Petra Sittig hosts a conversation series devoted to artists and the organizations that support them, giving creative people a platform to share their stories and perspectives. Each episode explores the role the arts play in society and the way culture shapes human development. The show also looks at how creative work is being pushed to the margins, particularly in education, and why that matters for younger generations. Through interviews and reflection, it celebrates all forms of art and argues for keeping culture vital and relevant for the future.
Episodes
Business as a Force for Good: Empowering Artisans in Guatemala
In this conversation with Hubert Bendfeldt, strategist, Industrial Engineer and founder of UTZ Means Good, we explore how business can become a force for good and create meaningful, lasting change. Based in Antigua, Guatemala, Hubert and his team are working to help local artisans bring their handmade products to international markets, opening doors to new opportunities and more sustainable liveli
The Language of Colour: Inside the Artistic World of Kennedy Etsegbe
In this conversation with Nigerian artist Kennedy Etsegbe, we talk about his journey as an artist, his love for colour, and how he uses shapes and geometric forms to tell stories about his community, identity and cultural heritage. Kennedy graduated with distinction in 2023 from Tai Solarin University of Education in Nigeria, where he was recognised as the best student in painting. His work brings
Eli Waltz: When Guitar, Harmonica and Voice Become One
Originally from Massachusetts, Eli Waltz is now making music in Vienna. In our conversation, he talks about his musical journey, from learning the recorder and trumpet as a child to discovering the guitar at summer camp. What began as a love for playing gradually developed into a way of expressing himself through both guitar and voice. One of the most interesting parts of Eli’s story is his first
What If Mozart Had One More Masterpiece? David K. Israel’s The Lost Mozart
It was lovely catching up with David K. Israel again, and this time our conversation took us away from music and into the world of his latest novel, The Lost Mozart, published by Regalo Press in August 2026. David is a novelist, essayist, composer and screenwriter who has spent more than three decades telling stories through words, music and film. His work as a composer has brought him into the wo
Phinda Kabini: Telling His Community’s Story Through Art
Phinda Kabini is a young, self-taught artist from South Africa who is determined to follow his passion for art, despite the challenges he faces. In our conversation, Phinda shares the people who have inspired him on his journey and how a lack of art materials meant that he began with pencil drawings before eventually receiving paints that allowed him to experiment with acrylics and oils. His paint
Manuel Ortiz Babiloni: Shaping Silence into Sound
What does it mean to be a pianist, and what is the responsibility of a musician towards an audience? These are some of the questions I explored in my conversation with Manuel Ortiz Babiloni, a young Spanish pianist currently studying at the Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna (MUK). Born in Castellón, Spain, Manuel grew up in an artistic family. His mother, Elvira Babiloni, is a concer
Anina Deetlefs: The Architecture of Quiet Things | Seeing Beauty in the Unseen
In this conversation, I speak with South African artist Anina Deetlefs about her latest body of work, The Architecture of Quiet Things, presented at Art@Africa Gallery in Cape Town. Anina has spent many years painting flowers. But while looking more closely at the flowers she was painting, she discovered another world hidden within them. Beneath their familiar beauty is an intricate universe of ce
Di Slaney: Where Poetry, Nature and Animals Meet
In this interview, I speak with Di Slaney, a poet, publisher and passionate advocate for animals and the natural world. Based in Nottinghamshire, England, Di runs Manor Farm Charitable Trust, a livestock sanctuary, alongside her independent publishing company, Candlestick Press. With a background in marketing and a lifelong affinity for writing, particularly poetry, Di discovered a new source of i
Francis Jay: Why Art Is About the Process, Not the Result
In this conversation with South African SAMA award-winning R&B singer, songwriter and producer Francis Jay, we talk about the role that music and creativity have played in his life from a young age. Francis shares how his sister, opera singer Monica Mhangwana, encouraged him and inspired him to start writing songs. She also passed on some of the knowledge and lessons she had gathered along her
