Not So Classical: Genre Pockets, Cello and The Unconscious with Greg Byers

Watch

Open on YouTube · Love Music Why clip · exhibit

Listen

• Listen on Spotify
• Apple Podcasts
• YouTube (full episode)

Topics discussed

• Classical and orchestral music
• Genre
• Non-traditional musical careers
• Influence of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on music
• Development of personal style
• The economics of performing arts
• Early music education

Host note

Selected moments

• Introducing Greg and his cats 1:56 Greg shares a charming anecdote about his cats, who he adopted during the pandemic, setting a light-hearted tone for the conversation.
• The beginnings of musical passion 4:28 Greg discusses how he began playing music at a young age, influenced by a Suzuki demonstration.
• Finding balance in musical genres 9:41 Greg reflects on the dichotomy between classical training and contemporary music, expressing his desire to merge both.
• Understanding the supply-demand dynamic in orchestras 12:21 An insightful breakdown of the realities of orchestral positions and the economic challenges they face.
• Making a living in music outside orchestras 18:04 Greg emphasizes the importance of having a clear goal to sustain a career in music.
• The significance of saying 'yes' to opportunities 21:53 He shares how saying 'yes' helped him take unexpected paths that enriched his musical journey.
• Improvisation in music and Jiu Jitsu 56:52 An intriguing comparison between improvisation in music and the spontaneous nature of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
• The impact of Joni Mitchell on artistic growth 47:44 Discussing how Joni Mitchell's career evolution inspires artists to explore new genres and forms.

Selected excerpts

My mom wanted me to play violin. And the instructor said if he ever wants a career in music, you should consider having him play cello because there are far less cellists.

There are a finite amount of professional orchestras in the United States. I know there are a lot of community orchestras as well, and those are fantastic on so many levels.

A major driver for me is gratitude and being grateful for all that music has given me and continues to give me to this day.

There's nothing better than playing a show and just having the crowd be totally immersed in what you're doing.

You know, the body thrives under pressure. The body does not thrive—yeah, if you're injured, stay at home, take care of yourself. But the body actually does better under adversity.

FAQ