The Mind Over Finger Podcast
The Mind Over Finger Podcast explores mindful music-making, efficient practice, and building a purposeful career in classical music. Host Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier interviews performers, pedagogues, and innovators who share insights on practicing mindfully, performing optimally, and creating a fulfilling musical career. The podcast provides tools to shift from unconscious to deliberate practice and from routine to artistic flow.
Episodes
266 The Long Game of Musical Growth - Ben Ullery on Curiosity, Learning, and Performing at the Highest Level
Ben Ullery, Principal Viola of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, joins me for a thoughtful conversation about curiosity, lifelong learning, and what it takes to keep growing as a musician while performing at the highest level. In this episode, we explore: Why curiosity is one of a musician's greatest assets What happens after you land your dream job The role of visualization in performance
265 The Art of Pacing - Elizabeth Svoboda on Flow, Recovery, and Sustainable Excellence
What if the goal isn't to work harder, but to find the right pace? In this episode, I talk with science writer Elizabeth Svoboda, author of The Art of Pacing, about flow, energy management, recovery, and the habits that help high performers sustain excellence without burning out. You'll hear about: • Why pacing matters more than most people realize • How to create the conditions for flow in practi
264 You Don't Need More Time - How To Perform Under Pressure When Preparation Feels Impossible
What happens when the audition is closer than you expected and the preparation feels impossible? In this episode, I'm talking about how to handle high pressure performance situations when time is short, nerves are high, and your brain keeps telling you it's not enough. We dive into mindset, performance psychology, nervous system regulation, and the surprising ways urgency can actually work in your
263 What Winning The Audition Actually Took - My 90 Days of Preparation, Performance Training, And Building Trust Under Pressure
What does it actually take to win a major orchestra audition? In this deeply personal episode, I take you behind the scenes of my winning audition for the Lyric Opera Orchestra at 47 years old. I'm sharing the real preparation process, the mental work, the conditioning, and the mindset shifts that carried me through 90 days of intense preparation and into the audition room. In this episode: • How
262 From Battling Doubt To Dancing With It -How Robert Sanders Learned To Trust Himself Under Pressure
What if confidence is not the absence of doubt? In this deeply honest conversation, violinist Robert Sanders shares what changed internally as he navigated auditions, pressure, comparison, and eventually won a full time position with the Bruckner Orchestra Linz. This episode is not about becoming fearless. It's about learning how to stop fighting yourself so aggressively underneath the pressure. I
261 You Can Play Better Than This - Why You Don't Sound Like Yourself Under Pressure
You know that feeling when you walk off stage thinking, "I can play so much better than this"? In this episode, I unpack three powerful patterns I saw during the Musicians Edge Challenge with more than 300 musicians and why so many performers lose access to themselves under pressure even when they've prepared brilliantly. In this episode: • Why your best playing can feel impossible to recreate on
260 The Journey to Winning — How Marie-Michel Beauparlant Reclaimed Her Confidence and Her Career
If you've ever stood in the wings before a performance and wondered how you got there — not in a good way — this episode is for you. Marie-Michel Beauparlant is an accomplished cellist, a mom of twins, and one of the most honest guests we've had on the show. She talks about the years she spent hiding behind section playing because solo performing felt impossible, the guilt of chasing an audition
259 Why Trying Harder Makes It Worse - The Hidden Cognitive Habit That's Sabotaging Your Best Work
You know that feeling when you nail a passage in rehearsal, and then the harder you try to repeat it, the faster it falls apart? In this solo episode, Dr. Renée-Paule reveals why the desire to play well is often the very thing getting in your way. This one hits close to home for any musician who has ever spiraled mid-performance wondering why their preparation suddenly feels like it vanished. ·
258 The Audition You've Been Capable of All Along - The Missing Piece Most Audition Prep Completely Skips
You've prepared the excerpts. You've done the mock auditions. You've done everything right — and something still slips when it matters most. In this episode, Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier gets to the heart of what's actually separating the players who walk off feeling like themselves from the ones who walk off wondering what just happened. The answer isn't what you think — and it's more within your rea
257 The Practice Room Lie: Why Pressure Hijacks Your Performance, and What to Do About It
You practiced it a thousand times. You knew it cold. And then you walked on stage and something vanished. If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. Renee breaks down one of the most frustrating and misunderstood experiences in a musician's life: the gap between how you play in the practice room and how you play under pressure. More importantly, she explains exactly why it happens and why p
256 Strong Body, Fearless Stage - Shannon Kiewitt on How Movement Builds the Confidence to Perform at Your Best
What if the thing holding back your performance had nothing to do with how many hours you practice? Gunnery Sergeant Shannon Kiewitt, clarinetist with "The President's Own" United States Marine Band and fitness coach for musicians, has spent years performing at the highest level without a single performance-related injury. In this conversation, she shares exactly how fitness transforms not just yo
