💥 Power couple alert! 💥 This month's conversation hits on a ton of great topics, featuring the very interesting perspectives of not one, but two titans of the industry - world-class soprano Joélle Harvey and epic artist manager Alex Fletcher. Not only do they bring their unique thoughts to the table as individuals, they give us a glimpse into how t…

If you're interested in hearing a little bit about everything, this one's for you. Rhoslyn Jones brings the most joy to her artistry as a teacher and performer. Grab a listen to hear about her amazing early musical opportunities in Canada, and stay to hear all her hot takes on the industry and celebrity teachers. Oh, and no pigs were harmed during …

It's truly the most interesting man alive: English baritone Roderick Williams. Yes, the same Roderick Williams who sang at King Charles III's coronation in 2023. The one you've probably heard on most any English song album. Would you guess the magnitude of his career after listening to this chill conversation he has with Sam? Definitely not. So set…

The great Scottish pianist Iain Burnside joins Sam for a fun and informative conversation. Come for the sage advice on how to stay active in this ever-changing classical music landscape, stay for the greatest page-turning fail you never knew you needed to hear. Visit Iain Burnside's website. Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative.…

What better way to kick off 2024 and Season 4 than with inspiration for chasing our own authentic selves? Allowing our mindsets to change over time, adopting new attitudes and approaches, and always - always - learning from those around us. It's the best advice for all of us, only from Gwen Coleman, right here on Song Cycle. Visit Gwen Coleman's we…

The Season 3 finale crossover extravaganza is here! Sam invites the hosts of CSI's other podcasts, So Lit Song Lit and Follow the Lieder to join him to discuss what their shows are all about. More importantly, though, is your chance to see if you can guess even fewer music trivia questions correctly than this band of hooligans did. Happy holidays t…

Who better for a gratitude-filled, inspirational, optimistic, and enlightening Thanksgiving conversation than the luminous Sasha Cooke? From learning to trust the universe when doors of opportunity open, to meaningful commissioning projects that caught fire, to chatting about why Wolf is such a singularly unique song composer, Sasha and Sam cover a…

Artist. Administrator. Visionary. Unique. Multi-dimensional. Drag icon. Legend. Just the first few words that come to mind when thinking about renowned singer Stephanie Blythe. Join her and Sam in a no-holds-barred discussion on finding inspiration and meaning from who came before us, the future of classical music, the need for artists to connect w…

This one's for you if you need a little inspiration on turning your passions into action. Meet Laura Strickling, literal creator of the #TeamArtSong hashtag, song advocate, conduit between singers, pianists, and composers, and all-around song cheerleader. Get to know her, her story, and go bookmark her brand new album, 40@40! Song Cycle is a produc…

Sholto Kynoch, Founding Artistic Director of the newly rebranded Oxford International Song Festival, sits down with Sam to discuss song across the Pond, how the organization engages audiences in bold and relevant ways, and that one time they bribed audience members to come to their concerts... for science, of course. Song Cycle is a production of C…

The wholesome content you've been waiting for is finally here. Meet legendary composer and CSI Advisory Council member Shawn Okpebholo, who not only writes some of the most searing and poignant vocal music of today, but also keeps it 100% real by never losing sight of the ones who helped him get where he is today and paying it forward by nurturing …

You know how you have that one friend who seems to be able to do it all? That's Myra Huang. When she's not busy working with the next generation of opera stars at The Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, coaching at Manhattan School of Music, or running the show at the Aspen Opera Theater as director of musical administr…

It's the one, the only, Queen City Cabaret! Get to know cool cats Sarah Folsom and Matthew Umphreys and how they got their start swooning their way through Cincinnati. Hear some live clips to get in the mood, learn more about the genre of cabaret and the Great American Songbook, and don't miss our co-production with them on March 18, 2023 - Unforge…

🚨 This is not a drill! 🚨 Song Cycle's third season is here, and our kickoff episode features none other than the *incredible* English pianist Julius Drake. Dig in with Sam as he learns all about Julius' upbringing, his fascinating career, and that one time Wigmore Hall staff came to him backstage with some shocking news... Song Cycle is a productio…

Laura talks with arts administrator and collaborative pianist Allen Perriello. While many of us seem to be going through transitions during these COVID times, Allen talks about what gets him up in the morning, what grounds him, and what keeps him focused. Covering topics ranging from mentors who give that first opportunity to do something great, or…

Gwen and Slim give unpopular and logical hot takes about the Will Smith and Chris Rock slap debacle heard around the world. What does protecting Black women look like? Are respectability politics at play? Is slapgate comparable to the Supreme Court hearing confirmation for Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson? Where is the outrage about Clarence Thomas?…

