Described by Broadway World as a "richly powerful singing actress," Nina is redefining what it means to be an opera singer. Beyond her international singing career, she is the Artistic Director at the Boston Lyric Opera and the co-founder and President of the Asian Opera Alliance. Nina is someone who not only talks the talk but walks the walk, usin…

Send us a Text Message. Did you hear the breaking news about Shrek 5 coming out in 2026 with the original cast? In this uproariously entertaining episode of The Funky Panther, we kick things off with that bombshell and take you through a rollercoaster of laughs and stories. We poke fun at Sarah's sun-kissed glow, stumble through a hilariously off-t…

In Part 1, Maestro Slatkin shares stories from his musical upbringing in Los Angeles, enriched by his family's deep musical roots. He reflects on his formative years studying under renowned mentors Jean Morel and Walter Susskind. We explore his process for learning new pieces and his insights on the unique approaches and sounds of various orchestra…

Imagine being a multi-talented artist, a composer who has crafted scores for TV and iconic films like Jeremiah Johnson and The Candidate. Now, imagine you're also an acclaimed actor, having graced countless movies and winning a Tony Award for Children of a Lesser God Picture collaborating with legendary directors such as Bob Fosse, Mike Nichols, an…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered about the quirks behind someone's name or the best way to handle a run-in with the police? On this episode of the Funky Panther, we finally sit down with Kevin Tyrone after three long years of trying to coordinate schedules. We kick things off with plenty of laughs, tequila shots, and personal stories that reve…

Called "one of the biggest talents of his generation," Elias David Moncado, at a very young age, has already had an exceptional career. After winning his first competition at the age of 6, then his first international competition at the age of 8, he went on to win four major competitions after that (the Sendai Violin Competition in 2019, the Intern…

Send us a Text Message. Jonny of Gusto's Burgers has an incredible story that will leave you inspired and hungry for more. From a social media marketer to a culinary maestro, Jonny's journey is filled with passion, perseverance, and the unbeatable taste of classic, nostalgic burgers. Broadcasting from the bustling Magnolia neighborhood in Fort Wort…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered how a viral high school graduation speech can kickstart a career in content creation? Join us as we sit down with TikTok star and Instagram sensation, Peter Bui, who shares his extraordinary journey from Arlington, Texas, to social media stardom. Hear firsthand about Peter's family business in Fort Worth, his u…

Frederica von Stade has had a fabulous career as an opera singer, recitalist, and concert artist. In her long career, she has performed and recorded internationally, working with major conductors around the world (Karajan, Bernstein, Abbado, to name just a few.) In addition, she has championed the works of many contemporary composers, most notably …

Send us a Text Message. As the curtain rises once again for the enigmatic maestro Dustin Massey, we're reminded that every chord tells a story. Our latest jam session is studded with laughter, candid anecdotes, and the melodic journey of a man who's heart beats in sync with his guitar strings. From the hazy memories post-COVID to the thrill of shar…

Dr. Micah Killion is a trumpeter who has devoted the past several years to better understanding what constitutes effective practice and learning. Formerly a member of the Air Force Band, he has also been an arts administrator. In addition to his performing and research, he has also been involved in helping underprivileged populations through the po…

Miguel Harth Bedoya has been the Music Director of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra for 20 years and is now their Music Director Laureate. In addition to other Music Director positions he has held, he has also guest conducted major orchestras around the world such as the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra, a…

Send us a Text Message. Crack open a stout and get ready for a wild ride through Fort Worth, because we're bringing the heat with an episode that's as flavorful as it is insightful. We recount a photo development saga that's too funny to miss—nudity, vinegar strokes, and all. But that's just the appetizer. Our special guests, Michael Ferrari Le and…

Send us a Text Message. Strap in as the enigmatic Doc Roc of The Troumatics and hand surgeon extraordinaire takes you on a tour through the electric avenues of rock melodies and the meticulous lanes of medical practice. From the early days of music where 'Peel and Eat Shrimp' was more than just a dinner option, to the adrenaline-fueled moments in t…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered how a tumble from the world of real estate into the verdant fields of the hemp industry pans out? Well, saddle up, Funky Panthers, because Colt Power of Power Biopharms joins us for a riveting gallop through his journey from injury management with CBD to cultivating a blossoming business that's ready to adapt w…

Kevin Mayse is the wind ensemble conductor, trumpet teacher, and chair of the Department of Music at Riverside City College. Even though RCC is a two year college, what Kevin has been able to accomplish has been exceptional. His wind ensemble not only performs major works but also has a vibrant commissioning program, top flight soloists, and perfor…

Send us a Text Message. Remember the first time you heard about Hollywood's dark underbelly, and it felt like a splash of cold water on your dreams? Well, buckle up, because this episode of The Funky Panther doesn't just splash; it dunks you right into the deep end. We tear the curtain back on the harrowing truths revealed in "Quiet on the Set" and…

