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Welcome to Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast No. 728! It's Vidas and usually we do these conversations with Ausra but today I'm delighted to speak with a very special guest—someone whose music has brought inspiration, beauty, and calm to listeners and performers around the world.Dr. James Michael Stevens, joining us from Nashville, Tennessee, is a remarkably prolific composer, pianist, and educator. He currently serves as the Dean of the School of Music at Welch College, and his creative output is nothing short of astonishing. With thousands of published compositions, Dr. Stevens has developed a signature style that blends lyrical grace, spiritual depth, and heartfelt simplicity.Many of his works, especially his meditative piano pieces, have become favorites among church musicians, educators, and recording artists alike. His music resonates deeply with people looking for comfort, peace, and emotional honesty—and more recently, it has also found a home in the repertoires of organists.In this episode, we'll explore how James approaches composition and stays so remarkably productive. We'll discuss how he balances creative flow with discipline, what inspires the emotional tone of his music, and how sacred themes guide his writing. We'll also talk about his experiences in music education, the challenges and rewards of publishing, and what advice he would give to aspiring composers and church musicians today.Enjoy the conversation!James Michael Stevens Website:https://www.jamesmichaelstevens.com/welcome.htmlAll music at Sheet Music Plus:https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/category/arrangeme/?q=James+M+Stevens+Music+ASCAP?&aff_id=605733Organ Solo Music at Sheet Music Plus:https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/category/instruments/piano-and-keyboard/organ/organ-solo/?prefn1=artists_composers&prefv1=James+Michael+StevensSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7oMHPMTAKVFtskAXuQ4u1k?si=vk9WqmheTUWEfnAAJpUGIAJames Michael Stevens
The past two years have seen enormous growth and development at ArrangeMe, and today on the show Scott Harris is here to break it all down and talk about the future of the program. We hit all the big topics: the acquisition of Hal Leonard by Muse Group, the expanded distribution of ArrangeMe titles through the Pass Program, the redesign of the Sheet Music Plus website, Artificial Intelligence, and much more! Join the world's largest self-publishing community at ArrangeMe.com today. --- Visit sellingsheetmusic.com for episode transcripts and additional resources for publishers and composers. Subscribe to Garrett Breeze on YouTube for video versions of the podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/garrett-breeze/support
Synopsis: Get an intro to the concept of flex band and hear about (and support) my latest project for that ensemble. “Into the Mystic Earth” commission consortium "With Joyful Abandon" world premiere by Crystal Lake Community Band Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon or via PayPalTonal Diversions Websitepodcast@tonaldiversions.com
In today's episode,Tara shares some of her favorite helpful apps and products that will help you be a healthy and confident singer! Some of my favorite products, apps, singing helps: The Singing Straw You can use it for warmups or cool downs. Here is a link to get 10% off: https://bit.ly/SingingStrawTara Use code tarab10 Vocal Eze Throat spray that has honey, echinacea, ginger, and more. Manuka Honey drops and sticks that help keep your throat more moist and stop hacking coughing. You can get 15% off here: http://vocaleze.refr.cc/tarabrueske Gua Sha A quart stone that is shaped to help massage your face and neck, or use it for acupuncture. Here is a link on Amazon to purchase one: https://www.amazon.com/Gua-Sha-Facial-Tool-Acupuncture/dp/B08TRGNP9F/ref=asc_df_B08TRGNP9F/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=508231731992&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14798465847751075361&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9019552&hvtargid=pla-1287142188407&th=1 Voice Memos app Or you can get another non IOS app like Recorder Plus. Look for a voice app in your phone app store. Practice App—Modacity (It is a paid app) It can keep track of your days when you practice, the actual time or amount of practicing, has a recorder, metronome and more. Look for it in your phone's app store. Purchasing sheet music/chord charts online Sheet Music Plus https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/ Music Notes https://www.musicnotes.com/ Musescore https://musescore.org/en Hal Leonard Publishing https://www.halleonard.com/ JW Pepper https://www.jwpepper.com/sheet-music/welcome.jsp Amazon Going to the library to utilize or find new songs The Reader's Digest Books Duolingo Great app for learning any