Zarek Silberschmidt: Finding His Own Voice Through Gypsy Jazz
In this conversation, I speak with guitarist Zarek Silberschmidt, a full-time freelance musician based in Basel, Switzerland, whose work spans solo and ensemble performance, studio work, composition and music education. Zarek’s approach to the guitar is as curious and unconventional as his musical journey, moving between solo guitar, traditional jazz, fingerstyle, Dixieland and, most importantly,
First the Soul, Then the Lines | The Art of Aurélien VLNA
In this conversation, I speak with wildlife artist Aurélien VLNA, whose paintings grow from a deep connection with animals and the natural world. Aurélien travels around the world to experience wildlife in its natural surroundings. For him, being out in the wild is not simply about observing an animal. It is about sensing its presence, its movement and its energy. He brings this experience into hi
More Than Music: How Empangeni High School Is Shaping Young Lives
In this interview, I speak with Andre Visser, Head of Music at Empangeni High School in South Africa, about a school where music has become much more than an extracurricular activity. It has become an important part of the school’s identity and its approach to educating young people. Empangeni High School’s celebrated music programme has gained national recognition and, through the school’s unique
Never Give Up: Júlia Aubà on Following a Dream in Musical Theatre
Júlia Aubà is a singer and musical theatre actress from Barcelona whose love for the stage began when she was very young. Long before she imagined herself pursuing musical theatre professionally, she was captivated by the songs and stories of Disney films, singing along to the music and discovering the joy of bringing characters to life. In this conversation, Júlia gives us an insight into the mus
Where Architecture Meets Sculpture: The Art of Jean Theron Louw
In this conversation, I speak with South African artist Jean Theron Louw, an architect whose true passion found its expression through sculpture. Jean studied architecture at the University of the Free State and went on to build a career as an architect before finding her true passion in sculpture. Her architectural training and experience continue to play an important role in the way she approach
Beyond the Baton: David Murphy on Conducting, Science and Human Connection
In this fascinating conversation, I speak with British conductor David Murphy, a musician whose work reaches far beyond the traditional boundaries of conducting. At the heart of his work is a desire to deepen awareness and create a stronger human connection through sound. David takes us back to the beginning of his musical journey, from his early life as a violinist to discovering the art and lang
Paschal Ugwu: Seeing the World Through Different Eyes
In this interview, I speak with Nigerian artist Paschal Ugwu, whose captivating paintings explore the human form, observation and the many layers of the human experience. Based in Abuja, Paschal has developed a distinctive visual language of disjointed human figures, dark skin tones created through expressive paint drippings, exaggerated eyes and a single ear. Working primarily in acrylic on canva
Louis Jansen van Vuuren: Painting and Writing Come From the Same Place
South African artist Louis Jansen van Vuuren is a painter and poet whose life has been shaped by a deep and enduring love for creative expression. As Louis says, “I believe the creative impetus to write and paint comes from the same place.” For him, painting and poetry are not separate paths, but different ways of giving expression to the same creative impulse. In this conversation, Louis talks ab
Jen Morgan: Beyond the Portrait, Discovering Stories Through Art
In this interview, I speak with contemporary fiber artist Jen Morgan, whose richly textured work celebrates the people, culture, music, and distinctive sense of place that define New Orleans and beyond. Jen’s journey into fibre art began with a background in graphic design and a simple felting workshop that opened up a completely new creative world for her. Today, she works almost entirely with na
When Grief Becomes Music: Ashley Nkiwane on Healing, Faith and Finding Her Voice
In this beautiful conversation, I speak with Zimbabwean singer Ashley Nkiwane about music, loss, faith, culture and the healing power of finding your own voice. Ashley’s journey into songwriting began during one of the most difficult moments of her life — the loss of her father. Through grief, she discovered music as a place to express what she was feeling and, ultimately, as a source of strength.
