Back

Explore every episode of the podcast Song Cycle

Dive into the complete episode list for Song Cycle. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

Rows per page:

1–49 of 49

TitlePub. DateDuration
Season 5 Trailer24 Jan 202500:03:07

Welcome to Season 5, and meet your new co-host, Laura Strickling! She's one of the coolest, most entrepreneurial singers around, and we can't wait to get into some great conversations with her and her friends. Got something to say? Share it with our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag! Submit a question for Laura and Sam to answer on a future episode. From career advice to repertoire and programming ideas to shedding light on the ins and outs of this ever-changing industry, we hope to have a conversation with you. Come along for the ride!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Joélle Harvey & Alex Fletcher23 Jul 202400:51:21

💥 Power couple alert! 💥 This month's conversation hits on a ton of great topics, featuring the very interesting perspectives of not one, but two titans of the industry - world-class soprano Joélle Harvey and epic artist manager Alex Fletcher. Not only do they bring their unique thoughts to the table as individuals, they give us a glimpse into how their roles in 21st-century American classical music has affected their married life. (Spoiler: it's wonderfully positive.) Tune in and enjoy this power couple's storytelling and advice!
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Sholto Kynoch22 Jun 202300:50:08

Sholto Kynoch, Founding Artistic Director of the newly rebranded Oxford International Song Festival, sits down with Sam to discuss song across the Pond, how the organization engages audiences in bold and relevant ways, and that one time they bribed audience members to come to their concerts... for science, of course.

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Shawn Okpebholo27 Apr 202300:45:01

The wholesome content you've been waiting for is finally here. Meet legendary composer and CSI Advisory Council member Shawn Okpebholo, who not only writes some of the most searing and poignant vocal music of today, but also keeps it 100% real by never losing sight of the ones who helped him get where he is today and paying it forward by nurturing current relationships to the fullest.

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Myra Huang23 Mar 202300:42:26

You know how you have that one friend who seems to be able to do it all? That's Myra Huang. When she's not busy working with the next generation of opera stars at The Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, coaching at Manhattan School of Music,  or running the show at the Aspen Opera Theater as director of musical administration and head coach, you can find her on recital stages throughout the world with the greatest artists of our generation. Get to know this consummate artist right here!

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Queen City Cabaret23 Feb 202300:49:03

It's the one, the only, Queen City Cabaret! Get to know cool cats Sarah Folsom and Matthew Umphreys and how they got their start swooning their way through Cincinnati. Hear some live clips to get in the mood, learn more about the genre of cabaret and the Great American Songbook, and don't miss our co-production with them on March 18, 2023 - Unforgettable: The Golden Age of the Great American Songbook.

Clip 1: Secret Love - Sammy Fain (music), Paul Francis Webster (lyrics)
Clip 2: When I Fall in Love - Victor Young (music), Edward Heyman (lyrics)

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Julius Drake26 Jan 202300:35:36

🚨 This is not a drill! 🚨 Song Cycle's third season is here, and our kickoff episode features none other than the *incredible* English pianist Julius Drake. Dig in with Sam as he learns all about Julius' upbringing, his fascinating career, and that one time Wigmore Hall staff came to him backstage with some shocking news...

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Allen Perriello04 Apr 202200:52:18

Laura talks with arts administrator and collaborative pianist Allen Perriello. While many of us seem to be going through transitions during these COVID times, Allen talks about what gets him up in the morning, what grounds him, and what keeps him focused. Covering topics ranging from mentors who give that first opportunity to do something great, or giving yourself permission to be an artist or make that job transition, to the power of song to connect us in the hardest of times, this one has a little bit for everyone. 

Notes

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Dr. Amelia Nagoski07 Mar 202201:09:30

In this episode, Laura talks with Dr. Amelia Nagoski, DMA, co-author of the New York Times bestselling book, "Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle." They discuss Dr. Nagoski's career, the reality of COVID and its effect on the lives of artists, the patriarchy, and burnout. As many artists are enduring or have endured tough transitions in the last two years and are experiencing burnout, this is an important episode to remind us of how, and why, we make music and what it does to us as people, inside and out. 

