Episode 1 - Merrie Klazek: The Life of a Trumpeter in North America
In this episode, Marianna Cortesi is joined by Merrie Klazek, a professional trumpeter and Associate Professor at the University of Victoria. Merrie shares the story of how she found her way into music and fell in love with brass instruments. She reflects on the twists and turns of building a career in performance and teaching, and opens up about the challenges and changes facing musicians and music educators in North America today.
Episode 2 - Nick Able: Resilience and Renewal from the UK to India
In this episode, Marianna Cortesi is joined by Nick Able, a multi-instrumentalist, composer, educator, and performing musician from Newcastle upon Tyne. Nick talks about his musical journey, from starting out on the guitar to discovering the sitar and falling in love with Indian music. He reflects on his time as a student and disciple of the late Pandit Ravi Shankar, touring internationally and performing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues. Nick also speaks candidly about a darker period in his life and career, and how resilience, reflection, and a deep passion for music shaped his path forward as an artist.
Episode 3: Anna Détári - Crafting a New Musical Identity and Rebuilding a Life in Music
In this episode, Federico is joined by Anna Détári, a flutist, researcher, and Lecturer in Performance Science at the Royal College of Music. Anna reflects on her classical training and musical journey in Hungary, speaking candidly about the hidden costs of elite performance and the cultural taboos surrounding mental and physical health in music education. She shares the story of a sudden, career-altering challenge that led to a "fork in the road" for her musical journey. Through her story of redirection and resilience, Anna discusses how this pivotal moment fuelled her mission to bridge the gap between scientific research and musical practice, exploring the systemic barriers to well-being in music education environments and offering practical advice to support future generations of musicians.
Episode 4: Kenneth Thompson - Redefining Musical Identity, Music Performance Anxiety, and the Art of Teaching and Performance
In this fourth episode, Marianna welcomes Kenneth Thompson, a pianist, educator, and founder of a thriving community music school: MACSA, Musical Arts Center of San Antonio (USA). Kenneth shares his personal journey - from getting the grips with music performance anxiety as a conservatory student to channeling creative energy into building a supportive, teacher-focused music school. They reflect on the transformative power of teaching, the importance of emotional connection in early music education, and how improvisation and ergonomic technique can reshape both performance and self-esteem.
With candor and insight, Kenneth discusses some of the systemic gaps in music education, the evolving landscape of hybrid musical careers, and the need for performers to embrace their role as co-creators of music. Their story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring belief that music is not just about mastery, but about connection - both to the art and to oneself.
Resources Mentioned:
Book: What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body by Thomas Mark
Podcast & Work: Dr. Shawn Copeland’s mBODYed – Exploring physical and emotional health for musicians
Connect with Kenneth Thompson: Instagram | Email: KThompson@MACSAinc.com