The Modern Artist Project Podcast

J.S. Gilbert is a seasoned advertising creative and business consultant, recognized for his prolific work in producing commercials and writing on marketing and sales. Alongside his entrepreneurial ventures, he delves into various artistic pursuits, from stand-up comedy to jewelry design and skin care product development, while also lending his voice to commercials and video games.

Key Highlights:

1. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of authenticity and service, rather than focusing solely on selling products or courses, advocating for genuine connection and interaction.

2. The power of reciprocity, citing it as a fundamental aspect of building meaningful relationships and communities.

3. Seek advocates and cultivate genuine connections in both personal and professional spheres.

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Eric Salazar, a dynamic performer and composer, merges classical music with improvisation, crafting cinematic compositions that foster connection and vulnerability. Transitioning from arts administration to pursuing his dream full-time, Eric empowers others to lead authentically in the business world while staying true to themselves.

Key Highlights:

1. Eric Salazar's career journey and transition to becoming "the clarinet guy."

2. Importance of branding and self-promotion for artists.

3. Critique of traditional music education and the need for curriculum changes.

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Embark on a transformative musical journey with Benjamin Barnes, an esteemed music educator holding degrees from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. With over 30 years of teaching experience, Benjamin offers personalized instruction in violin, viola, guitar, and voice, fostering technical proficiency and a deep appreciation for music, while leading visionary projects to unite communities through captivating musical experiences.

Key Highlights:

1. Emphasizes the creative process for solace and hope through music.

2. Early exposure to street performance shapes his artistic journey.

3. Utilizes digital media for audience expansion, promotions, and securing grants.

4. Advocates early sharing of work, building a following for future opportunities.

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Austin McFarland is a multi-instrumentalist, educator, and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience. He serves as the Midwest/Southern Sales Manager for B. Corbin Clarinet Products, founded Arts Marketing & Management Strategies, and is the communications coordinator for the North American Saxophone Alliance. Additionally, he is the new executive director of the New Works Project, aiming to empower artists and build connections with the community.

Key Highlights:

1. Diverse Career Path and Entrepreneurial Background

2. Challenges in Traditional Music Education Systems

3. The importance of staying updated with technological advancements and leveraging them to streamline tasks and enhance productivity.

4. Austin emphasizes the importance of establishing non-negotiable personal time and clear goals.

Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply a lover of creativity, this episode promises to ignite inspiration and set the tone for an incredible season ahead.

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Welcome to Season 8 of The Modern Artist Project - Podcast! 🚀

In this special premiere, founder Kristine Dizon steps into the guest spotlight, with Ethan King as the guest interviewer, unraveling Kristine's transformative journey from musician to entrepreneurial art leader.

Key Highlights:

1. Explore Kristine's shift from the traditional 9-5 business path to a creative career

2. Uncover the origins of TMAP and its evolution

3. Discuss the significance of TMAP in guiding and supporting artists through their creative processes

4. Explore what sets TMAP apart and its genuine commitment to the artistic community

Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply a lover of creativity, this episode promises to ignite inspiration and set the tone for an incredible season ahead.

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With a multicultural background and fluency in seven languages, Brendan Jan Walsh passionately explores various forms of writing, connecting arts with academia. His journey from learning the language of music and business to dedicating the latter half to arts and societal connections, reflects a commitment to making a meaningful difference.

Takeaways

1. Emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and the power of art to bring people together
2. He encourages the Arts world to embrace technology and experiment with new approaches
3. Reflect on the flaws in the education system
4. The importance of considering the business side of art, seeking support and opportunities, and nurturing individual talents are also emphasized.

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Dr. Nancy Williams, a prominent musician and educator, has made significant contributions to the music industry through her extensive teaching career and active involvement as a performer. Her commitment to promoting new music and her groundbreaking research on woodwind improvisatory techniques have garnered her recognition in the field. With a comprehensive academic background and numerous published works, she continues to inspire and empower musicians worldwide.