Jon Armstrong is an amazingly versatile performer, composer, educator and thinker. Perhaps that should come as no surprise, since as a young man in his home town in Oregon, Jon not only played in a Buddhist marching band but also worked 12 hour shifts in a diaper factory! After a highly successful career in LA, he now teaches at Idaho State Univers…

Send us a Text Message. Lou CharLe$, returns for his third visit to our show. Tune in for unfiltered conversations on the Fort Worth music scene's post-pandemic landscape, where local talents face new challenges and opportunities. Lou shares his creative journey, touching on burnout and the rebirth of inspiration. And if you're curious about the si…

Matilda Lloyd has already had an exceptional career at a very young age. Her first album, Casta Diva, released on Chandos Records, was BBC Music Magazine's Recording of the Month in June of 2023. She will also be a European Concert Hall Organization "Rising Star" for the 2024/2025 season. But in addition to being an international trumpet soloist, s…

Send us a Text Message. As the laughter from Visit Fort Worth's last annual meeting still echoes in my ears, we sit back and recount the tales that have given our city its rhythm. Lou Charles, the heartbeat of the Fort Worth music scene, gets a special nod alongside a our potential golf cart race shenanigans. We revel in the diversity of our local …

Send us a Text Message. When Gabby finally joined us in the studio, we knew we were in for a treat—a kaleidoscope of sound and story awaited us. From tales of pre-labor feasts to the serendipity of music-filled church events, our conversation meandered through the rich tapestry of life as artists and lovers of music. Gabby, a singer-songwriter and …

During the series of conversations I've had with people in the music business over the past 3 1/2 year, I've spoken with guests representing many aspects of music. But I haven't spoken with anybody about the give and take between orchestra management and musicians. So, who better to have on the podcast than Lynn Larsen? Lynn has been Personnel Mana…

Send us a Text Message. Have you ever bet on the progression of AI technology while reminiscing about hip-hop's golden days? Well, we did just that in our latest episode of with special guest the R.A.P. Podcast, straight outta Fort Worth, Texas. Javi, Tim, and Chad get into a hearty laugh riot, pondering the bizarre yet amazing future where AI coul…

Richard Antoine White (RAW Tuba) is principal tubist with the New Mexico Philharmonic, principal tuba of the Santa Fe Symphony, and a full professor of tuba at the University of New Mexico. But for more reasons than those, he has been an inspiration for those of us familiar with his life and work. For the first four years of his life, he was homele…

Send us a Text Message. Hey Funky Panther family! Buckle up for a rollercoaster of emotions as we kick it off with a dose of nostalgia, reliving the glory days through the lens of classic DFW commercials – you know, those jingles that stick with you like gum on a hot sidewalk. We cruise through the Super Bowl's unforgettable moments and keep the en…

Send us a Text Message. Hey there, The Funky Panther family! Ever found yourself reminiscing about those childhood cereals that seemed better suited for your grandparents' pantry? Well, tune in to this episode as we wax nostalgic on how our palates have matured, giving a standing ovation to foods like Brussels sprouts and oatmeal, and musing over t…

I first met pianist Katharina Kegler in 1992 when I auditioned for the position of trumpet professor at the Freiburg Musik Hochschule. Katharina was assigned to me as the accompanist for the short concert I would have to play and, unbeknownst to me, it was her first service since being hired at the Hochschule. So over many year we have not only tau…

Send us a Text Message. Ever been struck by a wave of nostalgia for the days of VHS tapes and CD players? Well, that's exactly where we kick off this episode, with a burst of laughter over mustache ride jokes before diving into the more profound moments of confronting online trolls with our special guests Jesus and Lance in the Panther Den. We flip…

Trumpeter Dave Bilger has had a stellar career as both a performer and also as an educator. He was principal trumpet with the Dallas Symphony, and following that, principal trumpet with the Philadelphia Orchestra for many years. In addition to the 27 years he's taught at the Curtis Institute of Music, he's also Professor of Trumpet at the Northwest…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered what happens when a group of irreverent podcasters celebrates their four-year anniversary? Well, wonder no more, because that's exactly what we're bringing to your ears. Get ready to embark on a rollicking journey with us, your Funky Panther hosts Chad, Javier, and Tim, and our hilarious guest Zeus, as we strol…

Send us a Text Message. Ever found yourself sifting through your old social media posts and wondering why you shared what you ate for breakfast back in 2010? Well, Chad, Javier, and Tim here, from The Funky Panther, going off-script to grapple with the digital ghosts of our past and the cringe-worthy urge to hit delete. In Episode 161, as we celebr…

Andreas Neubronner is a record producer and engineer who has won 8 Grammy awards. He has recorded great orchestras around the world and is known for his recordings of the Mahler Symphonies with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas, his work with Baroque and Renaissance ensembles, and piano soloists Murray Perahia …