Notes

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle

Unruly Wellness

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Nicolette Rader07 Feb 202201:03:02

In this episode, Laura talks with singer, arts administrator, and former nurse Nicolette Rader about life transitions and how music can be both the impetus behind and comfort during life and career transitions. They discuss handling those transitions with grace and trust, how mental health and performance go hand-in-hand, and perspective on the work that you do and how it defines you. You also may get a new life hack on how to up your grilled cheese sandwich game. 

Notes

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Dr. Susan Youens03 Jan 202201:06:09

Laura talks with world-renowned German song scholar Dr. Susan Youens about what led her to her research, the power of art song to make us pay attention, life's journeys, overcoming academic barriers, and of course Schubert and Wolf. This is a lecture in an episode, grab a notebook; you'll want to take notes. 

Notes

Book: Clara Schumann Studies

Dr. Youens' Bio

Song: Schubert Bertha's Lied in der Nacht

Song: Schubert Der Winterabend

Song: Wolf Im frühling from Mörike-Lieder

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital 

The One with Dr. Shannon Cochran06 Dec 202101:04:39

In this episode, Laura chats with soprano Dr. Shannon Cochran about the joys of singing during the pandemic, the importance of setting boundaries and self-care, and what tools we have available to replenish ourselves as artists. Keep this one in your back pocket when you need a little pick-me-up. 

Notes

Shannon Cochran, soprano

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Rhoslyn Jones25 Jun 202401:05:52

If you're interested in hearing a little bit about everything, this one's for you. Rhoslyn Jones brings the most joy to her artistry as a teacher and performer. Grab a listen to hear about her amazing early musical opportunities in Canada, and stay to hear all her hot takes on the industry and celebrity teachers. Oh, and no pigs were harmed during the creation of this episode. 🐷
Visit Rhoslyn Jones' website.
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Reggie Smith01 Nov 202101:03:23

Laura talks with Reggie Smith, singer and life-advice giver extraordinaire. Covering everything from recital programming, song's profound ability to change our thoughts and the thoughts of those around us, and the rewards and challenges of living on the road, like Reggie says, there's "something for everyone". 

Notes

Reginald Smith, Jr.

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Matt Cahill04 Oct 202100:53:55

Laura talks with Matt Cahill about the importance of healing through music and that our artistic journeys should give both those making the art and those consuming the art new life and perspective. This is a good one if you're in need of some artistic TLC. 

Notes

Hogfish

ATSinging

Book: Coddling of the American Mind

Book: Pedagogy of the Oppressed

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Martha Guth and Erika Switzer06 Sep 202100:52:31

Laura talks with Martha Guth and Erika Switzer of Sparks and Wiry Cries about the importance of song as a medium to connect people especially during a time when connection feels less available, leadership in the arts, and the ability to stay flexible in times of uncertainty. In addition to some sound advice about toe safety.

Notes

Sparks and Wiry Cries

Martha Guth

Erika Switzer

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The Debrief28 Jun 202100:35:29

In this episode, Laura and Sam recap the first season of Song Cycle and the fifth season of Cincinnati Song Initiative. While goofy and sometimes incoherent, Laura and Sam manage to discuss the important things: the successes and opportunities presented by the pandemic, the importance of story, and some favorite moments from the pod and the groundbreaking all-digital season. That's a wrap for season one, everybody. Thanks for listening and Song Cycle will be back for a second season, starting in September! 

Notes

Join CSI Digital

Donate to CSI

The One with Will Liverman21 Jun 202100:51:49

In this episode Laura talks with Will Liverman. Will is a baritone, a composer, and an arts advocate. This conversation solidifies the importance of storytelling, accepting that you have your own voice to tell your own stories, and recognizing that to bring about social change both in the music world and whole world at large requires deliberate action and intention. Will is engaging with the rich history of classical vocal music while blazing new trails for the future of our art form by connecting with and performing the music of underrepresented communities and their stories.

Notes

Will Liverman

Creating The Factotum

Dreams of a New Day

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Kathleen Kelly07 Jun 202101:12:55

In this episode, Laura talks with Kathy Kelly, a pianist, coach, conductor, writer, mentor, and arts leader. And, if that wasn't enough, Kathy is a fierce advocate for gender and racial equity in the musical world by fostering and creating music that will perpetuate and transform our musical world one collaboration at a time.