255 Working Hard and Going Nowhere? How to break the cycle that's keeping you stuck.
You're putting in the hours. You're showing up. So why does it still feel like nothing is moving? This episode gets right to the heart of that frustration and offers a way out. In this episode: · Why repetition without intention reinforces the problem, not the solution · The real difference between practicing notes and practicing performance · How the inner critic sile
254 Finding Your Way Back to Playing - Gabriel Radford on rebuilding after fear, injury, and loss of control
If you've ever felt your body work against you in a performance, if tension, fear, or a loss of control has crept into your playing and you don't know why, and if you've wondered whether it can actually get better, this episode is for you. Gabriel Radford, Third Horn of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, was diagnosed with focal dystonia at the height of his career. He came back playing better than b
253 Your Pep Talk for When Things Feel Heavy - A reminder for musicians navigating comparison, doubt, and the ups and downs of growth
You walk out of a rehearsal replaying every mistake. You sit down to practice and the voice in your head says, it should be better by now. You open Instagram and somehow everyone else seems more confident, more established, further along. This episode is for that moment. Renée shares a short, honest pep talk for musicians navigating doubt and the uncomfortable gap between where they are and where
252 Learning to Trust Yourself as a Musician: Juliana Athayde on betting on yourself, leading with humanity, and performing without fear.
Concertmaster Juliana Athayde shares the mindset shifts and life choices that shaped her career, from betting on herself early on to leading an orchestra and building a full life beyond the practice room. In this conversation, we explore: • The leap of faith that led her to turn down a dream job and invest in herself • What great orchestral leadership actually looks like beyond playing well • Why
251 Your Heart Is Racing. Now What? The "Yes, And" trick that turns nerves into focus
When your heart is racing and your brain starts whispering "don't mess this up," it's easy to think the goal is to shut the thoughts down. But that fight is often the thing that turns normal pre performance activation into full anxiety. In this short episode, I borrow the first rule of improv, "Yes, and," and show you how to use it as a musician. Not to become fearless, but to stay in the music ev
250 Yoga for All Musicians: Brianne Borden and Claire Howard on nervous system care, the power of community, and a more humane way to make music
When the world feels heavy and your body is bracing, it is weirdly easy to start treating music like it has to justify itself. You practice anyway. You show up anyway. But inside, you are carrying pressure, tension, and that quiet question most musicians do not say out loud: how do I keep doing this without burning out or breaking down? In Episode 250, I sit down with Dr. Brianne Borden and Claire
249 You're Not Behind. You're Overloaded. How Unrealistic Expectations Hijack Your Brain and What to Do Instead
In this episode, we unpack how unrealistic expectations quietly overload your brain, tighten your body, and slow your progress. And more importantly, how to reset them so they actually work for you. You'll learn: • Why high standards are not the problem but misaligned expectations are • How pressure and perfectionism interfere with learning • A simple expectation audit you can use before practice
248 Bill Denton: Forget the Timeline - The Path Is Yours to Build - What Every Musician Needs to Hear About Age, Timing, and the Long Game
What if your path takes longer than you thought it would? What if you don't win the job straight out of school. Or even straight out of your twenties? And what if that's not failure, but just a different kind of success? In this episode, I sit down with Bill Denton, Principal Trumpet of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, to talk about what it really means to stay in the game. Bill won his job at 50. Befo
247 Tired of Forcing Yourself to Practice? The Mental Reset That Gets You Back Into Practice Gently
When practicing feels impossible, it's not because you're lazy or undisciplined. In this episode, I walk you through the simple mindset shifts and practical strategies that help you stop pushing and start showing up with more ease, clarity, and self-respect. You'll learn: · Why waiting for motivation doesn't work · A five-step mental reset to ease into practice · How to
246 Brad Stulberg: The Way of Excellence - The Secret to What It Really Takes to Thrive
What does it really take to grow as an artist without burning out? In this powerful conversation, I'm joined by bestselling author and performance expert Brad Stulberg to explore what excellence actually means, and how we can pursue it in a way that feels deeply fulfilling, not exhausting. Brad's new book, The Way of Excellence, offers a grounded and practical roadmap for anyone looking to sustain