From Vanderbijlpark to the World | Jaco Verwey on Rocking the Vaal, Community & Resilience
Some interviews are personal. This one is especially close to my heart because Vanderbijlpark is my hometown, the place where I was born and grew up, and still the place I return to whenever I am back in South Africa. In this interview, I speak with Jaco Verwey, organiser of Rocking the Vaal and spokesperson for the Golden Triangle Chamber of Commerce, about a town on the banks of the Vaal River,
Nikolay Medvedev: Saying Yes to the Journey
Berlin-based pianist Nikolay Medvedev, originally from Russia, brings together a deep love for the Romantic repertoire with a curiosity for music that crosses boundaries. In this open and honest conversation, Nikolay takes us back to his musical beginnings, his early experience singing in a boys’ choir, and the journey that eventually led him to Berlin. He shares how he built his career in Berlin
Where Nature Meets Music: Dario Doronzo & Livio Minafra
Dario Savino Doronzo, soprano flugelhorn, and Livio Minafra, piano and composition, came together through a shared curiosity for sound, expression and artistic exploration. Both highly acclaimed musicians in their own right, they have created a duo where refined lyricism meets musical exuberance, resulting in a distinctive sound that moves freely between space, dynamics, colour, virtuosity and emo
Willy & The Sheiks: The Sound of Swing, Roots & Rhythm
William Bejedi is the charismatic frontman of Willy & The Sheiks, a seven-piece band bringing swing to life with energy, charm and a fresh twist. I spoke to William just before the band took to the stage at Buskers Bern, one of Switzerland’s biggest street festivals, where their infectious blend of original music and clever re-arrangements of timeless classics was ready to get audiences moving
Creating by Heart: Precious Akindele on Music, Courage and Creativity
In this inspiring conversation, I speak with Precious Akindele, a rising pianist, organist and contemporary classical composer from London. Precious first discovered music at school and, because she is visually impaired, learned many of her piano pieces by ear. She went on to study music at the BRIT School and is now preparing to continue her studies at Trinity Laban. Precious speaks with such ent
The Art Behind the Wine: A Conversation with Renier van Deventer
Winemaking is both a science and an art. It requires knowledge, precision and an understanding of the elements that shape a wine, but also creativity, intuition and a deep connection to the vineyard. In this interview, I speak with Renier van Deventer of Ridgeback Wines about his journey through the wine industry and the many experiences that have shaped him as a cellar Master and winemaker. After
Monica Mhangwana: When Opportunity Meets Perseverance
When I first spoke to South African opera singer Monica Mhangwana in 2022, I was struck by her positive outlook despite the many setbacks she was facing in her career. At the time, she described it as feeling like taking “one step forward and ten steps back.” Little did she know that a new opportunity was about to change the direction of her journey. Monica went on to receive a scholarship to purs
Every Guitar Has a Story: Tom River on Music, Life and Creativity
What happens when a love of music becomes stronger than the career you thought you were meant to have? Australian indie-folk singer-songwriter and producer Tom River, from Margaret River, Western Australia, began his working life in engineering. But music was always there. He started by singing quietly in his room before taking the leap to perform in bars and smaller venues and eventually finding
Sophie Melrose-Doering: Connecting Artists Across Cultures
Music has an extraordinary ability to bring people together, transcending language, geography, and culture. In this conversation, I speak with Sophie Melrose-Doering, Project Officer for Music and International Artistic Exchange at the Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation (VIDC), about the remarkable work of creating meaningful connections through music. Sophie has built her
