria Deltebre: Nomen Foods inverteix 1,1 milions d'euros per ampliar la planta i augmentar fins a un 20% la producció, amb suport dels Fons de Transició Nuclear. • Controls Deltebre: la Policia Local intensifica els controls de trànsit del 27 d'abril al 3 de maig, amb revisió de documentació i soroll. • Camarles serveis: obert el termini per a la llicència de la barra del bar en activitats municipals fins al 13 de maig.

This is the third and final episode of sharing my notes on Molly Gebrian's fantastic book, "Learn Faster, Perform Better", a book about how the brain scientifically responds to learning music and how we can approach practice to maximize what the brain does best.  In this episode, we talk about how to get truly ready for performance and how to make sure your memory of all your repertoire is reliable. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

This is the 2nd of 3 episodes where I share my notes on one of the best books I've read recently: Molly Gebrian's "Learn Faster, Perform Better", a book about how the brain scientifically responds to learning music and how we can approach practice to maximize what the brain does best.    In this second episode, we talk about how you can improve your sense of internal rhythm and techniques you can use to get your music up to tempo. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On the Third Sunday of Easter, April 19th 2026, Fr. Joshua breaks open the story of the Road to Emmaus, challenging us to put ourselves in the shoes of those disciples. They were downcast, because they had their own plan for how the Messiah was going to do his thing, and it seems like it failed. But they didn't plan for the Cross. We do the same: we have a plan for our life, a plan for what it means to follow God, but we also forget about the Cross. And what we see as a problem, might actually be the solution. What looks like defeat, might actually be the path to victory. The Lord wants to renew our minds, to see His plan, the big picture, the story of our Salvation in a new way!

Sumari – Delta.cat | Dimarts, 14 d'abril de 2026 El Govern anuncia una nova convocatòria dels Fons de Transició Nuclear, amb ajuts que podrien arribar als 35 milions d'euros per impulsar activitat econòmica i ocupació als municipis beneficiaris com Deltebre, l'Ampolla, Camarles i Sant Jaume d'Enveja. Finalitzen les obres del Passeig del Centre al barri del Conill, amb una actuació de prop de 70.000 euros que millora la seguretat, l'accessibilitat i la mobilitat de l'espai. El Centre Cultural del Delta presenta una agenda d'abril marcada per Sant Jordi, amb exposicions com Les cinc primeres llavors, contes en veu alta, xerrades de salut i una àmplia programació cultural durant tot el mes.

One of the best books I've read recently was Molly Gebrian's "Learn Faster, Perform Better", a book about how the brain scientifically responds to learning music and how we can approach practice to maximize what the brain does best.  This is the first of 3 episodes where I share my notes.  In this first episode, we talk about the basics of music and neurology when it comes to learning, how to schedule your practice effectively, how to fix bad habits, and quite a bit more when it comes to effective practice basics. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

**Due to a technical error, the audio of this homily is poorer than normal.**On the night Jesus gave us the Priesthood (Holy Thursday, April 2, 2026), Fr. Joshua invites us to reflect on the famous phrase from St. John Vianney: "The Priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus." The priesthood reveals the heart of Christ for his Church, and it is his gift to us. Though often misunderstood, Fr. Joshua expounds on how priestly celibacy is an essential part of this vocation: that it mirrors Christ's own heart for his people.  Jesus knew what he was doing when he gave us the Priesthood. He knew that his Church needed Fathers. We need to pray for priests, and for the Lord to raise up more laborers for his vineyard

On Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026), Father Joshua invites us to take St. Paul's words as our personal motto: "If you have been raised with Christ, seek what is above." These words were lived out by one of the founders of the University of Michigan: Father Gabriel Richard. After the city of Detroit was destroyed by a fire, he rallied the rebuilding, penning Detroit's motto: we hope for better things; it will arise from the ashes." These words capture the hope of the Resurrection. A hope that can face even the greatest hardships. A hope that our world needs today.

Consta d'unes 100.000 fotografies d'actes que han tingut lloc a Olot des de la dècada de 1980 i fins a principis dels 2000

Con su autor, Pau Subirós Bardera, acompañado de Cristina De Pedro y Rubén Pallol. La historia del Garrigal sirve para explicar un fenómeno que, si bien fue global, se puede redimensionar a partir de las especificidades particulares de las periferias geográficas. El hecho fronterizo, la Costa Brava, la presencia militar (española y norteamericana), o los debates iniciales del turismo convierten el caso del Garrigal en un fenómeno único y especial. Escrito en formato de crónica, el libro El Garrigal i el carrer de La Jonquera: històries dels baixos Fons de Figueres (1880-2003) coquetea con los formatos del periodismo, la crónica negra o el anecdotario, sin renunciar a una extensa investigación de archivo y a la recopilación de testimonios orales, proporcionando una visión poliédrica a la historia del barrio.