245 Long-Term Growth vs. Short-Term Pressure: Why Trying to Master Everything Is Slowing You Down and How to Fix It
Are you juggling big technique goals and an upcoming performance? Struggling to fix your vibrato while also cramming notes for an audition? You're not alone, and you're not doing it wrong. In this episode, we unpack why chasing long-term mastery and short-term perfection at the same time can leave you overwhelmed, stuck, and second-guessing everything. You'll learn: · How to separate grow
244 One Sentence to Change Your Year: How to turn resistance into real momentum
If you've ever had one of those days where you know what you should do, but everything in you wants to procrastinate, avoid, or zone out... this episode is for you. I'm sharing one of my favorite mindset tools: a simple sentence structure you can use when motivation is low, when self-doubt is loud, or when you just feel stuck. It's a trick I return to again and again to get myself into action and
243 You're Closer Than You Think: The Mindset Shift That Will Move the Needle
In this solo episode, Dr. Gauthier breaks down a powerful mindset shift that can transform your musical growth and career. If you're tired of working harder and still feeling stuck, this is the episode for you. 🎯 In this episode, you'll learn: · Why the "do, have, be" model keeps musicians burned out and unfulfilled · What the "be, do, have" approach looks like in real practice
242 Tim Higgins: The Long Game Every Musician Needs to Play - Winning the Job, Finding Your Sound, and Staying Inspired
In this inspiring backstage pass conversation, Tim Higgins, principal trombone of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and acclaimed composer, arranger, and educator, shares the real work behind long-term success in music. Whether you're preparing for auditions or building artistic depth in your playing, this episode offers mindset shifts and practical tools you can apply today. In this episode, you'll
241 Beyond the Practice Room: What Four Top Experts Want You to Know About Performance
In this special episode, recorded live at New World Symphony's Wellness Week, four leading voices in musician wellness come together to share powerful strategies for navigating the mental, physical, and emotional demands of a music career. You'll learn: · How to recover from a tough performance without spiraling into shame or self-doubt · The mindset shift that separates your id
240 You're Not Unmotivated, You're Believing the Wrong Thing: How to Reclaim Your Focus, Confidence, and Momentum
In this episode, you'll learn: Why your current beliefs—not your ability—might be the real reason behind lack of motivation or progress How to spot the subtle thoughts that quietly shape your practice habits and performance results A powerful mindset shift that helps musicians move from self-doubt to self-trust The truth about where limiting beliefs come from—and how to start letting th
239 Randall Goosby: Play With Purpose - Expression, Identity, and Musical Impact
In this inspiring conversation, violinist Randall Goosby shares how he balances technical mastery with deep artistic purpose. He offers insight into the mindset, values, and strategies that have shaped his unique approach to music-making—and how you can bring more meaning into your own playing. In this episode, you'll hear about: · The shift from performance perfection to performance pur
238 Calm Under Pressure – The 3-Pillar Strategy to Beat Performance Anxiety and Play Your Best
Learn a clear, actionable framework to help you manage performance anxiety and play with confidence. · The 3 pillars: preparation, conditioning, and mind management · Why traditional advice doesn't work · How to train your nervous system to support you · What to include in your practice for real performance readiness If you're ready to hit the ground run
237 Shift Your Results - The Simple Tool That Transforms Your Practice and Performance
Discover how to use the Self-Coaching Model to better understand your mindset, manage your emotions, and create lasting progress in your music. · Why mindset shapes your practice results · How to break the cycle of overwhelm and procrastination · The link between thoughts, feelings, actions, and outcomes · A clear tool to move from stuck to focused If you're
236 Master Your Mind – The Framework Musicians Need to Break Through
In this episode, you'll learn a simple and powerful mindset tool that helps you understand and shift the thoughts, feelings, and actions that shape your musical results. · The five-part Self-Coaching Model explained · Why your thoughts, not circumstances, drive your outcomes · How to build awareness and take intentional action · A clear method to create calm, cl
235 Sustainable Progress – 5 Practice Shifts That Prevent Burnout and Boost Results