Dr. Margaret Chisolm on Art, Medicine, and Human Connection
Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Margaret Chisolm has dedicated more than three decades to caring for patients, educating future physicians, and advancing humanistic medical practice. In this thought-provoking conversation, she shares how art museums have become an unexpected but powerful classroom for medical students. As Director of the Paul McHug
Jonas Krause: When Teaching Becomes the Calling
For many young musicians, the dream is to perform on the world's greatest stages. But what happens when you discover your greatest passion lies somewhere else? In this episode of The Artist's Voice, I speak with trumpeter and music educator Jonas Krause about finding the courage to redefine success. Having discovered his love for the trumpet as a child, Jonas pursued an intensive musical education
When Music Becomes Self-Discovery | Nick Anthony
Some artists write songs to entertain. Others write songs to understand themselves—and, in doing so, help others understand themselves too. In this episode of The Artist's Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with emerging singer-songwriter Nick Anthony, whose thoughtful songwriting invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. Born and raised in Majorca, Nick's
Connecting People Through Music | A Conversation with Sebastian Perłowski
There is something deeply inspiring about speaking with artists who understand that music is about far more than notes on a page. In this conversation, I had the pleasure of talking with internationally acclaimed conductor and composer Sebastian Perłowski, whose philosophy is beautifully summed up in his words: "To connect people through music and music through people." A laureate of numerous pres
Ilya Portnov: The Sound, Soul, and Story of the Harmonica
Some instruments seem to find the musician rather than the other way around. That was certainly the case for my guest, harmonica player, composer, and producer Ilya Portnov. Born in Moscow, Russia, Ilya began his musical journey as a pianist, but everything changed as a teenager when, after his family had moved, he unpacked a harmonica that had once belonged to his father. Inspired by friends who
On Stage with the London City Ballet | Maxime Quiroga
Currently performing with the London City Ballet under the artistic direction of Christopher Marney, Maxime Quiroga offers a fascinating insight into what it is like to be part of the company's exciting new chapter. In our conversation, he shares his experience of working with a company that is bringing ballet to new audiences while honouring its rich artistic heritage. Maxime's journey has taken
From Numbers to Notes: Richard Case's Journey to the Pedal Steel Guitar
Richard Case's path into music is anything but conventional. Growing up in South Africa, he pursued a degree in Mathematics at the University of Cape Town rather than formal musical training. It wasn't until he moved to Hamburg that he encountered an instrument that would change the course of his life: the pedal steel guitar. Entirely self-taught, Richard shares the remarkable story of how curiosi
Tobias Hoffmann: Composition, Jazz & Mentorship
Tobias Hoffmann is a multi-award-winning German saxophonist, composer, and arranger whose music bridges the worlds of contemporary big band, European jazz, and the freedom of improvisation. As the leader of his Jazz Orchestra and Nonet, he creates richly textured musical landscapes filled with dramatic storytelling, intricate harmonies, and emotional depth. In this conversation, Tobias reflects on
Alon Sariel Interview | The Mandolin, Bach and Musical Expression
When I first heard a recording of composer Nimrod Borenstein's Mandolin Concerto, I was captivated by the sound of an instrument I had always associated with fairytales and enchanting landscapes. Curious to discover the true voice of the mandolin, I invited Israeli-born, Vienna-based mandolinist, lutenist and conductor Alon Sariel to join me for a conversation about his remarkable musical journey.