Notes

Kathleen Kelly

Kathleen Kelly - Instagram

Kathleen Kelly - Twitter

GDQ Arts

Melissa Dunphy - Video

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Davóne Tines24 May 202101:07:06

In this episode, Laura talks with bass-baritone Davóne Tines. Davóne is a multi-talented, many-faceted storyteller, communicator, arts leader and singer. In addition to preparing for his time singing in the Cincinnati May Festival, Davóne is innovating the performance realm of vocal music and changing lives along the way. Maybe have a tissue ready while listening to this episode: powerful stories await. 

Davóne Tines

Cincinnati May Festival

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One with Linda McAlister17 May 202101:01:05

In this episode, Laura talks with Linda McAlister, the executive director of Schmidt Vocal Arts, CSI board member, and arts leader and advocate. Covering everything from changing careers to presidential pardons to Amanda Gorman, Linda talks about her career as a performer in the US and in Europe and transitioning into her role in arts administration, and the importance of allowing yourself to be comfortable with change. She is a perfect example of, if you have a calling, it will find you and guide you where you need to be. Even if it's not where you thought you would end up.

Notes:

Schmidt Vocal Arts 

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital 

The One with Karen Slack26 Apr 202101:38:23

In this episode, Laura and Sam talk with Karen Slack about... well, everything. This extraordinary artist shares her story about her life and career and gets real about the struggles within the industry, how to stay creative during a time when it feels almost impossible, and our hopes for the future. Especially during the pandemic, it's important to remember that real connection can happen even when we're not physically together, and this particular episode left me feeling more connected to the artists in my life than I have in a long time. This is one you won't want to miss. 

Notes

Karen Slack - Twitter

Karen Slack - Instagram

Kiki Konversations

Join CSI Digital

Donate to CSI

The One with JJ Penna29 Mar 202101:01:25

In this episode, Laura talks with JJ Penna, a phenomenal pianist, coach, and mentor. Talking with JJ is like getting a lesson in how to listen - both to other people and to music and its texts - which comes full circle when he gives his advice at the end of the episode. While every moment with JJ feels like it has its own profound importance, its especially that way when talking about the future and evolution of art song. 

Notes

Poet's Journey / Song Cycles of Benjamin Britten

New England Conservatory

Join CSI Digital

Donate to CSI

Cincinnati Song Initiative

The One with Roderick Williams25 Apr 202400:58:51

It's truly the most interesting man alive: English baritone Roderick Williams. Yes, the same Roderick Williams who sang at King Charles III's coronation in 2023. The one you've probably heard on most any English song album. Would you guess the magnitude of his career after listening to this chill conversation he has with Sam? Definitely not. So settle in for an hour of wonderful stories and shared wisdom on working hard, staying open to different ideas and opinions, and making sure to stop and smell the roses along the way.
Visit Roderick Williams' website.
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Margo Garrett15 Mar 202101:10:43

In this episode, Laura sits down with Margo Garrett, a shining light and pioneer of the collaborative piano world, and all-around wonderful person. They talk about Margo's career, what it's like to be a woman in the classical music world, and how to keep our art alive, even when it feels almost impossible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notes

4D Piano

Ernest Bloch: Music for Viola and Piano

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital

The One About Art Song01 Mar 202100:26:08

Laura sits down (with herself) to talk about art song: a brief history, how it's different from other musical forms, and why it's important especially today.

Notes

Join CSI Digital

Donate to CSI

The One with Eileen Strempel15 Feb 202100:59:22

Laura has a conversation with Dr. Eileen Strempel. Eileen is the inaugural dean for the Herb Alpert School of Music at UCLA, a prolific singer and performer, a fierce advocate for new music especially by female composers, and a pioneer in educational leadership and equity. 

Notes

Eileen's book: Beyond Free College: Making Higher Education Work for 21st Century Students

The Self-Care Wheel

Donate to CSI 

Join CSI Digital 

The One With David Paul01 Feb 202101:07:26

Laura sits down with opera director and acting teacher David Paul to talk about the tough questions being asked regarding the performing arts world, our responsibility to respond to calls for change and adaptation, and one of Laura's profoundly embarrassing moments during her youth. 