This episode explores five mindset and strategy shifts that help you stay energized, focused, and motivated in your musical journey. · How overcommitting drains progress · Turning comparison into clarity · Why trying to impress holds you back · The value of giving yourself more prep time · Simple ways to bring joy back into your practice If you're ready
234 Clear the Block – 5 Mistakes That Derail Even Smart Musicians
This episode explores five common practice pitfalls that can quietly sabotage your progress — and how to overcome them with clarity and confidence. · Why self-awareness is key to real growth · How to set a plan that aligns with your goals · The role of time management in building momentum · When learning becomes avoidance · How to build self-trust and s
233 From Bully to Ally - Transform Your Inner Critic Into Your Strongest Tool in Practice and Performance
This episode explores how harsh self-talk holds you back and how practicing self-compassion can unlock real progress. · Why judgment creates tension and slows learning · The difference between helpful assessment and harmful self-criticism · Simple mindset shifts to quiet your inner critic · How to stay focused, clear, and motivated in the practice room I
232 Grounded Practice – The Practice Strategy That Accelerates Real Growth Reset & Rise Series #4
In this episode, we explore the overlooked superpower of patience and how slowing down can actually speed up your progress. · Learn how urgency can sabotage your practice · Discover the mindset that turns frustration into focus · Build stronger, more reliable skills under pressure · Use grounded practice to boost clarity, consistency, and confidence If y
231 Practicing Isn't Working? – What You're Missing and How to Fix It
In this episode, we explore the concept of "Mind Over Finger" — aligning your mind before taking physical action. · Discover how mental, emotional, and intellectual alignment boosts progress · Learn how myelination impacts your practice outcomes · Replace mindless repetition with intentional, effective strategies · Apply the deep practice model with awareness an
230 Stuck in Practice? How Joy Unlocks Focus, Progress, and Consistency - Reset & Rise Series #2
In this episode, I share powerful takeaways from 13 renowned performers and educators, including Rachel Barton Pine, Tom Hooten, Kim Kashkashian, Vijay Gupta, and Elizabeth Rowe. Discover how world-class musicians use joy, curiosity, and presence to stay focused, avoid burnout, and make meaningful progress. You'll walk away with practical tips and mindset shifts you can apply to your own practice
229 Joy-Driven Practice – Reignite Your Practice with Curiosity, Calm, and Creativity - Your Reset & Rise Series #1
This episode kicks off the Reset and Rise summer transformation series with the Joyful Practice Challenge. You'll explore simple prompts designed to help you reconnect with presence, boost effectiveness, and bring more curiosity, calm, and creativity into your practice. If your playing has felt heavy or disconnected, this is the reset you've been looking for. If you're ready to hit the ground
228 Not Ready Yet? What Musicians Miss When They Wait to Leap
In this episode, we explore one of the biggest mindset blocks musicians face: the belief that you're not ready. I break down why waiting for readiness keeps you stuck and how taking action before you feel 100% prepared is often the key to growth. You'll learn: · Why "I'm not ready" is usually fear in disguise · What it really looks like to take action before you feel prepared ·
227 Hijacked by Fear – What to Do When Your Mind Turns Against You On Stage
In this episode, we explore why overthinking and fear take over in performance, even when you're fully prepared. You'll learn what's really happening in your brain under pressure, why trying to fight fear often makes it worse, and what you can do to build trust in yourself again. If you've ever felt like your own mind is your biggest obstacle on stage, this episode is for you. And if if you're t
226 Stuck or Soaring? What Musicians Gain When They Bet on Themselves
In this episode, I explore one of the most important (and most avoided) questions musicians face: Is investing in yourself really worth it? You'll hear: How to tell the difference between an expense and an investment The hidden cost of staying stuck Why self-investment often leads to faster, deeper growth Real stories from clients who hesitated and what changed when they said yes The mindset shif
225 Beyond the Notes – Nikki Chooi on Musicality, Adaptability, and Artistic Growth
In this episode, violinist Nikki Chooi shares how he rebuilt trust in his playing after formal training, refined his approach to practicing, and found balance between precision and expression in performance. We talk about: How to blend slow and fast practice effectively The role of "adversity training" in audition preparation Practicing musicality with intention What changes when you
224 Stage Freeze – Why Everything You Know Disappears Under Pressure