You've heard of composing and improvising, but there are 3 other ways you can choose to create music.  This episode goes over each, and a summary of what you need to do to get better at each one. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Have you ever heard that classical musicians only like classical music, or that composers are free spirits who are guided by the muse, or that they all love to stay up late at night and get up late in the morning?  Stereotypes are fun because each one is true for SOME musicians, but not for all and often not for most.  Sometimes musicians themselves may fit a stereotype and not realize that many other musicians aren't the same.  After you listen to these 10 stereotypes, let me know what you think I missed. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On Palm Sunday, March 29th, 2026, Father Joshua invites us to be shaken out of our routine, just like the people of Jerusalem were shaken by Jesus' entrance. This isn't just another Sunday of another week: this is the holiest week of the year! We must give an answer to the question asked in the Gospel: "who is this?" Who is Jesus? Is he my savior and Lord? Is he the center of my life? Or he is he something else? Allow yourself to be shaken this week, by the death of God on a cross for you.

If you or someone you know is looking ahead to college and thinking about possibly majoring in music, this is a very important episode to check out!  Let's talk about the 4 reasons why you shouldn't along with 4 reasons why you should. You can also hear what to expect going forward if you decide to major in music.  Finally, I give my candid feedback as a music major with 2 degrees how I feel about my past decisions. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Planning everything or having nothing but constraints without creative freedom is stifling and lifeless.  Creative freedom without regimen is chaos.  Great music and great musicians have always had both elements in their life.  This episode offers a few examples as to how you can present both elements in your practice. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On this third Sunday of Lent, Fr. Joshua calls out all the grumblers: those who grumble about the state of the World, the Country, the Church, and the state of their own lives. Instead of grumbling, he invites us to hope. To hope in the Love our Father who has given us access to his heart. To hope like the women at the well who, in spite of her difficult circumstances, hoped for a Messiah. Hope is powerful! Our world desperately needs people who choose to hope rather than to grumble.This week was also the opening of the Diocesan Services Appeal: an annual appeal the funds all of the vital ministries of our Diocese, from pro-life work, to caring for the poor to providing for the education and formation of our Seminarians. If you missed it, check out Bishop Boyea's appeal here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9e0XTfDfq0), and make your contribution online belowhttps://www.dioceseoflansing.org/appeal

Videos, books, and podcasts are all examples of ways to LEARN ABOUT music.  However, none of those will allow you to LEARN music.  Music isn't about what you know in your head.  It's about what you know with your hands or your voice or whatever touches your instrument.  Whether you're a performer or a composer, it's crucial that you understand this and practice your craft accordingly. Referenced YouTube video about learning key signatures: https://youtu.be/58So6A22KJk Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Aquesta setmana, Pere Becque  s'interessa per les eleccions municipals de Catalunya Nord, recordant que és un escrutini clau perquè afecta directament la vida quotidiana i mobilitza força electors, amb un fort component local i personal més que estrictament partidista. Explica que en molts pobles es presenten sobretot batlles ja en exercici, poc qüestionats, i que gairebé no hi ha competència ni noves vocacions per la duresa del càrrec, les responsabilitats creixents, la incertesa financera i l'envelliment de la població, que demana alhora seguretat i activitat econòmica

Today's episode talks about two challenges that musicians face.  The first is how to learn brand new music, not as in "new to me" but NEW...freshly composed just for you, with no precedent and no reference recording.  Secondly, we talk about the process of building a repertoire necessary to do a full-length recital. My guest is Dr. Annie Jeng, an associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, as well as an international performer and educator, and a champion of new music. Learn more about Annie at https://www.anniejeng.com/ Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Have you ever said or thought any of the following statements in your lesson? "I usually play better at home." "I don't know why I get so nervous in here". "I swear I practiced this better than this." This is a very common problem, performance anxiety in your lessons. However, it's not hard to fix. This episode offers 5 simple suggestions that you can apply right away to gradually get more comfortable in your lessons and play in a way that truly resembles how you have been practicing. Related Video: How To Play Confidently In Public (with Michelle Wachter) Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On the first Sunday of Lent, February 22nd, 2026,  Father Joshua points out that while you sometimes feel like your problems are unique, or your life is singularly challenging, you actually aren't that special. This is a good thing, because t means we aren't alone. We share in the brokenness and sinfulness of our first parents, Adam and Eve. And the wounds that affect our heart today go back to that fateful day in the Garden. But, the good news is that we also share in the redemption of Christ. He put himself under that same condemnation, and redeemed us. This Lent, Christ wants to bring about that redemption in you life, in your marriage, and in your family. Let this Lent be a Lent of Restoration and Redemption.