Teodor Doré: Composing, Culture, and Renaissance-21
I recently had the pleasure of doing an interview with pianist, composer, and cultural visionary Teodor Doré for what became a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation. Teodor Doré is an internationally acclaimed pianist and composer, as well as the founder of the cultural movement Renaissance-21. His remarkable career has taken him to audiences across six continents, with performances at some
Corinna Rogers: Bringing the Hammered Dulcimer to Nashville's Bluegrass Scene
In this episode of The Artist's Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with hammered dulcimer player Corinna Rogers, an accomplished musician currently based in Nashville, Tennessee, who originally comes from Upper Austria. Corinna shares her fascinating musical journey, which began in Austria where she was first introduced to the hammered dulcimer. She reflects on her early music education and exp
Hui Wen Peng on Joining London City Ballet and Embracing New Opportunities
This week on The Artist's Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with the talented ballet dancer Hui Wen (Winnie) Peng, whose inspiring journey has taken her from Taichung, Taiwan, to some of the world's most respected ballet companies.Winnie began her artistic journey in gymnastics before discovering her passion for ballet. She also trained in Chinese dance, and in our conversation she reflects on
Stepping Into Her Own Spotlight | Susannah B
Susannah B’s journey is one of discovering your voice in your own time. Growing up in New York as the daughter of celebrated composer and lyricist Carol Hall, Susannah was surrounded by the world of musical theatre from an early age. In this heartfelt interview, she reflects warmly on her upbringing and what it was like watching her mother’s creative career unfold firsthand. Although Susannah orig
Matthew Rose on Opera, Mentorship & the Future of Young Singers
Matthew Rose is internationally celebrated as one of the world’s leading opera basses, having performed at some of the most prestigious opera houses including Royal Opera House, Metropolitan Opera, Vienna State Opera, La Scala and the Bavarian State Opera. In this insightful conversation, Matthew speaks openly about the realities of life as an opera singer — the dedication, sacrifice, uncertainty,
The Timeless Language of Form | Adam Williamson Interview
Adam Williamson is an award-winning UK-based sculptor and calligrapher whose work bridges geometry, carving, pattern-making, and timeless design. Trained in calligraphy, geometric design, and stone and wood carving, Adam’s practice is rooted in the study of proportion, tessellation, and the universal patterns found in both nature and architecture. His sculptures and large-scale works have been exh
Art, Music & Storytelling: Christine La Monte’s Vision Through Film
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with producer, director, writer and former film marketing executive Christine La Monte, whose career has included working with major studios such as Universal, Disney and Orion before founding La Monte Productions.Christine shared beautiful memories of growing up in an Italian family in New York, where Sunday sauce at her grandmother’s home became a traditio
Lilit Margaryan: Patience, Passion and the Oboe
Lilit Margaryan a recent graduate of the Anton Bruckner Private University in Linz Austria, where she studied under Peter Tavernaro. In this inspiring interview, Lilit reflects on her journey from growing up in Armenia to pursuing her musical studies abroad, sharing the personal and artistic challenges that shaped her path. Interestingly, Lilit’s introduction to the oboe happened almost by acciden
Creating Home, Creating Memory with Rachel Ashwell - Shabby Chic
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Rachel Ashwell, designer, author, and founder of the iconic Shabby Chic. Rachel shares stories of her childhood in England, growing up surrounded by antiques through her father’s work as a dealer, and the gentle artistry of her mother, who restored antique dolls and bears. These early influences shaped her deep appreciation for beauty, history, a
The Quiet Power of Steven Seidenberg’s Photography: Forgotten Places, Hidden Stories
The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/
Konstanze Wunderle on the History, Soul and Sound of the Banjo
In this interview, I speak with German banjo player Konstanze Wunderle, who shares the story of how she first fell in love with the unique and captivating sound of the banjo. Drawn to its character from the very beginning, Konstanze reflects on what inspired her to pick up the instrument and follow its musical path. She takes us on a journey through the rich and complex history of the banjo, traci
The Power of Choir: Joy of Singing Together with Martin Lorenz
In this conversation, I speak with Martin Lorenz—a passionate singer, vocal coach, and choir facilitator based in Germany—about his innovative One Day Choir project. Martin shares how these unique, one-off choir events invite people of all backgrounds to come together and experience the joy of singing without pressure or expectation. The focus is not on perfection, but on presence—on enjoying the
Creating Beauty Through Sound: A Conversation with Nimrod Borenstein
In this fascinating and deeply insightful interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with composer and conductor Nimrod Borenstein about his latest recording, released at the end of March. Conducting the English Chamber Orchestra, Nimrod brings to life a beautiful and evocative program featuring Shakespeare Songs, a Mandolin Concerto, and an Oboe Concerto. The recording showcases an exceptional lin
The Pulse of Modern Jazz: Meet Miloš Čolović
In this interview, I talk with Serbian-born jazz double bassist Miloš Čolović, whose dynamic presence spans both the Austrian and Serbian jazz scenes. Currently based in Vienna, Miloš is steadily building an international career while completing his master’s studies, following his education at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz. Miloš reflects on his early musical beginnings, which s
The Heart of the Choir: A Conversation with Sinhaeng Lee
In this conversation, I speak with choir conductor Sinhaeng Lee, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Programs at Colgate University, as well as the founder and artistic director of Vox Amicis, a professional ensemble based in Seoul, South Korea. Sinhaeng shares his rich experience working with a wide range of choirs—from youth ensembles to professional singers—and reflects on a par
Music, Movement & Meaning | Hanna Schaubmar on Rhythmics and Cultural Expression.
