Marcello DeFrancesco interviews Christian Howes as research for his PHD in music education. They discuss questions related to improvisation, nuances of learning techniques, the influence of genres like Jazz on improvisation, and the critical ro

Jazz Violin vs Classical Violin: the difference in Bowing Technique

Feb 29th, 2024 28m 45s

Violin bow techniques vary between classical and jazz violin playing- listen to learn why it's important to know them both. Follow Dr. Lynn Kuo at her wonderful Youtube Channel @violynnkuo Our discussion reveals insight into bow usage, arti

Secrets of Versatile High-Functioning Musicians

Dec 1st, 2023 15m 19s

In this episode, Christian Howes dives deep into strategies for musicians to master their craft more effectively. Addressing both teachers and players, he provides a comprehensive seven-week program designed to elevate your musical prowess. Fro

Overfill Your Orchestra: How Orchestra Teacher Angela Harman runs a Thriving Orchestra Class

Oct 5th, 2023 34m 4s

Orchestra teachers- get the exact tactics used by renowned orchestra teacher Angela Harman to Overfill her classroom program, retain students, assess, and more as she delves into her effective strategies on how to attract and retain music stude

A String Quartet that Grooves w/ Quartet Davis

Jul 16th, 2023 1h 24m

In this episode I sit down with Emily Edelstein, Molly Tucker, Camille Vogley-Howes, and Karl Henry from Quartet Davis, an exciting string quartet pushing the boundaries of classical, folk, jazz, and pop music. We discuss their debut album, “Th

3 Keys to redesign your practice & become a more Functional Musician

Jun 19th, 2023 17m 19s

To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Wtg32uHwnooLearn three powerful changes you can make to your practice routine to become a more functional musician. Instead of playing classical etudes, you can do improvised scales/exer

How to Learn & Remember Chord Progressions to the Songs and Tunes You Play

Apr 4th, 2023 7m 2s

To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Vo3BB7Z2Z_U Three simple but powerful methods that will help you overcome the limitation of only playing melodies. Gain the ability to accompany others on songs. Learn Why it's important

Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) Therapy w/ Joyu Lee + Mindfulness for musicians.

Feb 6th, 2023 1h 19m

Therapist, pianist and cellist Joyu Lee shares her expertise in Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) therapy, plus mindfulness and how it can benefit musicians. You can follow her work on Instagram at @musicandyourmind. Learn more at https://www.musi

Music Teachers: Cultivating Excellence & Self Care w/ Adrian Gordon

Jan 9th, 2023 36m 4s

Developing excellence and improved self-care for music teachers. Our guest Adrian Gordon has taught classroom music for 18 years. His new book "Note to Self" explores how to make successful transitions for music teachers. Learn more about Adri

Bluegrass Fiddle Tricks & Licks ; Magic Bluegrass Scale with Justin Branum

Dec 23rd, 2022 18m 23s

Learn secrets of how to play bluegrass fiddle and more with Justin Branum - in this video we use the Magic Bluegrass scale as it relates to tunes like June Apple. June Apples are small and oblong, with a brisk taste that's unusual for early

How to Amplify Violin Viola or Cello w/ Matt Bell of Electric Violin Shop

Dec 8th, 2022 43m 44s

How to amplify the violin and get a good sound. Electric violin vs acoustic violin. Pickups vs amplifiers. Electric Violin Effects, how to use loops for violin, and related gear for violin, viola, and cello, are answered in this interview wit

Showing up and serving your community with Dr. Quinton Morris

Nov 9th, 2022 1h 5m

In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, Chris talks to educator and violinist, Dr. Quinton Morris about his non-profit work, Key to Change, entrepreneurship, and combating racism in classical music.https://www.keytochangestudio.org/

Resourcing tuition-free string teaching programs w/ Violinist/Pastor John "Adidam" Littlejohn

Jul 20th, 2022 55m 19s

John "Adidam" Littlejohn shares how he resources his high-level tuition-free string camp www.stringbootcamp.com and how he balances/approaches life as a minister, educator, and violinist.00:00 Intro00:52 Thrive City String Bootcamp05:39 Ad

Opportunities for Musicians to Thrive in the Health Space with Aaron Colverson

Jun 14th, 2022 47m 10s

In this episode, Chris talks to violinist and PhD-candidate Aaron Colverson about his musical journey and areas where musicians can impact the health space.00:00 Intro01:14 Opportunities for musicians in the health space04:55 Are there ways

The Role of Artists in War; How One Ukrainian Violinist Copes & Supports His Country

Mar 4th, 2022 27m 47s

Violinist Kostia Lukyniuk shares his perspective from Ukraine.Find the full show notes here: https://christianhowes.com/2022/03/04/creative-strings-podcast-episode-49-the-role-of-artists-during-war-with-ukranian-violinist-kostia-lukyniuk/Ukra

Electric Violin Pioneer Karen Briggs and the Music of Edgar Redmond.

Mar 3rd, 2022 1h 5m

In this special interview, the legendary pioneering violinist Karen Briggs shares how she has approached her incredible career- and there are so many great stories she shares. Also, we’ll hear new recordings of music composed by Michael Redmon

Balancing Musical Goals and incorporating creativity in the Orchestra Classroom with Austin Scelzo

Jan 18th, 2022 51m 6s

How to teach more to your students without burning out? How to prioritize your own musical goals without sacrificing too much of your time. The key is a Flexible mindset and Creative strategies to get the balance you want. Austin Scelzo is a

Bonus

How to Become a More Confident & Happy Musician

Jan 4th, 2022 15m 44s

5 ways to help improve your relationship with music and the thing at the core of it all. Get my free masterclass at www.christianhowes.com/education

Teaching Adult Violin Students With Marlene Cruz Lozano

Nov 15th, 2021 48m 36s

Marlene Cruz Lozano shares insights for adult violin students and teachers. Her Violin Bootcamp centers adult women violin students, their goals, and needs.

Mindful Practice with Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh

Nov 15th, 2021 47m 24s

Join us with Guest Speakers Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh as we discuss how to conquer your stage fright and better achieve your musical goals through mindfulness and mindful practice.

Fiddler Casey Driessen on Collaboration, Rhythm, and Drawing Musical Language from Otherlands

Jul 21st, 2021 1h 18m

Fiddlers Casey Driessen and Christian Howes discuss extensive clips from Casey’s album Otherlands. We talk about chopping/rhythm, and other aspects of musical collaboration for fiddlers and string players who want to expand their creative voice

Personal Branding and the Modern Classical Musician w/ Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid)

May 24th, 2021 50m 16s

Join us with Guest Speaker Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid) as we talk about his work as a violist, composer, entrepreneur, and social media wizard.Violist Drew Alexander Forde has a reputation not only as an accomplished performer but als

Music Therapy Techniques for Teachers & Performers w/ Raquel Ravaglioli

Mar 10th, 2021 36m 23s

Music therapy techniques in teaching strings.with Raquel Ravaglioli, a board-certified music therapist, music instructor, and professional violinist. Raquel talks about being balanced while helping others find their personal and musical niche,