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Backstage: Classical Conversations

Backstage: Classical Conversations

By: Katrina Stroud
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Join host Katrina Stroud as she sits down with professional classical musicians to uncover the personal journeys behind public performances. In each episode, you'll hear conversations that reveal the passion, struggles, and turning points that have shaped the lives of classical musicians.

Hear some of the greatest classical artists in the world share their stories of resilience, artistry, and inspiration and give their advice to aspiring professional musicians. Whether you're a seasoned musician, working student, or someone who loves the transformative power of classical music, this podcast invites you to listen deeply -- to the music, and to the stories behind it.


Love the show? Support Backstage Classical Conversations with a donation at paypal.me/backstageccc — every bit helps us share more inspirational stories!

© 2026 Backstage: Classical Career Conversations Art Entertainment & Performing Arts Music Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Erin Keefe: Minnesota Orchestra

    Erin Keefe: Minnesota Orchestra
    Jun 8 2026

    Erin Keefe is the concertmaster of the Minnesota Orchestra and faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music. Listen as she talks about her musical background and education, her Minnesota orchestra audition and experience as concertmaster, the role of chamber music in her career and her teaching techniques.

    To learn more about Erin Keefe visit: https://www.erinkeefeviolin.com/

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Visit our website: backstageclassicalpodcast.com

    Intro and Outro Music:

    Season 1: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok

    Season 2: Florence Price "Elfentanz" performed by Katrina Stroud and Zoey Zhou
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    37 mins
  • Misha Amory: Brentano Quartet

    Misha Amory: Brentano Quartet
    Mar 23 2026

    Listen to the season finale with violist Misha Amory, teacher at the Juilliard School and Curtis Institute, and founding member of the Brentano String Quartet, the quartet-in-residence at the Yale School of Music. In this insightful interview, Amory shares his journey from a young musician to a celebrated quartet member and teacher. Discover his perspectives on chamber music, teaching philosophy, and navigating a successful career in classical music.

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok
    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Danielle Belen Part 2: University of Michigan

    Danielle Belen Part 2: University of Michigan
    Mar 9 2026

    Professor of Violin at the University of Michigan, Danielle Belen, talks about how she prepares her students for auditions, creating a supportive studio environment, entrepreneurship, and gives her advice to aspiring professional musicians.

    To learn more about Danielle Belen visit: https://www.belenviolin.com

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
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