In this inspiring conversation, I talk with Hanna Schaubmar, a dynamic young artist whose work beautifully bridges music, movement, and cultural expression. Currently studying Rhythmics at MDW – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna through the Erasmus program, Hanna shares insights into a discipline that merges music with body, movement, and dance. Rhythmics is more than a practice—it’s
Pencil Artist Vincent Reid | Wildlife Art, Creative Process & Howick Art Scene
In this inspiring conversation, I talk with pencil artist Vincent Reid, who lives and works in Howick, a small town in the Midlands of South Africa known for its vibrant and ever-growing art and music scene. Vincent reflects on his creative journey, beginning with his art education in Zimbabwe and his early career as an interior designer, before courageously transitioning into life as a full-time
Driven by Music: The Determined Journey of Peter-John Frans
In this inspiring episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with PJ – Peter-John Frans, a passionate jazz keyboard player currently based in Dubai. PJ takes us back to his childhood in Atlantis, South Africa, where music was not just something you listened to — it was something you lived. His mother played a profound role in shaping his musical journey. At home, she encouraged her children to sing to
Between Performance and Perception – The Musical World of Anna Katharina Jakobi
In this inspiring episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Anna Katharina Jakobi, a multi-instrumentalist from Cologne, currently studying at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna. Anna Katharina shares her journey as a young musician deeply committed to both performance and academia. Alongside her studies in Music Education, she is also pursuing Musicology, driven by a genuine cur
Dancing Beyond Borders: Stéphane Dalle and the Courage of Iranian Women
In my recent conversation with Ballet Master Stéphane Dalle, I was reminded once again why art is not a luxury — it is a lifeline.Stéphane’s career has taken him to some of the world’s most respected ballet companies, including the English National Ballet, Boston Ballet, Béjart Ballet Lausanne, and Ballet Frankfurt. Today, he is internationally recognized for teaching the floor barre method develo
John Yao on Trombone, Composition, and the New York Jazz Scene
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I had the great pleasure of speaking with John Yao, a 2025 Guggenheim Fellow in Music Composition and one of the premier trombonists, composers, and arrangers on the New York City jazz scene. John shares the story of how he first picked up the trombone and how his deep love for jazz began to take shape. From his early musical curiosity to immersing himself in
Walter Fischbacher on Touring Europe, Recording, and Jazz Life in NYC
How do you become a full-time jazz musician — and actually make a living from live music? In this inspiring interview, Austrian jazz pianist Walter Fischbacher shares his remarkable journey from classical piano training in Vienna to building a successful jazz career in New York and touring Europe. At just 14 years old, Walter knew he wanted to play live music. That early dream led him from studyin
Learning from the Creative Process – Laura Köönikkä, Founder of Confidants
In this inspiring conversation, I speak with Laura Köönikkä, founder and CEO of Confidants, about her journey between the art world and the business world. Laura shares how discovering art through her childhood nanny shaped her early understanding that art could be a career. Although she explored music and theatre growing up, she always knew she would not become an artist herself. Instead, her pat
Alex Josephson – Architecture Beyond Expectation
In this inspiring conversation, I speak with Alex Josephson, architect and co-founder of the Toronto-based studio PARTISANS. Alex reflects on his early childhood, where creativity was already a driving force in his life. From drawing and pottery to constantly finding new ways to express himself, his artistic instincts were evident from a young age. He speaks warmly about the profound influence of
The Quiet Strength of Trust with Emma Davies