Takeaways

1. Dr. Williams has written a book on classical period ornamentation practices and talks about the positive impact it has had on her students.
2. The value of finding joy and worth in oneself.
3. She emphasized the importance of embracing one's humanity and individual musical expression.
4. Appreciates the opportunities brought by the digital age.

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Eduardo Lála, a distinguished musician and conductor in Lisbon, has left an indelible mark on Portugal's music scene. With a career spanning diverse musical genres and collaborations with numerous orchestras and ensembles, he has demonstrated his versatile musical prowess. Additionally, his commitment to social projects promoting diversity and interculturality underscores his belief in music's transformative power.

Takeaways

1. Explore opportunities to collaborate with musicians worldwide through social media and digital platforms.
2. Seek out opportunities to perform and engage with the community, emphasizing the importance of live experiences and collaboration.
3. Being present and engaged in the arts, creating a safe space for students, and the need for practical insights and mentorship in pursuing a sustainable career in the arts.

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Dr. Heidi Kay Begay, a renowned flutist and educator, is celebrated for her impactful Flute 360 podcast. With a global reach spanning 70 countries, the podcast aims to empower flutists, offering valuable insights and resources for personal and professional growth. Heidi is dedicated to helping musicians find fulfillment and success in their musical careers. Takeaways

1. Ensure that students are being served and not facing disappointment by adapting and being flexible in the music industry.
2. Emphasizes the importance of being adaptable in today's music industry and adding new skills to succeed.
3. Discusses four circles to consider when deciding on a career path: what motivates you, your skills, what you can get paid for, and what is missing in the industry.
4. Emphasizes the significance of knowing one's value, building relationships, and being thankful for success.

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Dr. Vince Dominguez is a Mexican clarinetist and educator known for seamlessly transitioning between classical performances and drag shows as Dr. Claire Annette. With a mission to make classical music accessible, Vince advocates for BIPOC representation and performs with Cactus Chamber Musicians. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Arizona State University and is an advocate for equity and service in his work. Takeaways

1. Emphasize accessibility in delivering classical music outside of traditional concert halls to captivate new audiences.
2. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and continue to build confidence on and off the stage.
3. Explore opportunities to bring classical music and drag together in new and innovative ways.
4. Increase visibility nationally and make an impact on the arts community.
5. Stay multidimensional and explore different avenues to stand out and make an impact in the music industry.

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Cameron Hewes is a clarinetist, artist, and entrepreneur based in Massachusetts. He has played concerti with the Lynn Philharmonia and the Crane Symphony Orchestra as a soloist. Cameron has also performed in venues including New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall, Boston's Symphony Hall,  and the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall. In 2020, he established CAMco, a sheet music store dedicated to organizing, preserving, and curating the clarinet family’s repertoire. When the business numbers on the screen start to blur together, Cameron finds solace in traditional printmaking.

Takeaways

1. Embrace a curious mindset and be open to exploring new skills and opportunities.
2. Increase visibility nationally through strategic marketing initiatives.
3. Conduct market research to determine the demand for high-quality sheet music with clear legibility and superior quality compared to existing options.
4. Cameron emphasizes the need to avoid subjective language and provide factual information

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Dr. Francisco Javier Dudley de Alba, Paco, is a versatile musician and teacher based in Phoenix, known for his clarinet expertise. An accomplished performer, composer, and advocate for new music, Paco holds degrees from Columbus State University and Arizona State University. His research delves into clarinet pedagogy through linguistics.

Takeaways

1. Confidence in one's identity as an artist can lead to a fulfilling and successful career.
2. Encouragement from peers and mentors can significantly impact one's artistic journey.
3. Friends who believed in his compositional talent helped him embrace his identity as a composer.
4. Surrounding himself with a supportive community of fellow musicians and friends played a crucial role in boosting his confidence.
5. Accepting oneself as an artist, whether as a performer or a composer, is crucial for personal and professional growth.