This episode contains hard truth.  Most of you are probably not practicing enough to reach any goals of advanced repertoire, and there's a chance that you're going to be stuck on elementary music for a long time.  In this episode, let's look at what kind of results you get when you average as little as 15 minutes per day a few times per week all the way up to 4 hours per day everyday.  As you listen, take the time to evaluate how much time you really could put into practicing, and make sure your goals are aligning with the time and work you are able to do. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

For anyone who wants to become truly great in any field, Robert Greene's book "Mastery", shows a process that has been used by some of the most successful people in history from art to science to literature to sports and, of course, in music. This episode summarizes the book in a way that musicians can apply partially to become better or wholly to become elite. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Aquest any el dissabte de Carnaval viurà el Ball del Fardo de Barraques a la plaça de Catalunya del Poble Sec. La decisió va venir arran de l'experiència dels organitzadors del darrer any als jardins del Retiro, i no pas perquè la celebració del ball no fos un èxit i es desenvolupés sense incidents, sinó perquè la gestió dels permisos fou esgotadora i deixà a la gent de Barraques amb la convicció de no tornar a passar el mateix tràngol. De les noves ubicacions que es proposaren, finalment fou escollida la plaça de Catalunya, tot i que el muntatge del ball esdevindrà un petit trencaclosques perquè dissabte hi ha mercat i, en conseqüència, hauran de conciliar-se els interessos dels paradistes amb els dels tècnics que han de muntar la infraestructura. Amb Pol Vigó, president de Barraques, hem conversat sobre la prèvia del ball. L'entrada El ball del fardo a la plaça de Catalunya (amb una mica de rum rum de fons per haver deixat el Retiro) ha aparegut primer a Radio Maricel.

This is the final episode of a 5-part series going over all the concepts every musician should know about music theory.  This episode covers the trends that have developed in what we call classical music since 1900 from chords based on intervals other than 3rds, a wider variety of scales, atonal music, minimalism. and more. Previous Episodes in the Series: Music Theory Overview Music Theory I: Basics and Fundamentals Music Theory II: Harmonic Function and Analysis Music Theory III: Harmonic Construction and Larger Structures Inquire about private lessons on music theory by setting up a free first lesson here For more on bi-tonality and a visual introduction to Hanson Analysis: watch this video here. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

We each have assumptions and ideas about what "the good life", a life of happiness looks like. In this homily, given on February 1st, 2026, Fr. Joshua Fons encourages us to consider our sources: are they reliable? What if we are wrong? What if we have been chasing the wrong things? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus starts off with the Beatitudes, the keys to happiness, and he doesn't list off any of the things we might expect. And this, in fact, is good news, because the way he shows us is the way to true happiness! But it starts with our willingness to admit we have been wrong all along.

This is the 4th of a 5-part series going over all the concepts every musician should know about music theory.  This episode covers the guidelines for smooth voice leading when constructing notes in 4-parts. It also talks about the structure of larger forms such as Theme and Variations, Sonata Allegro, and more. Previous Episodes in the Series: Music Theory Overview Music Theory I: Basics and Fundamentals Music Theory II: Harmonic Function and Analysis Inquire about private lessons on music theory by setting up a free first lesson here Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

This is the 3rd of a 5-part series going over all the concepts every musician should know about music theory.  This episode covers the basics of roman numeral analysis, diatonic triads, how to classify non-chord tones, and a way to categorize nearly every time signature. Previous Episodes in the Series: Music Theory Overview Music Theory Basics and Fundamentals Inquire about private lessons on music theory by setting up a free first lesson here Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

This is the 2nd of a 5-part series going over all the concepts every musician should know about music theory.  This episode is for beginners or those who want a true refresher.  It's a lot crammed into just under 40 minutes, but take some notes and check out all the things you should know about theory before you can get into more intermediate and advanced understanding of how music works. FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 12 ONLY: Register for Music Theory Basics online workshop TONIGHT 7pm Eastern! Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On the Baptism of the Lord (January 11th, 2026), Father Joshua invites us to reflect on the moments when we feel unworthy and unqualified for the task before us. These moments can be moments of profound encounter.  Just as Jesus asked John to trust in Him and baptize Him, He invites us to trust in Him, and to respond in faith.