You've practiced the techniques. You've done the mindset work. But when it's time to perform, everything seems to disappear. In this episode, I explore why musicians often struggle to access what they know under pressure and what to do about it. You'll learn: Why your tools vanish in performance, even when you know they work How over-focusing on control can disconnect you from the music The re
223 Unlock Your Edge – Discover the Reflection Practice That Transforms How You Perform
If you've ever felt stuck, even though you know what to do, this episode is for you. I'm sharing the five key prompts from The Musician's Edge Challenge that have helped hundreds of musicians gain clarity, uncover what's holding them back, and perform with more confidence. In this episode, you'll explore: A moment when your playing felt effortless and what it reveals about your potential
222 When Practice Isn't Fun Anymore - What to Do When Music Stops Feeling Inspiring
In this episode, I share a personal story about preparing for a major event—and struggling to find joy in the process. We explore: Why it's normal to feel disconnected from familiar repertoire How to stay motivated when the spark is gone A mindset shift to help you keep showing up Practical tools to bring freshness back into your practice How reconnecting to your purpose can carry y
221 Nina DeCesare: Beyond the Notes - Practicing with Purpose and Building a More Inclusive Future
In this episode, bassist and educator Nina DeCesare shares the mindset and strategies that have helped her build a confident and fulfilling career in music. We explore what it means to practice with purpose, prepare for high-stakes performances, and create lasting change in the industry. Nina also talks about the Artemis Bass Initiative and how it's supporting women and non-binary bassists thr
220 Practice Isn't Enough – The Real Reason Your Performances Feel Inconsistent
You're putting in the work, but something's not clicking when it counts. Why does your playing still feel inconsistent—even though you're practicing hard? In this episode, I'm bringing two essential mindset and training shifts to the forefront—because these are the mistakes that keep talented musicians stuck, and the changes that help them finally break through. We'll cover: Why "more practice" i
219 Jarrett McCourt: You Career, Your Rules – Creating a Life in Music That Works for You
Many musicians feel stuck in a single career path, believing that success means following a traditional trajectory. But what if true success is about expanding, not staying locked into one role? In this episode, tubist Jarrett McCourt shares his journey from performing with world-class orchestras to building a career and life that align with his values. We discuss: Why career pivots aren't
218 The Truth About Confidence - What Every Musician Needs to Know
You practice, you prepare, but when it's time to perform, your confidence vanishes. Why does this happen? In this episode, we break down the biggest myths about confidence that might be holding you back. You'll learn: Why confidence isn't something you're born with—it's something you build How common misconceptions make confidence feel harder than it needs to be A simple mindset shift t
217 Nancy Zhou: Artistry Unlocked - Storytelling Through Sound
In this episode, violinist Nancy Zhou shares her deep, thoughtful approach to music-making. She explores: How interpretation goes beyond technique to storytelling The importance of score study and stepping into the composer's mind How body awareness and movement shape musical expression What musicians can learn from dancers and storytellers The philosophy behind her upcoming album, Sto
216 What's Holding You Back in the Practice Room – And How to Fix It
Struggling to see results from your practice? In this episode, we uncover why traditional practice methods often fall short and how a simple mindset shift can unlock real progress. What you'll learn: The biggest mistake musicians make in the practice room How judgment blocks improvement and what to do instead A mindset shift that makes practice more effective What top musicians do dif
215 Beyond Potential: Re-Assess, Re-Define, & Re-Ignite your Career with Career & Mindset Coach Kate Kayaian
Have you ever felt like you've outgrown the career path you once dreamed of? In this episode, I sit down with Kate Kayaian—career and mindset coach, podcast host, and author of Beyond Potential. We explore how musicians and creatives can reassess their careers, redefine success, and reignite their passion for their craft. Kate shares her own journey of stepping away from a traditional classica
214 10x Your Practice Results—Without Practicing More
More hours in the practice room don't always lead to better results. In this episode, discover a simple, science-backed 3-step method to make every practice session more effective—without adding extra time. You'll learn how to: Use priming to sharpen focus and set clear intentions Implement micro rests to improve retention and prevent mental fatigue Leverage Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) t