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John Sonofmel, an American artist, fuses outlaw country and folk, inspired by global travels and diverse experiences. His music blends storytelling and poetry, bringing the foreign to the familiar with undying optimism. Through song, he captures life's essence with reverent enthusiasm.

Takeaways

1. Mistakes do not define a person and how individuals change over time.
2. Maintaining a social media presence for promotion and marketing is challenging, but providing meaningful content and engaging with followers is important.
3. The internet is described as a "monster" that needs to be controlled.
4. Budgeting and realistic planning are necessary in pursuing a career in the arts.
5. Staying balanced and finding inspiration from nature is important.

What’s Next?!

Thank you for supporting this show by listening and sharing with your friends. If you liked this podcast, please rate and write a review of how this show has helped you. This will help us be able to increase our visibility nationally and in being able to make an impact on the profession.

Joyann Parker, a captivating and versatile musician, embodies the essence of soulful music. Raised in a small town, her profound passion for blues, gospel, jazz, and rock genres started early. With a voice radiating power and vulnerability, her performances leave audiences spellbound. As a dedicated musician, she's graced renowned stages nationwide, building a devoted fanbase. Her introspective songwriting, combined with soulful melodies, sets her apart in the industry. Takeaways

1. Joyann Parker emphasizes the importance of being passionate about your art and staying authentic.
2. In today's digital age, building an audience can be challenging. She advice is to remain genuine and share real-life experiences, as people are looking for authenticity in an era filled with online personas.
3. True growth as an artist often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and continually learning.
4. Joyann Parker encourages emerging artists to take action and put their work out there, even when fear and self-doubt are present. Learning from both successes and failures is part of the creative journey.
5. Focusing on the positive impact you have on those who connect with your art, rather than dwelling on criticism.

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Theodora Ivanova Nestorova, a distinguished soprano, researcher, and educator, has garnered acclaim for her pioneering work on vocal vibrato. Her accolades include the Best Poster Award at NATS 2022 and recognition from PAVA for her vocology research. She excels in academia, performance, and cross-disciplinary advocacy.

Takeaways

1. Her passion for cross-cultural and international connections in music and the arts is evident in her multinational background and her involvement in global programs like Fulbright.
2. Theodora emphasizes the importance of curiosity and constant learning in her career journey, allowing discoveries to shape her path.
3. She advocates for the integration of entrepreneurship education in the arts to empower artists to create their own paths and not be solely dependent on traditional career routes.
4. The digital age and social media offer opportunities for artists to engage with audiences authentically through storytelling and sharing their unique perspectives, although oversaturation and the need for innovation remain challenges.

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Sherlonda Sharp is a beloved comedy performer known for her wit, likability, and crowd connection. She has opened for national comedians, placed in her first comedy contest, and performs at clubs and colleges. Her comedy journey began as a New Year's Resolution in Raleigh, NC, leading her to Minneapolis, MN, where she flourished. Sherlonda is a hit at corporate events and has entertained employees from major companies and service members from various military bases. Her inviting style suits all audiences, making her a versatile choice for events and gatherings. Takeaways

1. She emphasizes the importance of finding places to perform and building a network in the comedy world, no matter where you live.
2. Shalanda highlights the significance of writing and structuring jokes effectively, referencing "The Comedy Bible" as a valuable resource for comedians.
3. Shalanda discusses the similarities between comedy and education, using humor to engage students and make educational messages more memorable.
4. She highlights the power of comedy in addressing challenging topics like race and helping people relate to shared experiences.
5. Shalanda emphasizes the importance of the message she wants to convey to her audience and the impact comedy can have in raising awareness and sparking meaningful conversations.

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Robyn Saunders is a Manchester-based clarinetist and pianist specializing in contemporary classical music and musical theatre. With a distinction master's degree from the Royal Northern College of Music, she's a tutor for the RNCM Young Artists scheme and a Help Musicians UK-supported artist. Robyn's innovative work explores the nexus of music, dance, and drag artistry, as seen in her acclaimed show "High Heels Bass Squeals."