Notes

David Paul, director

Top 10 Role Study

Wolftrap's The Orpheus Project

PoetLOVE

Donate to CSI 

Join CSI Digital 

The One with Sam Martin18 Jan 202100:53:54

Laura and Sam sit down (virtually) to talk about CSI, art song, community, and the importance of flossing. 

Notes

Donate to CSI

Join CSI Digital 

The One with Iain Burnside14 Mar 202400:46:30

The great Scottish pianist Iain Burnside joins Sam for a fun and informative conversation.  Come for the sage advice on how to stay active in this ever-changing classical music landscape, stay for the greatest page-turning fail you never knew you needed to hear.
Visit Iain Burnside's website.
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Gwen Coleman22 Feb 202400:45:44

What better way to kick off 2024 and Season 4 than with inspiration for chasing our own authentic selves? Allowing our mindsets to change over time, adopting new attitudes and approaches, and always - always - learning from those around us. It's the best advice for all of us, only from Gwen Coleman, right here on Song Cycle.
Visit Gwen Coleman's website.
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

Season 3 Holiday Party!28 Dec 202300:52:03

The Season 3 finale crossover extravaganza is here! Sam invites the hosts of CSI's other podcasts, So Lit Song Lit and Follow the Lieder to join him to discuss what their shows are all about. More importantly, though, is your chance to see if you can guess even fewer music trivia questions correctly than this band of hooligans did. Happy holidays to all, and here's to a bright and musically fulfilling new year!

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Sasha Cooke23 Nov 202300:54:31

Who better for a gratitude-filled, inspirational, optimistic, and enlightening Thanksgiving conversation than the luminous Sasha Cooke? From learning to trust the universe when doors of opportunity open, to meaningful commissioning projects that caught fire, to chatting about why Wolf is such a singularly unique song composer, Sasha and Sam cover a wide range of topics that anybody will want to hear. The nuggets of wisdom are plentiful, as are the good times during this conversation.

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Stephanie Blythe24 Aug 202301:09:39

Artist. Administrator. Visionary. Unique. Multi-dimensional. Drag icon. Legend. Just the first few words that come to mind when thinking about renowned singer Stephanie Blythe. Join her and Sam in a no-holds-barred discussion on finding inspiration and meaning from who came before us, the future of classical music, the need for artists to connect with audiences live, and, of course, the drag tenor Blythely Oratonio.

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Laura Strickling27 Jul 202300:55:05

This one's for you if you need a little inspiration on turning your passions into action. Meet Laura Strickling, literal creator of the #TeamArtSong hashtag, song advocate, conduit between singers, pianists, and composers, and all-around song cheerleader. Get to know her, her story, and go bookmark her brand new album, 40@40!

Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Oliver Camacho28 Jan 202501:00:38

We're kicking off Season 5 with a fantastic and varied conversation with the singular Oliver Camacho. This singer, radio host (WFMT Listening to Singers with Oliver Camacho), podcast host (Opera Box Score), opera reviewer, and all-around smart dude  has great insight and spicy opinions. From the latest trends in song to his favorite new recordings to the podcast pro's advice for newbie host Laura, we cover it all. Let's get into it.
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!
Submit a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Louise Toppin24 Mar 202600:54:53

Get ready for this gold mine as we welcome the Dr. Louise Toppin to the pod. She shares her experiences and wisdom with a beautiful sense of purpose, including the importance of mentorship, how we can all engage with Spirituals and art song by Black composers more widely, and that one time she sang five different sets of ornaments for Joan Sutherland and felt very thankful for being extra prepared. As Director of both the George Shirley Vocal Competition and Singing Down the Barriers workshop at the University of Michigan, she knows firsthand how to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Dive in and get ready to learn!

Listen to Louise's latest album, Dear Friends and Gentle Hearts
Order Black Song: A Manifesto for Music and Justice
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Lori Laitman & Caitlin Vincent24 Feb 202600:47:32

Ever wonder what the composer-librettist relationship is like? We do, too, and that's why we asked our good friend, composer Lori Laitman, and the star librettist Caitlin Vincent to join us and discuss their collaboration. It's a really interesting discussion that provides a glimpse into the process of how song and opera texts come to life when both the author and composer are around to work together.