Gwen is making a brief appearance from podcast hiatus to talk Tik Tok, racist dog whistles, visible discomfort with saying African American or Black, performative allyship, fake wokeness and the Modern Warrior womblands drama.By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

In this episode, Laura talks with Dr. Amelia Nagoski, DMA, co-author of the New York Times bestselling book, "Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle." They discuss Dr. Nagoski's career, the reality of COVID and its effect on the lives of artists, the patriarchy, and burnout. As many artists are enduring or have endured tough transitions …

In this episode, Laura talks with singer, arts administrator, and former nurse Nicolette Rader about life transitions and how music can be both the impetus behind and comfort during life and career transitions. They discuss handling those transitions with grace and trust, how mental health and performance go hand-in-hand, and perspective on the wor…

Laura talks with world-renowned German song scholar Dr. Susan Youens about what led her to her research, the power of art song to make us pay attention, life's journeys, overcoming academic barriers, and of course Schubert and Wolf. This is a lecture in an episode, grab a notebook; you'll want to take notes. Notes Book: Clara Schumann Studies Dr. Y…

In this episode, Laura chats with soprano Dr. Shannon Cochran about the joys of singing during the pandemic, the importance of setting boundaries and self-care, and what tools we have available to replenish ourselves as artists. Keep this one in your back pocket when you need a little pick-me-up. Notes Shannon Cochran, soprano Donate to CSI Join CS…

Laura talks with Reggie Smith, singer and life-advice giver extraordinaire. Covering everything from recital programming, song's profound ability to change our thoughts and the thoughts of those around us, and the rewards and challenges of living on the road, like Reggie says, there's "something for everyone". Notes Reginald Smith, Jr. Donate to CS…

Laura talks with Matt Cahill about the importance of healing through music and that our artistic journeys should give both those making the art and those consuming the art new life and perspective. This is a good one if you're in need of some artistic TLC. Notes Hogfish ATSinging Book: Coddling of the American Mind Book: Pedagogy of the Oppressed D…

Laura talks with Martha Guth and Erika Switzer of Sparks and Wiry Cries about the importance of song as a medium to connect people especially during a time when connection feels less available, leadership in the arts, and the ability to stay flexible in times of uncertainty. In addition to some sound advice about toe safety. Notes Sparks and Wiry C…

In this episode, Laura and Sam recap the first season of Song Cycle and the fifth season of Cincinnati Song Initiative. While goofy and sometimes incoherent, Laura and Sam manage to discuss the important things: the successes and opportunities presented by the pandemic, the importance of story, and some favorite moments from the pod and the groundb…

In this episode Laura talks with Will Liverman. Will is a baritone, a composer, and an arts advocate. This conversation solidifies the importance of storytelling, accepting that you have your own voice to tell your own stories, and recognizing that to bring about social change both in the music world and whole world at large requires deliberate act…

In this episode, Laura talks with Kathy Kelly, a pianist, coach, conductor, writer, mentor, and arts leader. And, if that wasn't enough, Kathy is a fierce advocate for gender and racial equity in the musical world by fostering and creating music that will perpetuate and transform our musical world one collaboration at a time. Notes Kathleen Kelly K…

In this episode, Laura talks with bass-baritone Davóne Tines. Davóne is a multi-talented, many-faceted storyteller, communicator, arts leader and singer. In addition to preparing for his time singing in the Cincinnati May Festival, Davóne is innovating the performance realm of vocal music and changing lives along the way. Maybe have a tissue ready …

In this episode, Laura talks with Linda McAlister, the executive director of Schmidt Vocal Arts, CSI board member, and arts leader and advocate. Covering everything from changing careers to presidential pardons to Amanda Gorman, Linda talks about her career as a performer in the US and in Europe and transitioning into her role in arts administratio…

In this episode, Laura and Sam talk with Karen Slack about... well, everything. This extraordinary artist shares her story about her life and career and gets real about the struggles within the industry, how to stay creative during a time when it feels almost impossible, and our hopes for the future. Especially during the pandemic, it's important t…

Gwen, Ismael and Brooklyn go down hip hop memory lane as we discuss the epic Verzuz battle in July 2020 between DMX and Snoop. This episode is another ode to hip hop and dedicated to DMX who passed away today, April 9th, 2021.By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

In this episode, Laura talks with JJ Penna, a phenomenal pianist, coach, and mentor. Talking with JJ is like getting a lesson in how to listen - both to other people and to music and its texts - which comes full circle when he gives his advice at the end of the episode. While every moment with JJ feels like it has its own profound importance, its e…

Gwen had to come out of hiatus (again) to share thoughts on the recent hate crime in ATL against Asian women and discuss the importance of BIPOC unity and support to fight against racism and systematic oppression.By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