213 The Key to Confidence on Stage (It's Not What You Think!)
Why do you sound great in the practice room but struggle on stage? In this episode, we explore: Why performances feel so different from practice How your nervous system reacts under pressure The key mistake musicians make in preparation A five-step method to perform with confidence Learn how to bridge the gap between practice and performance so you can play your best when it matter
212 Goals Fading? 3 Secrets to Stay on Track and Win Big
In this episode, we tackle the common challenge of losing momentum with your goals. Whether it's the start of the year or halfway through a big project, staying on track can feel overwhelming. I share three key strategies to help you: Build confidence and trust in your ability to follow through. Develop small, impactful habits that keep you moving forward. Revisit the fundamentals to cr
211 From Struggle to Success in 2 Minutes: The Power Reset Ritual
In this episode, I introduce the Power Reset Ritual—a simple, 5-step tool to help you calm your mind, regain focus, and reconnect with your power when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. What You'll Learn: How the Power Reset Ritual was created and how it works. The 5 steps to calm your nervous system, ground yourself, and take actionable steps. Why this ritual can transform your moments of frustratio
210 Overwhelm Solved: Your New Productivity Superpower
Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and to-do lists? In this episode, I introduce the Eisenhower Matrix, a simple yet powerful framework to help you prioritize effectively and regain control of your time and energy. What You'll Learn: Why not all tasks are created equal and how to focus on what truly matters. The four categories of the Eisenhower Matrix: Do Now, Schedule, Delegate, and D
209 Performance Superpower: Gratitude
In this episode, I share how gratitude can transform the way you approach music. We'll explore: Why gratitude isn't just a feel-good concept—it's a powerful mindset for growth. How gratitude shifts focus from frustration to possibility. Real-life examples of how gratitude boosts motivation, builds resilience, and fosters confidence. Plus, I'll walk you through a quick 3-minute gratitud
208 Get Unstuck: Make Decisions with Confidence
Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we're tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We'll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that's right for you. I'll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—to help you make decisions that bring you closer
207 Zlatomir Fung: Flow, Fundamentals, and Fearless Performance
In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music. We discuss: The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation Strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and staying grounded i
206 Life Changing Thoughts: Four Powerful Sentences That Changed My Life
In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life's complexities. If you're interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can create meaningful change in both personal and profess
205 Sasha Romero: From Texas to the Met – Chat on Mastery, Mindfulness, and Advocacy
In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met. Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with life as a performer and educator, and her unique ap
204 The One Feeling to Shape Your Success
In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss: Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mindset to achieve their goals Practical
203 Molly Gebrian: Learn Faster, Perform Better
In this episode, I'm joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician's Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing. We discuss: The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance The role of errors in learning Internal vs. external focus in performance The power of mental practice and personalized routines The benef
202 Lara St. John: Creating Change: Ensuring Safety & Equity in Classical Music
A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone by being transparent, and having clear steps to
201 Why You're Stuck & How to Break Free
Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward? Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you! In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place: Lack of clear vision and goals Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present Fear of making decisions Worrying about judgmen
200 Mastery, Mindfulness & Music
Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator. Additionally, we cover: My perspectives on performance anxiety and finding joy in music through mindfulnes
199 Rob Knopper: Audition Hacker
Conversation with Rob Knopper, percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and audition expert, creator of Audition Hacker. You'll hear about how he painstakingly developed his process (through trials and errors, and lots of reflection), his method to prepare for an audition, and the specifics of how to record yourself for maximum results. Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Disc
198 How to Create Anything You Want – Part 2