Purchase Caitlin's book Opera Wars here!

***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Jodi Goble25 Mar 202500:46:54

Step right up and get learned by Jodi Goble, composer and vocal coach extraordinaire! She drops golden nuggets along the way for how composers and singers can best learn from each other, what's awesome about American art song today and where it's headed, and even her favorite hobby that may or may not involve a blow torch.
Stick around for a fascinating #TeamArtSong Mailbag question from Daniel in Stamford, CT and an ensuing discussion on what makes a song a great song, as well as a great Songster in Your Neighborhood shoutout for Mike Brofman and Brooklyn Art Song Society, submitted by Harold in NYC!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!
Submit a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Glendower Jones25 Feb 202500:44:28

Have you ever wondered if, in all the years you've known Glendower Jones... all the years you've ordered music from him at Classical Vocal Reprints... all the years you've had wonderful and engaging conversations with him on Facebook... Have you ever heard him speak? Well, fellow Songsters, prepare to meet the voice behind the online personality! Laura and Sam get to know the omniscient artist who's helped most of us out of a bind when it comes to finding that most obscure score. But there's much more to Glendower than CVR. Settle in to hear some amazing stories, and start thinking about what music you need to order from him next.

Stick around for our first-ever #TeamArtSong Mailbag question from Harold in NYC, as well as a fantastic Songster in Your Neighborhood shoutout submitted by Sakinah in Nawlins!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!
Submit a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Robert Bosworth27 Jan 202600:51:41

You know him as Robert Bosworth, Trained Musician™️ on Instagram and TikTok, but now it's time to get to know the real pianist behind the curtain! Hear directly from the lovable social media personality that's taking off like a rocket on what his journey has been like, what advice he has for the up-and-coming generation of classical artists, and why it's so important that we all develop our own musical thoughts without following the legacies before us blindly. Come for the giggles, stay for some serious truths!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

Holiday Party!23 Dec 202500:48:57

We're wrapping up 2025 by bringing Cincinnati Song Initiative's podcast hosts together for our annual Holiday Party! Join us in looking back on a wonderful year with peaks and pits from all of our hosts, then test your knowledge with games like "Guess that Song" and "Two Truths and a Lie: Composer Edition." Which composer walked the streets of Paris with a hammer in his suit pocket? Which composers did - and didn't - study with Nadia Boulanger? (Spoiler: even our hosts get stumped plenty of times!)

Thanks for a great year of song, and here's to a musically rewarding 2026!

Follow Follow the Lieder with Mandee Madrid-Sikich here.
Follow So Lit Song Lit with Ellen Rissinger and Toni Marie Palmertree here.

***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Darryl Taylor28 Oct 202500:41:34

After inviting a direct deposit from a Nigerian prince to help fund their greatest song commissioning desires, Laura and Sam had the pleasure to speak with Darryl Taylor, countertenor, teacher, founder of the African American Art Song Alliance, and an all-around people connector. Through his advocacy, research, teachings, and recording projects, America has taken significant steps towards celebrating and programming songs beyond the contents of the iconic Willis C. Patterson Anthology of Art Songs by Black American Composers.

Settle in to hear Darryl's origin story, his professional trajectory, how he transitioned from being a tenor to countertenor, and how far he's come since his founding of the Alliance in 1997. And stream his and Louise Toppin's new two-disc album, Dear Friends & Gentle Hearts: African American Art Song Essentials, on Apple and Spotify!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Jamie Barton23 Sep 202501:03:10

Please hold for tech... Is this thing on? Oh, there you are, Jamie Barton! One of the most iconic artists of our generation stops by the pod to chat all things song, share her incredible musical origin story from rural Georgia, and impart invaluable advice for finding one's true, authentic voice that puts you front and center in this crazy industry. (Hint: it involves healthy boundaries.)

Happy opening to the cast of the 25th anniversary run of Jake Heggie's opera Dead Man Walking at San Francisco Opera! Oh, and we're now accepting applications for an on-site manager for Jamie's Cat Café.