In this interview I speak with Emma Davies, a dancer currently based in Vienna and part of Blue box’s in house annual contemporary dance program, a program that brings together emerging dancers and renowned guest artists in an environment dedicated to training, creation, research, and performance. Emma shares her journey growing up in Barcelona, where her love for dance began very early. She start
Studying Music in Vienna: Miriam Powroslo’s Violinist Journey
In this interview, I speak with Miriam Powroslo, a young violinist whose musical journey is shaped by passion, determination, and a deep sense of purpose. Miriam recently graduated from MUK (Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna) and shares how her love for the violin began at a very young age after hearing the Opole Philharmonic Orchestra, the very orchestra that first sparked her dream
How Art Is Experienced Through the Body: Corinna Kühnapfel on Art, Science, and Embodiment
In this interview, I speak with Corinna Kühnapfel, a cognitive scientist and neuroaesthetics researcher whose work explores how we experience art through the body. Corinna shares how her fascination with science began in early childhood, dreaming of becoming an astronaut, joining a physics after-school club, and joyfully experimenting with science toolkits at home. Alongside this scientific curios
A Hurricane in Heals, Queen Sheba on Spoken Word, Voice, and Creation
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with poet and spoken word artist Queen Sheba, who is currently nominated for a Grammy Award in the spoken word category.In our conversation, we spoke about the two years of focused work, commitment, and creative trust that went into achieving this recognition, as well as her recording A Hurricane in Heals and what she hopes audiences experience when engaging
More Than a Drummer: Joshua Manus on Music, Community, and Purpose
In this inspiring conversation, drummer and composer Joshua Manus shares his musical journey from his early beginnings in Nigeria to building a professional career in Dubai. Joshua reflects on growing up in a deeply musical environment, where the church played a crucial role in shaping his path. Like many Nigerian musicians, his first real opportunity to play music came through church, a space tha
The Period of Light: Levon Avagyan on Transformation, Tradition, and Meaning
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Armenian artist Levon Avagyan, whose artistic journey moves from dark, futuristic philosophical visions to luminous, Renaissance-inspired works rooted in classical technique. Born in Yerevan in 1990, Levon was deeply influenced by his grandfather, Gevorg Avagyan, an Armenian impressionist realist painter. In our conversation, Levon shares vivid m
Five Concertos, One Night – Miruna Maciuca on an Extraordinary Musical Milestone
In this heartfelt conversation, I speak with Romanian pianist Miruna Maciuca from Bucharest about her lifelong relationship with the piano, which began at a very young age. She reflects on the importance of her early teacher, who helped her recognise and develop her individual strengths, and on her studies in Venice, where her artistic path continued to unfold. I am deeply grateful to her piano pr
What Every Aspiring Author Should Know About Writing and Publishing with Dani Rosenblad James
In this inspiring conversation, I speak with award-winning author and writing coach Dani Rosenblad James, who currently lives in Sweden, where she writes and supports others in bringing their own stories to life. Dani’s journey as a writer is closely intertwined with her personal experience of recovery after a traumatic brain injury—an event that profoundly changed her life and ultimately reshaped
Musical Colour on the Flute: Classical & Contemporary | Pablo Carpio Hernández
In this interview, I speak with Vienna-based flutist Pablo Carpio Hernández, who grew up in Spain and began playing the flute at school—an early encounter that quickly grew into a deep and lasting passion. This love for the instrument led him to Vienna, where he studied flute at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (mdw), one of Europe’s leading music institutions. Pablo reflects on
Rob Bailis on Leadership, Music & the Vision Behind BroadStage
Rob Bailis is the Artistic and Executive Director of BroadStage in Santa Monica. A former professional clarinetist, he transitioned from performing to arts leadership, previously serving as Interim Artistic Director and Associate Director of Cal Performances at the University of California, Berkeley, where he curated a wide-ranging international program across music, dance, and theatre.In this int