Takeaways

1. Embracing a variety of artistic interests and exploring different musical genres can lead to unique and fulfilling creative experiences.
2. Encouraging young musicians to pursue their passions and reminding them that there are ways to make a living doing what they love can be invaluable.
3. Equipping artists with entrepreneurial skills, such as applying for funding, can enable them to bring their creative ideas to life and build sustainable careers.
4. Recognizing that the industry is evolving and moving towards positive change, even if there are setbacks along the way, can provide hope and motivation for aspiring artists.

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Tam Lan Truong, a McGill University graduate, is a multilingual photographer specializing in classical musicians. With mentorship from his father and music teachers, he embarked on a photography journey, capturing renowned artists and events like Opera de Montreal. His versatile skills blend beauty and spontaneity, immortalizing cherished moments through visual storytelling. Takeaways

1. Photography goes beyond technical skills; it requires genuine passion and interest in the subjects you capture.
2. Focus on the aspects of everyday life that truly captivate you, as they will shape your photography style.
3. While preparation is important, it is equally crucial to embrace spontaneity and let go of control during a shoot.
4. Building connections with clients involves understanding their vision, engaging in meaningful conversations, and creating a comfortable environment to capture their essence.
5. Trial and error is a valuable learning process in photography, allowing for growth and continual improvement.
6. Self-learning, research, and exposure to inspiring work contribute to the development of photography skills.
7. We are our own best teachers and learn at our own pace when we are ready.
8. Genuine connections with clients and the community lead to recommendations and long-term relationships.
9. Organic marketing, based on trust and a sense of community, plays a vital role in photography.
10. Creating a positive and enjoyable experience during a photoshoot is crucial for capturing genuine moments, as people remember how they feel.
11. Embrace both artistry and business aspects for success.
12. Know your audience and market your work accordingly.
13. Adapt to the digital age while staying true to your artistic vision.
14. Embrace new experiences and learn from failures.
15. Persistence is key to building a successful creative career.
16. Be open to trying new things and accepting initial shortcomings.

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Hailed by Bernard Haitink for the "infectious joy in his conducting and music-making," British conductor Jonathan Mann is in demand as both a performer and educator. He currently serves as the Music Director of the UK-based Ensemble Cambrica, the Artistic Director of the CIAC Conducting Academy, and a Consultant for Orchestras and Conducting with the Association of Music in International Schools.

Takeaways

1. Kayak Conducting Academy offers valuable opportunities for conductors to grow and connect with peers.
2. The virtual courses during the pandemic have positively impacted conductors worldwide.
3. Digital platforms play a crucial role in artist education, communication, and self-promotion.
4. Overcoming fear and embracing courage leads to greater opportunities and growth in the arts industry.
5. Young professionals should focus on building a strong online presence and professional image to attract agencies and advance their careers.
6. Take the initiative and create opportunities for yourself.
7. Utilize the internet to promote your work and develop your career.
8. Overcome shyness by leveraging digital tools for networking and self-promotion.
9. Prioritize communication and organization as a leader.
10. Continuously improve your skills, including writing biographies and using online platforms.
11. Seek advice from established artists and industry professionals.
12. Build connections and relationships for future opportunities.
13. Care for others and maintain high artistic standards.

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Angie Emily Joseph, a Naples native with Haitian roots, found her artistic calling at Florida Atlantic University. She deftly weaves narratives through watercolor, ink, and acrylics, drawing inspiration from botanical beauty. As a content coordinator at Demandwell, she merges her creative prowess with tech-driven strategies.