Stream one of Jamie's favorite songs, "You Have Become a Forest" from Four Poems of Nikita Gill by Melissa Dunphy on Apple Music or Spotify.
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with B.E. Boykin26 Aug 202500:39:43

Our guest celebrity this month, the astounding B.E. Boykin, may seem like an old friend. That's because she's the co-conspirator with last month's guest, Sidney Outlaw, having composed the amazing new cycle 26 Ways of Looking at a Black Man, found on Sidney and Warren Jones' new album, Black Pierrot. We were inspired by her unique story and can-do attitude in her pursuit of composing, despite numerous rejections along the way. But with cheerleaders like Dorothy Rudd Moore telling her to keep going for the love of it, how could she possibly have given up? Thank the #TeamArtSong gods she never did - we're all for the better having her songs in our world.

Stick around for a great conversation between Laura and Sam on how to advocate for the continued celebration of new music, including bringing audiences along. Thanks for the question, Edson!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Sidney Outlaw22 Jul 202501:00:01

Coming to us from balmy Brevard, North Carolina, the fame-ish Sidney Outlaw joins the pod, where the stories just keep flowing one after another! From the value of mentorship in shaping one's educational and professional journey, to the importance of creating quality recordings to provide the next generation with stylistic models, to believing that we're right where we're meant to be - all woven together by Star Wars metaphors - the conversation has nuggets for everyone. Hop on The Magic School Bus, it's class time with Sidney Outlaw!

Stream Sidney's newest album with Warren Jones, Black Pierrot, featuring music by William Grant Still and B.E. Boykin.

***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag! This episode, we answer a very interesting question submitted by Kelly in Cincinnati.
Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Michael Kelly24 Jun 202500:50:30

The multi-faceted singer/writer/producer Michael Kelly joins the pod, sharing reflections on a career that started in song and have only rippled out from there. Stick around for a conversation about what classical musicians can stand to learn from pop artists, and new song cycles about poets who couldn't keep their hands off each other. Intrigued yet? Dive in with a whole new episode of Song Cycle, your go-to for chats with today's most pioneering performers and entrepreneurs!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!
Submit a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment! Shoutout to composer Lisa Neher as this month's Songster in Your Neighborhood!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Robert Peavler & Dennis Tobenski27 May 202500:52:03

We've done a lot of pulling back the curtain on the life of composers, but we haven't had the chance to hang with another cornerstone of our industry - the publishers - until NOW! Laura and Sam are joined by super-cool-men-on-a-mission Robert Peavler of North Star Music and Dennis Tobenski of NewMusicShelf (where you can pick up Laura's 40@40 Anthology). These gents share their "why" for starting their publishing companies (hint: their reasons are far more noble than making money). Listen along for a rare glimpse into the world of publishing - and composers, stick around to hear how you can get your music picked up!
Then, Laura and Sam answer a fantastic #TeamArtSong Mailbag question from Holly in Winchester, VA about how to collaborate with composers when premiering their songs. And Laura shares a Songster in Your Neighborhood spotlight on Denise Rivera. Pick up her amazing anthology for beginning singers, Art Songs for New Beginnings, today!
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!
Submit a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

The One with Michael Brofman26 May 202600:50:36

Laura and Sam have a moment for Brussels sprouts, the key ingredient in a perfect old fashioned, and debriefing on the 2026 Fellowship of the Song festival before welcoming fellow art song organization founder Michael Brofman. Artistic Director of the Brooklyn Art Song Society, Mike has been a trailblazer in curating and producing concerts to bring audiences together and experiencing the best song performers in the country, par excellence. Hear about the upcoming final concert in BASS's 2026 New Voices Festival, their inaugural young artist program, and more about BASS's history.
***
Have a question you want answered by Laura and Sam on a future episode? Share your thoughts with a voice memo or written note through our new #TeamArtSong Mailbag!

Nominate a phenomenal artist in your local community for a shoutout in our Songsters in Your Neighborhood segment!
***
Song Cycle is a production of Cincinnati Song Initiative. You can learn more about its network of podcasts at cincinnatisonginitiative.org/podcasts.

© My Podcast Data