The Gould Standard – Details, episodes & analysis

For your *continued* pleasure: a second, special bonus episode. The response of our audience has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic about the world premiere of the private, recorded conversation between Tim Page and Glenn Gould. They wanted to learn more about this unique audio document, and we’re happy to oblige. In this special program, Tim Page reflects on his spontaneous phone conversation with Glenn, and contrasts it with a later scripted interview for the 1982 Goldberg Variations recording, and recounts personal anecdotes, including a private piano performance by Gould. The episode also highlights Gould's appreciation for in-depth conversations free from clichéd questions and his humour, expressed through his fictitious alter egos, Theodore Slutz, Nigel Twitt-Thornwaite and Karlheinz Klopweisser. The discussion encompasses Gould's enormous influence on restoring the reputations composers like Strauss and Sibelius.

For your pleasure: a special bonus episode. The response of our audience has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic about the world premiere of the private, recorded conversation between Tim Page and Glenn Gould. They wanted to learn more about this unique audio document, and we’re happy to oblige. In this special program, Tim Page reflects on his spontaneous phone conversation with Glenn, and contrasts it with a later scripted interview for the 1982 Goldberg Variations recording, and recounts personal anecdotes, including a private piano performance by Gould. The episode also highlights Gould's appreciation for in-depth conversations free from clichéd questions and his humour, expressed through his fictitious alter egos, Theodore Slutz, Nigel Twitt-Thornwaite and Karlheinz Klopweisser. The discussion encompasses Gould's enormous influence on restoring the reputations composers like Strauss and Sibelius.

Tim Page:

• Wikipedia
• Pulitzer Prize

The Glenn Gould Foundation:

• GlennGould.ca
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Facebook
• Twitter/X
• LinkedIn

In the second segment of this exclusive podcast interview, we continue to explore the remarkable life and achievements of the extraordinary Cécile McLorin Salvant. Beloved for her enthralling narrative flair, impeccable vocal mastery, and passion for traversing an extensive spectrum of musical genres, Cécile McLorin Salvant is one of the few true reigning divas of jazz. But her creativity, curiosity, and wayfaring imagination take her well beyond the boundaries of any one style or genre of expression. Cécile reflects on her creative process, the inspiration of Abbey Lincoln, French culture, medieval poetry, folk traditions, and her exploration of early American jazz, musical theater, and storytelling within her mesmerizing performances. Cécile discerns parallels between her classical training and jazz vocals, on full display in her recent albums Mélusine and Ghost Song, underscoring her commitment to infuse her singing with depth of feeling, sentiment, and vivid character portrayal.

Beloved for her enthralling narrative flair, impeccable vocal mastery, and passion for traversing an extensive spectrum of musical genres, Cécile McLorin Salvant is one of the few true reigning divas of jazz. But her creativity, curiosity, and wayfaring imagination take her well beyond the boundaries of any one style or genre of expression.

In this revealing conversation, Cécile unveils her musical roots stemming from her Haitian father, French mother, and choir experiences in Miami, later deepening her musical studies in France, where she was originally immersed in classical and baroque music. Following her first prize win at the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition in 2010, Cécile embarked on a voyage into the jazz milieu.

Cécile reflects on her creative process, the inspiration of Abbey Lincoln, French culture, medieval poetry, folk traditions, and her exploration of early American jazz, musical theater, and storytelling within her mesmerizing performances. Cécile discerns parallels between her classical training and jazz vocals, on full display in her recent albums Mélusine and Ghost Song, underscoring her commitment to infuse her singing with profundity, sentiment, and vivid character portrayal.

Cécile McLorin Salvant:

• Official Website: https://www.cecilemclorinsalvant.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cecilemclorinsalvant
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cecilemclorinsalvant
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/

Glenn Gould Foundation:

• Official GGF Website: https://www.glenngould.ca/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenngouldfdn
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/GlennGouldFoundation
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlennGouldFoundation
• X: https://twitter.com/glenngouldfdn

In the second instalment of The Gould Standard’s sweeping conversation with the best-selling author Neil Gaiman, we venture deeper into his extraordinary literary odyssey, navigating the fine line between artistry and entertainment. Neil shares insights into the unexpected and profound connections his creations, especially the “Sandman” and “American Gods,” have forged between him and his readers. He unveils the magic of his creative process, an alchemical blend of multi-dimensional elements that fuels his storytelling. Neil takes a stand against the rising tide of book censorship, highlighting the indispensable role of libraries as gateways to a tapestry of ideas and inner worlds. He champions literature’s ability to ignite minds and spur critical thinking, all while paying a vibrant tribute to the influential authors like Lord Dunsany, H.P. Lovecraft and Harlan Ellison, whose enduring impact continues to shape the world of literature and imagination.