language. Free version to paid version. But you can hear native speakers and learn grammar too! Also good for being able to sing and sound closer to the real language. Look for it in your phone's app store. Please reach out to me for teaching. My remote lessons are available online here: https://tarabrueske.com/music-lessons My vocal monthly subscription is called The Singer's Feedback Zone: https://tarab.vipmembervault.com/products/courses/view/21 You can listen on Amazon Audible music, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, iHeart radio, PlayerFM, Spotify and more. If you are willing to rate and review this podcast, please do wherever you listen. Or share it to social media and tag me. Instagram: @tarabrueskemusic Facebook: @tarabmusician
Synopsis: I reflect on a college performance from many years ago. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon or via PayPalTonal Diversions Websitepodcast@tonaldiversions.com “Russian Christmas Music” (Finale), performed by OSU Symphonic and Concert Bands OSU School of Music Crystal Lake Community Band
Download your FREE copy of How to Level up Your Studio Policy in 3 Ways” here: 3 Ways to Level Up Your Studio PolicyJoin the FREE Facebook community for piano teachers:https://www.facebook.com/groups/theprosperouspianoteacherIn this episode, we're diving into a topic that's both exciting and profitable: five effective ways to increase your income right now. If the idea of boosting your earnings has you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, don't worry. I've been there too, but trust me, it's not as daunting as it seems. In fact, by the end of this episode, you'll likely have a fresh perspective on income growth strategies.So, let's jump right in and explore these five ways that can significantly impact your income as a piano teacher.1. Raise Your Rates: The Game-Changing MoveLet's start with the elephant in the room: your rates. If you're like most piano teachers, you may be undercharging for your valuable services. This not only affects your own earnings but also devalues the entire industry. Think about it – if you raise your rates to reflect the true value you offer, it's a win-win situation. Your income increases, and you're helping elevate the standards for piano teaching.Imagine doubling your rates and potentially losing some students in the process. While this might sound risky, consider this: you'll be making the same income for half the work. By charging what you're worth, you're not only investing in yourself but also shifting the perception of piano lessons.2. Embrace Group Classes: A Creative ApproachGroup classes are an exciting way to add value to your teaching and increase your income. Don't let the term "group classes" limit your thinking; they can be more diverse than you imagine. Group classes can cover various topics, from technique and music history to performance practice and music theory. By introducing group classes, you enhance your students' experience, foster a sense of community, and potentially generate additional income.3. Get Paid for Recommendations: Monetize Your ExpertiseDid you know you can turn your recommendations into income? If you frequently suggest specific books or resources to your students, consider affiliate marketing. Platforms like Sheet Music Plus and Amazon offer affiliate programs that allow you to earn a commission for each sale made through your referral links. This turns your role as a mentor into a revenue-generating opportunity.4. Organize Musical Events and Workshops: A Platform for GrowthHosting musical events, workshops, and classes within your community is not only fulfilling but can also boost your income. Partner with local organizations, nursing homes, or community centers to organize recitals, workshops, or even continuing education classes for adults. These events not only showcase your expertise but also act as effective marketing tools, expanding your network and increasing your reach.5. Create Online Content and Courses: The Power of OnlineIn today's digital age, creating online content and courses can be a game-changer for your income. While it may take time to build a substantial following, platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer the opportunity to monetize your expertise. You can also consider sharing resources, and tutorials, or even starting a YouTube channel to showcase your teaching approach and attract new students.Remember, the journey towards increasing your income is not only about financial gains but also about personal and professional growth. So, keep an open mind, explore these...
About This Song. “A Kiss To Build A Dream On” was written in 1935 by Bert Kalmer, Harry Ruby, and Oscar Hammerstein. It was recorded by Louis Armstrong in 1951. Here are some of the lyrics. Keyboard players can download an easy play version of the entire song in C Major at Sheet Music Plus. Thank you for watching.