In this episode, Laura sits down with Margo Garrett, a shining light and pioneer of the collaborative piano world, and all-around wonderful person. They talk about Margo's career, what it's like to be a woman in the classical music world, and how to keep our art alive, even when it feels almost impossible during the COVID-19 pandemic. Notes 4D Pian…

Gwen takes a quick break from hiatus to share some thoughts on Coming 2 America 2. Minimal spoilers.By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

Laura sits down (with herself) to talk about art song: a brief history, how it's different from other musical forms, and why it's important especially today. Notes Join CSI Digital Donate to CSI Learn more about the 2025 Fellowship of the Song and apply to be a Fellow here.By Cincinnati Song Initiative

Laura has a conversation with Dr. Eileen Strempel. Eileen is the inaugural dean for the Herb Alpert School of Music at UCLA, a prolific singer and performer, a fierce advocate for new music especially by female composers, and a pioneer in educational leadership and equity. Notes Eileen's book: Beyond Free College: Making Higher Education Work for 2…

Laura sits down with opera director and acting teacher David Paul to talk about the tough questions being asked regarding the performing arts world, our responsibility to respond to calls for change and adaptation, and one of Laura's profoundly embarrassing moments during her youth. Notes David Paul, director Top 10 Role Study Wolftrap's The Orpheu…

Laura and Sam sit down (virtually) to talk about CSI, art song, community, and the importance of flossing. Notes Donate to CSI Join CSI Digital Learn more about the 2025 Fellowship of the Song and apply to be a Fellow here.By Cincinnati Song Initiative

Gwen is back with VIP guest Ismael Abdusalaam aka @beatsboxingmahem to discuss the support of various Black male rappers for Trump45 prior to election day. We break down the impact of celebrity idolization on American culture and how the working class and middle class blindly follow people who do not have their best interests at heart or in mind. G…

Gab with Gwen podcast announces a new series of episodes of Club and Dating Chronicles with a wide range of real life stories from the annals of Gwen's forgetful brain. Gwen will share snippets of dating men and clubbing around the world in her late teens and throughout her 20s. The innocent will be protected. Some names and identifying details wil…

Gwen drops a few quick gems about the art of reading, Stormy Daniels, native New Yorker slick talk, and the Cheeto's achilles heel.Follow @gabwithgwen on Twitter and Instagram for the latest commentary and updates!By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

Gwen is back to laugh and reflect on the current state of affairs in the good ol' USA. Gwen is hollering at the hustler in chief paying $750 in taxes while rabid supporters still blindly follow this snake oil salesman with a terrible fake bake. Gwen prefers #90fiance drama to the US presidential debate debacle and does the mathematics on the White …

Gwen is back to speak truth to light about the lack of justice for Breonna Taylor, blocking out the noise and distractions from celebrities, pundits and social media as well as actionable steps moving forward to make a difference.Follow @gabwithgwen on Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates.By Gab with Gwen and friends about sex, love, life, relationships, identity politics and randomness

Gwen is back with another controversial timely episode regarding the fake shock of the Democrats due to the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the reality of the US Supreme Court proceeding with a conservative Republican majority. Gwen explains the short-sighted nature of the Democratic party and LACK of strategic planning in …

Gwen and Slim go down the rabbit hole about the recent blackfishing scandal with Jessica Krug, a white professor at George Washington University, pretending to be AfroLatina for the duration of her career and the pathology of fake woke Karens in blackface. We discuss the one drop rule, the politics of being white passing, colorism as well as white …

The family affair (Gwen, Trinity, Slim, J and Ismael aka @beatsboxingmahem ) came together again to look back at the entire first season of @imaydestroyyou to connect the dots from beginning to end and discuss listener commentary/feedback. We break down Simon and Terry's roles now that we've watched the whole season and revisit the themes of friend…

Brittany is a returning guest to gab with Gwen representing Gen Z! Brittany shares her experience as a 2020 college grad in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic in a red state as well the job outlook and career prospects during these difficult economic times. Gwen and Brittany discuss Gen Z being on the forefront of the Black Lives Matter movement…

The family affair (Gwen, Trinity, Slim, J and Ismael) is back to review and discuss the season finale of IMDY aptly entitled "Ego Death." Gwen and friends break down the 3 scenarios after Bella regains her memory from the fateful night on January 22nd. Lots of hot takes. Stay tuned for a follow-up tying together the season in its entirety.Follow @g…

It is a family affair to discuss the penultimate episode of I May Destroy You season with Trinity, Slim, J and Ismael are all here to gab with Gwen! This is the episode Gwen has been waiting for all season! We finally get some long awaited answers and resolution and we have different opinions. Gwen. Trinity, Slim. J and Ismael break down Bella's be…