Beloved author Neil Gaiman has earned an avid following the world over. Celebrated for his iconic works such as "American Gods," "Good Omens," and the beloved "Sandman" series, Gaiman joined us at the Gould Standard for a candid conversation, opening the door to his imaginative world, ranging from novels and short stories, comics and graphic novels, children’s books and non-fiction, and numerous adaptations for film and television. From sharing personal family anecdotes and early childhood influences to exploring his deep connections with mythology and folklore, Gaiman sheds light on the magic that makes his tales and storytelling so mesmerizing. “It’s not sad bits that make you cry. It’s the bits where you just sort of feel things that are too big to quite fit in your chest, so they come out through your eyes."

From his humble beginnings in Chennai, India, to becoming an international sensation, legendary musician AR Rahman shares his life story and his remarkable musical journey. In Part 2 of this exclusive podcast interview, we delve deeper into the extraordinary life and accomplishments of this multifaceted artist. Rahman reflects on his groundbreaking work composing the Oscar-winning score for the film Slumdog Millionaire, and offers his philosophical insights on music education and music-making, and the inspiring story of his visionary KM Music Conservatory in Chennai. Looking towards the future, Rahman shares his thoughts on the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, the influence of technology on creativity, and provides glimpses into his latest musical endeavours.

Link to Video Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKwRF9wvTHY&t=1591s

 

A.R. Rahman:

- A.R. Rahman's official website: https://www.arrahman.com/
- KM Music Conservatory: https://www.kmmc.in/
- The Sunshine Orchestra: https://arrahmanfoundation.org/
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HNGc8t9DlK5Bv7Wv2VpMZ
- Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/a-r-rahman/181719291
- AllMusic: https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ar-rahman-mn0000034174
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A._R._Rahman

The Glenn Gould Foundation:

- Official GGF Website: https://www.glenngould.ca/thegouldstandard
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/glenngouldfndn
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/glenngouldfndn
- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyeNcs2Ao31H8KOCvUyRn4Q
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGlennGouldFoundation
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-glenn-gould-foundation

 

A.R. Rahman’s early life, marked by personal loss and perseverance, served as a catalyst for his musical genius and set the stage for his unparalleled success as one of the most beloved musicians of our time. At the age of nine, Rahman began supporting his family by playing the keyboard in orchestras and working as a session musician. Catching the attention of renowned Indian film directors, Rahman began scoring for cinema, and his soundtracks became massive hits. Since then, Rahman has scored over 150 films, has won multiple Oscars, Grammys, numerous other awards and has collaborated with talent across the globe including Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger, and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. Involved with numerous charitable causes, in 2009 Rahman founded the Sunshine Orchestra, India’s first youth symphony for economically and socially disadvantaged children that receive free music education from his KM Music Conservatory.

A.R. Rahman Links:

• A.R. Rahman’s official website
• Spotify
• Apple Music
• AllMusic
• Wikipedia

The Glenn Gould Foundation:

• Official GGF Website
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube Channel
• Facebook
• LinkedIn

The Gould Standard welcomes back acclaimed pianist James Rhodes to once again share his profound insights on music and life. With refreshing honesty, Rhodes delves into the transformative power of music and its indelible impact on his own life journey, from trauma to triumph. James fearlessly discusses his mission to break down barriers and make classical music accessible to all, challenging conventions and igniting a newfound passion among a diverse generation of music enthusiasts. Elena Deslongchamps, app developer, joins the interview to introduce the new creativity enhancing app The Daily Muse, whose aim is to counter toxic on-line culture, and she discusses James’s influence on its creation.

James Rhodes:

• Website
• Biography
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Spanish Newspaper Articles
• Spotify
• Apple Music

The Glenn Gould Foundation:

• Official
• GGF Website
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube Channel
• Facebook
• LinkedIn

 

Vraidden von Strykenbach is a self-taught composer and pianist, and a good friend of The Glenn Gould Foundation. His grandfather was a member of the Tahltan First Nation in British Columbia, and Vraidden experienced an abusive childhood and spent his teen years living with poverty, homelessness, trauma and despair. Meet this extraordinary man and artist, as he recounts how he discovered the power of music, taught himself to play and compose, and in so doing, transformed his life. Vraidden’s message of hope carries the powerful lesson that none of us is without value and each possesses the potential to bring beauty into the world, no matter how afflicted their situation.

Vraidden von Strykenbach:

• YouTube Channel
• Twitter

The Glenn Gould Foundation:

• Official GGF Website
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube Channel
• Facebook
• LinkedIn