Synopsis: Here are a few tips and trick for writing for woodwind instruments Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon or via PayPalTonal Diversions Websitepodcast@tonaldiversions.com Instrument studies for eyes and ears – Jacobs School of Music Tonal Diversions Music Podcast Episode 2: Writing for Clarinet
Synopsis: Part 3 of Lori's adventures with Dorico notation software (and NotePerformer). I've spent more time with the software and wanted to give an updated episode Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon or via PayPalTonal Diversions Websitepodcast@tonaldiversions.com Dorico Dorico YouTube channel NotePerformer Elaine Gould's “Behind Bars” (Amazon link) Samuel Z. Solomon's “How to Write for Percussion (Amazon link)
Synopsis: The latest music projects that have been keeping me busy here at Tonal Diversions. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Bohemian Rhapsody for Clarinet Choir (audio) Sneak peek of “With Joyful Abandon” (piano reduction) International Clarinet Association Knock on Wood Clarinet Choir Tonal Diversions Websitepodcast@tonaldiversions.com
Recorded live at the Hal Leonard Booth at ACDA Cincinnati, I talk with Luke Talen (Creative Director of Choral Publications for Hal Leonard), Liz Groch (Head of Growth for Sheet Music Plus, and Scott Harris (Program Manager for ArrangeMe) in a wide ranging conversation about choral music and what composers can do to make their music stand out. Visit garrettbreeze.com for episode transcripts, arranging resources, and links to Garrett's music. Subscribe to the Garrett Breeze YouTube channel for video versions of the podcast. --- Join the world's largest self-publishing community at ArrangeMe.com today. Support the podcast on Patreon. Give your choir the gift of new music this Christmas from holidaychoirmusic.com! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/garrett-breeze/support
Synopsis: This was my second year at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. A good time was had by all! Find out what I experienced, who I met, and my thoughts on it all. #midwestclinic Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Or make a donation via PayPal Transcript Photo album Proclamation Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Joseph Sowa Michael Paul Mitchell Empowering Female Conductors panelists Conducting, Composing, and Performing With Disabilities: An Accessible, Inclusive, and Empathic Vision for Neurodiverse Music When Conductor and Composer Are One Why Audiences Clap: Creating Exciting and Memorable Performances Through Creativity, Connection, and Communication Bud Beyer's “Completing the Circle” (Amazon link) Brass Band of Huntsville French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts John Mackey Julian Bliss Baylor University Wind Ensemble Bands of the Air National Guard Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: Life loves to throw us curve balls. Like getting diagnosed with ADHD in my 40s. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Or make a donation via PayPal ADDitude Why ADHD in Women is Routinely Dismissed, Misdiagnosed, and Treated Inadequately Why ADHD Masking Is a Form of Self-Sabotage ADDA CHADD Tracy Otsuka - ADHD for Smart Ass Women What Is ADHD Masking? How to ADHD YouTube channel Underdiagnosis of Adult ADHD (HCP Live) Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v. 1.1) Books (Amazon affiliate) ADHD 2.0 by Edward Hallowell and John J. Ratey Driven to Distraction by Edward Hallowell Taking Charge of Adult ADHD by Russell A. Barkley A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD by Sari Solden and Michelle Frank Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: Life loves to throw us curve balls. Like getting diagnosed with ADHD in my 40s. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Or make a donation via PayPal ADDitude Why ADHD in Women is Routinely Dismissed, Misdiagnosed, and Treated Inadequately Why ADHD Masking Is a Form of Self-Sabotage ADDA CHADD Tracy Otsuka - ADHD for Smart Ass Women What Is ADHD Masking? How to ADHD YouTube channel Underdiagnosis of Adult ADHD (HCP Live) Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v. 1.1) Books (Amazon affiliate) ADHD 2.0 by Edward Hallowell and John J. Ratey Driven to Distraction by Edward Hallowell Taking Charge of Adult ADHD by Russell A. Barkley A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD by Sari Solden and Michelle Frank Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: I'm sharing my thoughts on writing an artist resume and more as I apply for a state arts grant. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon New England Conservatory tips for writing artist resumes Lori Archer Sutherland's Artist Statement Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: My husband and I went to band camp for adults! In this episode, find out more about our experience at Birch Creek Wind Ensemble Retreat. Transcript Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com Photo album Birch Creek Wind Ensemble Retreat