What actually is music theory, and why should you learn it? This episode explores the branches of music theory, and is a prelude to the next 4 episodes where we'll explore what you can study and how to improve level by level. Register for Music Theory Basics online workshop for Monday, January 12 - 7pm Eastern Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

My students often ask: How do I organize my practice in a way to cover everything each week? This is a great question, and an important one to answer.  If you don't organize your practice and just leave everything up to your mood, you're going to be neglecting something important.  In this episode, you can hear about the 7 components of practice (including the 3 core components) and how to plan them into your practice.  Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Every musician knows that daily practice is essential to progress. But what if you're not practicing often enough because you've never developed the habit of practicing daily? This episode will help you develop this most important habit for any musician! Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Showing up regularly and putting in the work is important, but your "reps" aren't enough on their own. Listen to this episode to help you evaluate and improve the quality of your practice. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Igor Stravinsky regularly gets mentioned among the 20th century's greatest composers.  Anatoly Lyadov requires some digging to find much of his music.  The story that links the composers Lyadov and Stravinsky is one of several great examples of opportunity, and how you can either be ready for it or not.  This episode explores their story along with a few others to learn how to be prepared for when your opportunity strikes. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.   

In part two of our Advent preaching series (December 7th, 2025), Father Joshua outlines the first two Thresholds of Conversion: Initial Trust and Spiritual Curiosity. According to Sherry Weddell, over 50% of Catholics in the pews on Sunday are in these two Thresholds. While it is good that they are still showing up, it means that Jesus has so much more in store for them! Fr. Joshua challenges all of us to honestly recognize we are in the journey, and to be open to the more that God has for us.

This episode focuses on pianists but applies to all instrumentalists.  We explore what technique actually is and isn't, and a practical way to get better at it.  My guest, Dr. Christopher Madden, is co-author along with Jani Parsons of "Technique Through Repertoire" vol. 1 and 2 for intermediate pianists. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

A very handy skill for any musician to develop is the ability to look at written sheet music and "hear" what it sounds like in your head.  It's a skill that takes time, but this episode will outline all the steps you can take to develop this ability. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On the Solemnity of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (November 23rd, 2025), Father Joshua Fons delves into what the Kingship of Christ looks like. In the face of common misconceptions about Kingship, Fr. Joshua unpacks what Christ's kingship actually looks like. This is such a critical question, because in baptism, we were given a share of this kingship! The Lord has invited us to share in his authority, but we need to look to Christ to understand how to live that out.

One of the biggest things that musicians do in all levels, but especially professionals, is say "yes" way too much.  There's a time to say "yes" a lot, and I describe that in this episode.  However, being strategic and limited with your "yes" while saying "no" to everything else is what allows for growth and focus.  In this episode, you can learn of 8 things that happen when you say "no". Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

On the Feast of the Dedication of Lateran Basilica (November 9th, 2025), Father Joshua Fons preaches on the great adventure God is inviting each of us into: our vocation. The example of those early Christians who witnessed in the Lateran Basilica rising in the city of so many martyrs should inspire us to give our whole lives to Christ. It is in our vocation that God invites us into holiness and happiness, and to live the life we are meant to live.

If you're a professional musician, it can be hard to separate the idea that there's this part of your schedule where you make music just for YOU.  It might be music you're composing, or an ambitious piece you're learning to play.  You might make your income as a musician and you might have a career that has nothing to do with music.  Regardless, you can and should take time to explore music without any regard to its commercial benefit. Jennifer Rosenfeld is a business coach who has worked with musicians, as well as a pianist and composer.  You can find out more about her and her work at https://www.jenniferrosenfeld.com/ Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps private music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

Analytical Listening is one of the most important skills for any musician. Take it to the next level by implementing any 1 of these 5 advanced projects while listening to just one piece of music. Other Episodes mentioned: 20 Questions to Help You Get More Out of Listening Scales, Modes, and How to Use Them Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

If you think you're practicing well but still not making progress in your musical skill, here are 10 possible reasons and their solutions. Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps private music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.

This episode is a broad conversation between friends, but centers around the topics of finding joy in your growth as a musician, time management, practice and mindset, as well as what it means to be a human artist in the digital age.  We also have some talk for those getting started with teaching. Eric Branner is the CEO of Fons, a platform for music teachers I regularly have listed at the bottom of my show notes.  Follow the Fons Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fonsfamily Musicianship Mastery is formerly known as The Musician Toolkit. Let me know your thoughts on this episode as a voice message to possibly share on a future episode at https://www.speakpipe.com/MusicianToolkit If you enjoyed this, please give it a rating and review on the podcast app of your choice.  You can find all episodes of this podcast at https://www.davidlanemusic.com/toolkit You can follow David Lane AND the Musician Toolkit podcast on Facebook @DavidMLaneMusic, on Instagram and TikTok @DavidLaneMusic, and on YouTube @davidlanemusic1 This episode is sponsored by Fons, an online platform that helps music teachers with smooth, automated assistance such as securing timely automatic payments and scheduling.  Click here for more information or to begin your free trial.