Takeaways

1. Angie Emily Joseph, a visual artist, uses her artistic medium to communicate stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
2. She embraces her identity as a first-generation American and a woman of color, aiming to inspire others with similar backgrounds.
3. Drawing from her Haitian heritage, Angie fearlessly incorporates vibrant colors into her artwork, even when exploring somber themes.
4. Her art challenges stereotypes associated with Haitian culture, showcasing the positive aspects and breaking misconceptions.
5. Angie's family members often serve as subjects in her work, highlighting the significance of family and portraying them in a positive light.
6. Through her art, she symbolizes the inclination to hide despair by depicting figures turning away or not showing their faces.
7. Despite exploring darker emotions, Angie's paintings exude stability and resilience, reminding viewers of the strength within.
8. Encouraging self-expression without apology is crucial in the arts, especially for students.
9. Balancing audience expectations and personal artistic vision is a common challenge.
10. The digital age provides opportunities and challenges for artists, including sharing work and dealing with criticism.
11. Valuing artwork involves considering time, materials, and additional costs.
12. Artists should recognize their worth and factor in expertise when pricing their work.

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Kirsten Milenko (b. 1993) is an Australian composer, conductor and orchestrator based in Paris. Her music embodies acoustic and electronic settings of an immersive and beautifully strange nature. As a conductor, her work began as an extension of composition and has since evolved across a diverse repertoire for concert and stage.

Takeaways

1. Kirsten's unconventional path to composition: She shifted from international relations to music, driven by her passion for playing and improvising on the piano.
2. Exploration and finding her voice: Kirsten's composition process involved gradual discovery, moving from improvisation to creating drafts and shaping her pieces by removing unnecessary elements.
3. The entrepreneurial side of being a composer: Kirsten emphasized the need to navigate the industry, considering oneself as both an artist and a workplace, addressing aspects like commission rates and score formatting.
4. Orchestration skills: Kirsten's natural affinity for orchestration, developed through extensive study, enabled her to adapt compositions to different instrumentations and explore new settings.
5. Remixing electronic works for orchestral settings: Kirsten worked on an exciting project, reimagining electronic music using contemporary techniques and creating a new tapestry of sounds.
6. Be proactive: Seek opportunities, even if you feel unqualified, and explore different paths to find your own.
7. Showcase value: Develop a strong portfolio that highlights your skills and communicates the relevance of your work.
8. Expand your horizons: Look beyond your field, find inspiration in other art forms, and learn from diverse trajectories.
9. Human connection is key: Cultivate positive relationships, effective communication, and collaboration for a supportive artistic environment.
10. Find joy in the process: Enjoy the journey of improvement, exploration, and creating meaningful work.
11. Adapt to the industry: Stay open to new possibilities and technology as the music industry evolves.
12. Professional attitude: Demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and positive interactions with colleagues.
13. Personal growth over validation: Focus on your own development and fulfillment rather than external recognition.
14. Embrace industry diversity: Explore various roles and career paths within the music industry.
15. Human connection is key: Cultivate positive relationships, effective communication, and collaboration for a supportive artistic environment.

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Alberto Acquilino is a PhD researcher in Computational Acoustics and Performance Science at McGill University, working on innovative technologies for music education. Tomlinson scholar and Global Leaders Program alumnus, Alberto holds 3 Masters in Music Performance & Mechanical Engineering from universities in Italy and France.

Takeaways

1. Alberto is dedicated to advancing music education through technology, with a focus on improving technical skills in areas such as pitch accuracy and attack clarity.
2. He aims to empower music teachers and enhance the learning experience for students by developing innovative tools and exercises.
3. Alberto recognizes the importance of human connection between teachers and students while utilizing technology to provide visualizations and multisensory experiences.
4. His ultimate goal is to make a positive global impact on music education, especially for beginner and intermediate-level students.
5. Feedback provided by technology promotes self-reflection, personalized learning paths, and the development of unique musical voices.

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Angela Sindeli is a highly accomplished soprano from Bucharest, Romania. She holds a Ph.D. in Myth, Seduction, and Mystery: Women in G.F. Handel's Opera. Angela has performed in prestigious venues worldwide and is a founding member of the duo La Locura. She teaches vocal pedagogy at the National University of Music Bucharest and coordinates European projects. Recently, she completed the Global Leaders Program.