Part 2 of 2 of Lori's adventures with Dorico notation software. Here I'll talk more about using the software and some of the cool things it can do. Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon https://www.steinberg.net/dorico/ https://www.youtube.com/c/dorico Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: Part 1 of 2 of Lori's adventures with Dorico notation software. I'll cover the purchase and installation process, plus some initial thoughts on the program Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon https://www.steinberg.net/dorico/ https://www.youtube.com/c/dorico Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com
Synopsis: Part two of a two-part episode. In this episode, I talk about some of the tools I use as a clarinetist. Including a metronome. How on earth did I forget to mention that in this episode? Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com A selection of my music on YouTube Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon. Product links: SoundCorset (metronome app that I forgot to mention!) TE Tuner Snark Tuner (Amazon affiliate) Légère reeds Eddie Daniels gold ligature Rovner ligatures Wiseman Cases Mobile Sheets AirTurn Duo foot pedal Earspasm accessories and ligature video D'Addario mouthpieces Backun mouthpieces
Synopsis: Part one of a two-part series about the tools of the trade. In this episode, I'll talk about composition tools. Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com A selection of my music on YouTube Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon. Product links: Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Amazon affiliate, but Costco often has good bundles for sale) StaffPad Finale Dorico AKAI LPK-25 midi keyboard (Amazon affiliate) Mini Piano Lite Zoom H2N recorder (Amazon affiliate)
Synopsis: It's nearing six months since I left my library job to become a full-time musician. How has this transition been going? What projects am I working on? Find out how “music and life, intertwined” is playing out for me. Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com Proclamation for horn choir Shooting Star Ocarina A selection of my music on YouTube Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct (new!) Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon
Calming the Chaos with Music - Interview with Dave Combs Dave Combs is a songwriter, entrepreneur and author of the best selling book “Touched by the Music.” In his book, Dave Combs describes his amazing journey through life from a collection of his own inspiring stories. Over the past four decades he has written over 120 songs and created fifteen albums of soothing, relaxing instrumental piano music, including the popular standard, Rachel's Song. His music has been played millions of times on radio, satellite, and all internet streaming media. Dave is here today on Calming the Chaos to describe what a powerful resource music can be to help you calm any chaos you might be experiencing in your life. 1. Introduction to Dave 2. The Random and Chaotic Events in the world today (some ideas) a. A 2-year Pandemic b. The Ukraine-Russia War c. The Chaos of Income Taxes 3. Prescriptions from Dave: How music can help us find peace in a chaotic world 4. Rachel's Song and other peaceful musical creations 5. Dave's Stories from Listeners Notable Timestamps 37:04 - A Musical Prescription for coping with the Pandemic 43:00 - Calming, Soothing music at Dave's YouTube Channel "Long Playing Music" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=et8fB... 44:16: Dave's Prescription for Ukraine to calm the chaos 46:54 - Your Free link to "Rachel's Song" 47:55 - The Book “Touched by the Music” (Audible actually has Dave's Narration!) 49:45 - If you'd like the sheet music to play Dave's songs, go to Sheet Music Plus at https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/search... 52:17 - Celebrate Freedom was created after 9/11/01, and a fund was created to help students get a scholarship for 27 students at Lake Forest University for free! 54:17 - Play an instrument to calm your chaos (even play the spoons, right, J.D.?) 56:00 - Dave's prescription for Tracy to calm her Tax Chaos - Album "Beautiful Thoughts" 5. Website: www.combsmusic.com 6. Social Media Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TouchedByThe... LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-comb... YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/combsmusic 7. Products / Services / Promotions https://www.amazon.com/Touched-Music-... 8. Jack Canfield interviews Dave https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kvpM... #davecombsmusic #jackcanfield #calmingmusic
Misha Stefanuk speaks about teaching students to play convincingly in a variety of styles, his jazz piano exercise books, and his bestselling easy piano arrangements. In the episode, Misha takes us through some of the exercises from his book “Jazz Piano Lessons.” You can access sheet music for the exercises he discusses here. You can see more of his publications on his Sheet Music Plus and Mel Bay pages.
