Regarding Music

Ep. 68 - Can AI Choir Sound Musical?

I've made several AI Demos of my choral compositions and have found that while AI choir is very good at being correct, it usually lacks musicality. I wrote a new choral composition specifically designed to be sung by AI to see just how musical I could get an AI generate choral recording to sound.

Ep. 67 - Building a Career in Music Composition with Nick Batina

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard speaks with composer and violinist Nick Batina about his journey in composition, his stylistic influences, and the challenges of building a career in music. Nick shares valuable insights on the creative process and building a career in music composition.

Ep. 66 - Composing Church Music with Paul Griffin

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard speaks with Paul Griffin, a Washington D.C. based organist and composer. The discussion focuses on the value of writing approachable music, some of the parallels between composing church music and music for video games, and some insights about composition gained from becoming content creator.

Ep. 65 - Developing a Career as a Freelance Mixing Engineer with Brandon Unis

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard and Brandon Unis discuss Brandon's journey into the world of mixing, the business side of being a self-employed engineer, and the importance of building relationships in the music industry. They discuss ways content creation can drive business outcomes, some of the challenges of identifying as a musician, and some advice for aspiring mixing engineers.

Ep. 64 - Building a Music Teaching Business with Ben Nguyen

In this episode of Regarding Music Eric Sheppard and Ben Nguyen explore the world of private music education, teaching, and the evolving landscape of music careers. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with music education, the value of leadership in music education, and lots of great tips to help music teachers starting private studios to find the right students. 

Ep. 63 - Three Ways to Compose Easier Choral Music

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard outlines three key considerations for composing choral music that is easier and more approachable for amateur choirs.

Ep. 62 - What Does it Mean to be a 21st Century Composer with Mathias Rehfeldt

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard speaks with Mathias Rehfeldt, a German composer and organist. They  Mathias's work as a composer, ways composers of "Classical" music can leverage technology and social media, and some of the ways AI can (and will) change a composer's workflow.

Ep. 61 - Understanding the Importance of Mentorship in Composition with Shane Mickelsen

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard speaks with American composer and music director Shane Mickelsen. They discuss Shane's early musical journey, his education choices, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of finding one's own voice in music composition. Shane shares insights on navigating music education, the role of validation in a composer's journey, and the balance between personal expression and audience engagement. 

Ep. 60 - Ternary Forms, Composing for Strings, and a Look at the Prelude from Suite for Strings (Op. 7 No.1) by Eric Sheppard

In this Episode Eric walks us through a recent composition for String Orchestra that focuses heavily on ternary forms. This discussion provides a look at the piece and a deep dive look at some of the formal structures featured and stylistic choices made in the creation of this piece.  

Ep. 59 - Discussing Composition and Sharing Your Music on Social Media with Daix AI

In this Episode of Regarding Music, Eric Sheppard speaks with Daix Ai, a composer and pianist, about her journey in music composition, influences from classical and traditional Chinese music, and striking the balance between modern and traditional styles in modern composition. They discuss the importance of storytelling in music, the challenges of getting performances as a young composer, and the role education plays in a musician's career. Daix shares valuable advice for aspiring composers, emphasizing the need for open-mindedness and the significance of building relationships in the music community.