In this episode of "Mastering the Stage" Part 2, we build on the foundational strategies from Part 1 to further enhance your project planning and execution. We discuss: · Avoiding common planning and execution errors. · Effectively assessing data and setting realistic, balanced goals. · Enhancing mindset and self-awareness to overcome artistic challenges. Tune in to refi
197 How to Create Anything You Want
In this transformative episode, I share powerful strategies that will revolutionize your planning and goal pursuit: Discover what's been missing in your planning. Learn the key elements that will change everything for you. Understand what works and what doesn't in achieving your goals. Find out how to create real, lasting motivation. Get access the entire workshop - including detailed works
196 Jalayne Mitchell: Classical Wellness
In this episode, I'm joined by Jalayne Mitchell, founder of Classical Wellness, to discuss key issues surrounding mental health in the music industry. Our conversation covers a range of topics including: The impact of trauma on musicians. Holistic approaches to music careers. Managing self-doubt. The importance of setting healthy boundaries. Business insights and self-discovery in music. B
195 Katherine Emeneth: Build & Grow Your Music Career
Today's discussion features Dr. Katherine Emeneth, a multifaceted artist in flute performance, collaboration, education, and pedagogy. Key points include: Being intentional about your choices when you're building your career The future of musicians' careers with a portfolio approach. The need to develop multiple skills to grow your career Overcoming self-doubt as you go about your journey The imp
194 Gloria Lum: Audition Confidential
Gloria Lum, cellist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic & founder of Audition Confidential shares insight on profound audition preparation techniques, talks about the significance of mindset in musical performance, and offers pragmatic practice tips. Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT GLORIA LUM Web
193 Conditioning for YOUR Ideal Performance
In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, we explore the art of conditioning for optimal musical performance. Join us as we uncover practical strategies to bridge the gap between practice and stage, empowering musicians to excel in high-pressure situations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, these insights will help you unleash your full potential
192 Lynn Kuo: Positivity, Resilience, & Musical Mastery
In this episode, I bring you a conversation with violinist Lynn Kuo, Assistant Concertmaster of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra and Founder/CEO of Violin with Dr. Lynn. We covered topics such as: The impact a supportive teacher has on a student Performance psychology Improving our playing through mindfulness and self-awareness Practicing with a scientific approach Cultivating positivity
191 David Radzynski: Insights from the Concertmaster's Chair
Conversation with David Radzynski, concertmaster of The Cleveland Orchestra, covering topics such his practice habits, violin technique, managing repertoire efficiently, overcoming doubts, and the importance of self-awareness and kindness in our musical journey. Tune in for inspiration for your practice! Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript
190 Practicing for YOUR Ideal Performance
In this episode, we're diving deep into the art of "Practicing for YOUR Ideal Performance." We explore crucial concepts and ideas surrounding effective practice, tackle common practicing problems, uncover the basic principles of mindful and efficient practice, and you'll get four effective practicing techniques to start implementing today. Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Ma
189 Austin Pancner: The Functional Musician
In this episode, Austin Pancner, founder of The Functional Musician, discusses musician injuries—why they happen, prevention strategies, and recovery steps. Gain insights into holistic wellness tailored for musicians. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT AUSTIN PANCNER Website: https://www.thefunctionalmusician.com/ You
188 Drew Forde: The Extra-Classical Musician
Explore the future of classical music, dive into industry growth, and redefine your role as a musician with Drew Forde, That Viola Kid. Drew shares insights on navigating the classical music industry's business landscape, sparking creativity through music education, and much more. Join the journey of growth in the creator economy and discover the limitless possibilities in the world of music. B
187 Planning for YOUR Ideal Performance
Everything you need to plan for a stellar performance: Dive into the secrets of dream performance planning Uncover why we sometimes fall short of our best Explore the power of crystal-clear vision and how to get it How to organize your preparation process Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Visit MindOverF
Recommended
This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von
Stand In The Circle
Conspiracy Files with Paige Carter
Learn English B1 with Daily News | English Listening Practice
Bad Friends
The Swerve Podcast: Obscure Topics | Conspiracy Theories
The Bread and Banter Podcast
The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament
Deadline: White House
English Vocabulary Help
این نقطه
Solved Murders - True Crime Stories