It's been a little over five months since the lockdowns began, and for almost all of that time I decided to not even think about releasing anything, and simply let my interests be what they would be from day to day. I shut down the Patreon and retreated into a long period of contemplation and largely undirected creative work.As the months passed, I became increasingly interested in composing music rather than improvising it. And over the past month or so, I've been writing daily for orchestra and for string quartet and for piano, and I've been finding this work very satisfying in itself.This piano piece is the first one of these compositions that I'm releasing. It's free to listen to here, but if you'd like to help support my work, you can pick it up along with the rest of my music at Bandcamp. If you play piano and can read written music, the sheet music for this piece is also available through Sheet Music Plus.Track art by Snapwire, licensed through Pexels.
I told a few people prior to publishing this episode that the next guest would be Dan Moore. The response was unanimous, but the inflection varied: "oh man, I gotta hear that guy."Dan Moore took a break from his recent retirement to come talk to me about his small-town beginnings, teaching techniques, advice on jazz band, and his thoughts on marching band. Dan's recent endeavors include a larger focus on publishing his method book, original compositions, and arrangements, clinician services, and writing music and drill for marching band (and no, he doesn't just write "Dan Moore" type shows!).You can find Dan's work by searching "Daniel Moore Music" on facebook, JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Plus.I hope you enjoy this episode!
Welcome to Secrets of Organ Playing Podcast #117! http://www.organduo.lt/podcast Today's guest is composer, organist and choir conductor from New Zealand, Nigel Williams. During his student days he was a chorister at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Auckland. In his eleven years in the choir he developed an interest in composing organ and choral music. After graduating from the University of Auckland with a Master's Degree in composition he began a career as a music teacher. He was at the forefront of music education in New Zealand for almost 30 years having taught variously at Westlake Girls High School, St Paul's Collegiate School, Scots College, and Marsden School for Girls. He retired recently from the position of Director of Music at Mill Hill School in London (UK). Currently Nigel is musical director of the Tauranga Civic Choir for whom he is composing a large scale cantata style work for performance in 2019. He has always maintained an active life as a musician and composer in the community. In Hamilton NZ Nigel established a regional orchestra and jazz band festival for schools. Taking advantage of St Paul's Collegiate new Letourneau organ he established an international organ festival to further promote the playing of the organ in New Zealand. He was Director of Music at Hamilton's St Peter's Cathedral for several years and established choral scholarships to ensure a quality of choral singing at the Cathedral and establish an enduring link with Hamilton's Waikato University's Music Department. In Wellington NZ Nigel served as chair of the Wellington regional committee of the New Zealand Choral Federation. During his seven years as musical director of the Bach Choir of Wellington he enjoyed the opportunity of directing over twenty five concerts with an emphasis on the larger scale works of J.S. Bach. He was fortunate to forge a relationship with members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra which lead to the formation of the Chiesa Ensemble. Nigel's last concert with the Bach Choir was a complete performance of J.S. Bach's Mass in B minor. In this conversation, Nigel shares his insights about his love for twelve tone technique, modal music and of course, the polyphony. Enjoy and share your comments below. And don't forget to help spread the word about the SOP Podcast by sharing it with your organist friends. And if you like it, please head over to iTunes and leave a rating and review. This helps to get this podcast in front of more organists who would find it helpful. Thanks for caring. Related Links: http://www.nigelwilliamscomposernz.com Nigel's music on Sheet Music Plus: http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/search?Ntt=nigel+williams&aff_id=454957
Chris and Paul discuss the release of Dorico, the latest update for Notion for iOS (and some of the problems with the handwriting feature/in-app purchase), Sheet Music Plus, Gustaf, Sample Tank, and some classroom management tips. The second half of the podcast is an interview with Aron Nelson, developer of unrealBook. Special thanks to Aron … Continue reading "An Interview with Aron Nelson, developer of unrealBook"