Send us a Text Message. As the confetti settles on another whirlwind year, my pals Javier, Tim, and I cozy up to the mic for a heartfelt and humorous farewell to the days gone by. Revel in our rollercoaster of reminiscences, where we bare our financial foibles and life's unpredictable swings from sorrow to sheer bliss. We'll tickle your funny bone …

In his thirty-eight years with the Utah Symphony, Nick Norton experienced all aspects of what it means to be an orchestral trumpet player. He began his career with the orchestra as second trumpet and after nine years auditioned for, and won, the newly vacated position of principal trumpet. Towards the end of his tenure with the orchestra, he moved …

Send us a Text Message. Ever found yourself marooned on shore after a snorkel boat mishap? We didn't think so, but we've got the scoop on that and more as Jourdyne and Kait from Forever Reckless join us on The Funky Panther. Our latest episode is bursting at the seams with everything from the holiday viewing debate to Christmas memories that stick.…

Send us a Text Message. Ever find yourself pondering the appeal of cults or how to squeeze into stadium seats without damaging your dignity? Well, we've got you covered on this episode of The Funky Panther! We start off with a tasty discussion on tamales, and our exploration into this culinary delight is as greasy and delicious as it sounds. We eve…

Bill Williams is a musician who has had a stellar career as a symphony musician, chamber musician, and soloist. But in addition to his performing, he is also a consultant with a wide range of clients, including elite performers and institutions, focusing on the tools needed to perform well consistently. On his website The Path to Optimal Performanc…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered what happens when a billionaire walks away from a billion-dollar franchise? Mark Cuban did just that by selling the Dallas Mavericks, and we've got the scoop on the aftermath! From the potential impact on the team to the future of the franchise, we unravel the implications of this eye-popping event. But it's no…

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered what it would be like to eavesdrop on a conversation between friends talking about their favorite food combinations, or their preferred fictional characters? Well, here's your chance! Join us for a lively chat with the cool crew of TFTI, a popular podcast based in Fort Worth, Texas. We spill the tea on their jo…

Send us a Text Message. Prepare to journey into the heart of Texas, with your favorite cult leaders, Chad, Javier, and Tim, as we dissect the peculiar Cult of The Funke Panther. Ever wondered what's involved in joining a cult, and how it's legally binding? Ready to celebrate the Texas Rangers' World Series win and the hunt for that elusive World Se…

Send us a Text Message. Hey there, funky folks! Did you know that the world of AI technology is so advanced it can create music, and our favorite person, Jaeboy, has been exploring the possibilities? In this gripping episode, we tantalize your tech taste buds as Jaeboy takes us on a deep dive into AI's potential to not only create music but also to…

Send us a Text Message. What makes a good camping trip? Is it the location, the company, or maybe even the food? Join us as we unpack our camping adventures and quirky food habits. From state parks excursions to the great pineapple on pizza debate, we've got it all covered to tickle your adventure and foodie spirit! And for our music lovers, rememb…

We begin Part 2 by talking about his time with the San Francisco Ballet and how conducting ballet is so different from conducting orchestras. From there we move on to the New World Symphony and the studying of scores in preparation for rehearsals and concerts, how much time is involved, and the strategy he has for score analysis. Would you like mor…

In the Bonus Room we discuss Chad's book, "You Earned a Music Degree. Now What?" This is a book that offers many practical and usable suggestions for students graduating from college and wanting to pursue a career in music. It is indeed a working musicians field guide, and we cover many areas of the book. Students will find this part of the intervi…

Send us a Text Message. Get ready to pull up a stool and toast to the fascinating world of craft beers with us. We're taking you on a flavorful journey, sharing our all-time favorite beers and our current local favorites. Our co-hosts, spill their love for beers like Death by Coconut Oscar Blues and a unique Russian Cinnamon Churro Baltic Stout fro…

Chad Goodman is, to quote Christina Wallace from Forbes Magazine, "an entrepreneur bringing innovation to classical music." In his young life, Chad has started his own ensemble, the Elevate Ensemble, worked with the San Francisco Symphony and San Francisco Ballet as a conductor, is a Conducting Fellow of the New World Symphony, and has recently bee…

Send us a Text Message. Pull up a barstool and share a laugh with us as we crack open a cold La Raza Mexican Lager from Funky Picnic Brewery and dive into a world of craft beer and brewing with our special guest, Sam. Known for her infectious energy and innovative brewing concepts, Sam is one of the driving force behind Funky Picnic Brewery. We jou…

We continue our conversation about experiences at Juilliard and then move on to their current jobs: Principal Trumpet with the Nashville Symphony and Principal Trombone with the New York City Ballet, and specifically what they experienced in their auditions for those two orchestras. Would you like more inspirational stories, suggestions, insights, …

In addition to their new jobs, Will and Carlos have had experiences performing with other major orchestras, such as the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the St. Louis Symphony, and the London Symphony. Our talk then turns to the future, with Will talking about his work with the Vennture Mouthpiece company, and Carlos about trainin…