Regarding Music

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.  

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.

In this episode of Regarding Music, Eric speaks with Michael Clement, an American jazz pianist and composer, about being a generalist in the early stages of a music career, challenges in the music education space, and the need to adapt in the evolving landscape of the music industry. Michael shares his personal experiences transitioning from classical to jazz, the importance of developing multiple income streams, and the need for musicians to think more entrepreneurially about their careers.

In this episode, Eric Sheppard and Ben Nguyen, explore the world of music coaching and education. Ben shares his journey from a music student to a coach, emphasizing the importance of social connections in music. They discuss the challenges of building a music teaching roster, striking the right balance between building a business and realizing artistic fulfillment, and effective marketing strategies for music educators. The conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship, the qualities that make a great music teacher, and the power of word-of-mouth referrals in the music education space.

In this episode, Eric Sheppard speaks with jazz double bassist Will Lyle about his journey in music, the impact of social media can have on one’s musical career, and the importance of artistic finding fulfillment. Will shares insights on the necessity of honing one's craft, the evolving landscape of jazz education, and striking the right balance between creativity and business in creating music content.

In this episode, Eric Sheppard and Barry J. Neely, a California-based film composer, discuss film music composition, misconceptions about scoring, and the importance of collaboration and communication in the creative process. Barry shares his journey with film scoring, his experiences with directors, and the constant need to balance artistic vision and client needs. The conversation also touches on the impact of budget constraints and the rewarding moments of working in film music. Eric and Barry reflect on personal experiences, career choices, and the value of patience and consistency in achieving artistic goals.