Takeaways

1. Emphasizing artistic freedom and flexibility, Romanian artist Angela Delhi discussed her passion for singing, acting, and dancing.
2. Effective time management and maximizing the benefits of each role are essential for balancing a career in administration and art.
3. Succeeding in today's music industry requires musicians and artists to develop a wide range of skills, including personality, knowledge, self-promotion, and networking.
4. The integration of technology and the internet has transformed the music industry, requiring artists to adapt, maintain quality, and connect with their audience.
5. The traditional music education system now incorporates entrepreneurial skills and provides resources for students to shape their careers.
6. Artists should connect with their audience through personal engagement, accessibility, and unconventional settings.
7. Failure is an integral part of an artist's growth in the creative industries, fostering resilience and development.
8. To meet the evolving demands of the labor market, artists should remain open, flexible, and adaptable, seizing opportunities as they arise.

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Jennet Ingle is a passionate oboist, and principal of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra since 2006. She loves performing, teaching, and writing about the oboe. With a focus on new music, she premiered works like "Dreams and Visions" and "Oboe Concertino."

In 2020, Jennet built a supportive oboe community through programs like the Invincible Oboist, Reed Club, and Zero to Reedmaker. She sells handmade reeds worldwide, offers instructional resources, and shares insights through her blog, Prone Oboe.

Takeaways 

1. YouTube can significantly expand one's business and bring attention to the artist's work.

2. Advice for young professionals who are looking to have a career.

3. To find your superpower, identify the things you excel at and are passionate about. Then, seek opportunities where those abilities intersect with the needs of others.

4. While universities provide valuable education and knowledge, they cannot teach individuals everything they need to know in life.

5. We must seek help, find supportive coaches, and pursue relevant continuing education for personal growth.

6.  We cannot expect things to be given that we have to take agency and be involved.

7. Dealing with Burnout as a Musician

8. Prioritizing activities and pursuits that bring joy and fulfillment is a key factor in achieving personal success.

9. A platform like Zoom enables collaborative group work, meaningful conversations, and fostering friendships.

10. Adult amateur musicians are often overlooked most of the time.

11. The greater the support humans receive in their personal development, the happier the world becomes.

12. Advice for young people: focus on becoming more educated in building careers that are meaningful to you, rather than pursuing careers that were prescribed to you.

13. You don't have to know every step of the way before you start; it's enough to have a vision and see the first step.

14. Action begets action. 

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Wanayran Alvarez Angerer, is a singer, cultural promoter, mother, woman’s rights activist, and world traveler.  An ambassador of expressive therapies, the vast list of initiatives and social movements Wanny has her hand in includes Wanny Angerer in Moving Cultures, Cultural Stopovers, Wanny Angerer Music and Dance Therapy, Mujeres en las Artes, Ponchos Wanayran, and countless more.

Wanny was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras into a diverse community that traces its ethnicity to infusions of Spanish, Native Honduran, and African. From an early age, this amalgamation of diverse cultures had a huge effect on Wanny’s philosophy on life, cultivating in her an appreciation of global unity and the importance of the arts as a means of self-expression, and cultural connectivity. Wanny has traveled across Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean using arts and music to educate, unify and bring about positive change across the globe. In April 2018 Wanny was a guest for their Majesties the King and Queen of Sweden for the 10th Global Child Forum at the Stockholm Royal Palace. She is currently based in Bangkok Thailand.

Takeaways: 

1. The significance of utilizing your abilities to improve the lives of others.

2. When you realize your own potential and share it with others, fear and doubt vanish, making anything you aspire to achieve.

3. Art is not about fame, popularity, or conforming to the mainstream; it's about finding personal alignment.

4. Observe not merely to uplift others, but to encourage self-reflection in them as well.

5. Gaining insights into the various levels of your actions is essential.

6. The Moving Culture project and what they do.

7. Tribal communities prioritize collective living and awareness, while modern society isolates and restricts knowledge transmission between generations.

8. Modern society fosters self-centeredness, yet as individuals mature, they often find themselves alone, leading to feelings of discontentment and subsequent addiction.