Business as a Creative Practice: Creativity, Leadership & Human-Centred Thinking | Anna Masalin
In this interview, I speak with Anna Masalin, Managing Director of Tulos in Helsinki, about creativity, education, and leadership in business.With a background in Art History, studied in the UK and shaped by international experiences through the Erasmus programme, Anna reflects on how early cultural exposure influenced her way of thinking and supported her professional journey. She shares insights
Designing for Well-Being: Art, Architecture & Environment with Jenna Mikus
In this interview, I speak with Dr Jenna Mikus, Founder and Managing Partner of the Eudae Group, about the formative experiences that shaped her interdisciplinary path and her deep interest in the relationship between environment, creativity, and well-being. Jenna reflects on her childhood curiosity and her early exposure to many different forms of art, made possible by parents who actively encour
The Expressive Mind: Art, Neuroscience, and Education with Dwaynica Greaves
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Dwaynica Greaves – a Neuroaesthetician, Neuroscientist, and creative thinker whose work sits at the powerful intersection of art, science, and education.Dwaynica shares her early background in the arts, reflecting on a lifelong love for drama and theatre, alongside creative writing, poetry, and reading. For her, words have always carried a deep e
Where Sport Meets Art: Gary Smith’s Journey from Olympics to Cirque du Soleil
In this inspiring episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Gary Smith — one of the most accomplished male trampoline gymnasts in British history. Gary achieved a historic 7th place at the 2004 Olympic Games and earned two European team bronze medals, marking him as a true standout in the world of trampolining. Gary shares how he first discovered his passion for trampolining and opens up about t
Marc Sabbah on Bach, the Viola & the Art of Musical Connection
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I talk to acclaimed violist Marc Sabbah, based in Belgium. In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Marc shares insights from his recent concert tour in Japan, reflecting on the unique energy of Japanese audiences and the artistic growth that travel inspires. He gives insight in his newest recording project: the complete Six Bach Cello Sonatas, which he ar
The Quiet Power of Graphite: South African Artist Lizl Bode on Her Creative Process
n this conversation, I speak with South African artist Lizl Bode, a self-taught creator from Cape Town known for her photorealistic monochrome works in graphite and technical ink. Lizl’s art is celebrated for its precision, emotional depth, and the way she elevates ordinary objects and portraits through careful observation. We talk about her studio, the place where she feels most at home and where
Healing Through Music: The Transformation of Miyabi Matsuoka
In this interview, I speak with Miyabi Matsuoka, a Japanese harpist based in Vienna whose powerful personal journey is transforming the way musicians relate to their art. Miyabi began playing the harp at 12, guided by her mother, also a harpist who encouraged her to strive for excellence. She went on to win numerous competitions and build an impressive musical career. But the intense pressure to b
The Power of Music Psychology: Conversation with Dr. Michelle Ulor
In today’s episode of The Artist’s Voice, I’m joined by the brilliant Michelle Ulor — music psychologist, DJ, radio host, writer, and the founder of Kinos Studio, a pioneering music-psychology consultancy transforming how brands, teams and spaces use music. Michelle holds a PhD in Music Psychology, with a career that bridges both academia and industry. Her research, publications, and international
How Neuroaesthetic Design Transforms Lives: A Conversation with Rose Tanjoco
In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with interior designer Rose Tanjoco, whose personal journey led her to the field of Neuroaesthetic Interior Design long before she knew the term existed. Rose began experimenting with design in the early 1990s, transforming her own home into a healthier, more nurturing environment for her family. When her daughter developed health and emotional challe
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