9. Forge your own path, embracing life's mistakes as they shape us into well-rounded individuals.

10. Align your life with your work to avoid contradictions, eliminating the need for explanations as your ideas will speak for themselves.

11. Mainstream society links success with wealth and fame, whereas in our perspective, self-realization defines true success.

12. To young professionals preparing to enter the job market: Fearlessness and patience are crucial.

13. Act for others and yourself; what you need will come or be created by you.

14.  Young professionals must brand themselves as job opportunities are primarily found through scouting.

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Natalie is a dynamic artist focused on social impact. With a diverse range of roles including conductor, teaching artist, composer, writer, and arts administrator, she engages with communities of all ages and backgrounds. As a mezzo-soprano with a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance, Natalie brings her passion for Arabic music to her work as a guest singer, clinician, and choral arranger. Co-founder and co-director of Mosaic Music Collective, she connects people through intergenerational, multicultural songs. Natalie's artistic projects explore stories, cultures, and current social issues, challenging colonial and patriarchal systems. Her compositions and arrangements foster cross-cultural understanding and participatory art experiences. Natalie is dedicated to decentering whiteness and promoting equity, having completed the Ivey League-curated Global Leaders Program in social impact and arts. With expertise in equity-centered organizational development, she consults with arts organizations and leads workshops on decolonization, leadership, and social change.

Takeaways:

1. The importance of art in communities lies in its ability to empower individuals to express their voices, fostering democracy and civic engagement.
2. Art in a community enables genuine self-expression, fostering an environment for individuals to share and listen to diverse voices.
3. To combat funding cuts in teaching artistry, artists should proactively engage with the community, grasping its needs and priorities.
4. Embracing curiosity, experimentation, and the acceptance of mistakes is crucial in enabling genuine self-expression in a world driven by perfectionism.
5. Challenges like climate change, racism, food insecurity, and homelessness often stem from colonization's legacy.
6. Inclusive and non-judgmental spaces are crucial for artists to express sensitive topics safely.
7. Personal growth and expression paths are unique, with no path being superior to others.
8. In a society that often equates self-worth with productivity, it is important to recognize our inherent value as individuals, regardless of our level of productivity.
9. Embracing imperfections allows for personal growth and development.
10. Adopting a community-oriented approach to collaboration, rather than a competitive and perfectionistic mindset, can be a positive direction for the industry.
11. Advice for artists promoting social justice and leading fulfilling lives.
12. Seek out like-minded individuals and cultivate meaningful relationships within your artistic community.
13. Freelancers should be aware of their legal rights and value in the industry.

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Stanford Thompson is a musician and educator who serves as the Founder and Executive Director of Play On Philly and Founding Board Chairman of El Sistema USA and the National Instrumentalist Mentoring and Advancement Network. Recognized as a TED Fellow, Stanford believes that music is a powerful tool for positive personal and community change. Mr. Thompson serves on the faculty of the Global Leaders Program and regularly presents for major arts and business conferences, institutions, and stakeholders about leadership, entrepreneurship and social justice. As a principal of Goldsmith Strategies, he has guided the strategic development of dozens of organizations across the United States while collaborating with local and national initiatives to develop new strategies and programs that provide equitable access to the arts. As a professional trumpeter, Stanford has performed as a soloist and member with major orchestras around the world and continues to perform throughout the Philadelphia region. Stanford is a native of Atlanta, GA, a graduate of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program and holds degrees from The Curtis Institute of Music and the New England Conservatory’s Sistema Fellows Program

Takeaways

1. Building relationships with others is crucial for personal growth and success. It is important to establish meaningful connections, share talents, and uplift others.

2. It is powerful to be part of a wider collective and take charge of building our own networks instead of relying solely on big institutions.

3. Advice for nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

4. Organizations should prioritize relationship building and make time to develop meaningful connections.

5. Advice for young people in preparing themselves for the real world.

6. In the face of disruption, it is important to think ahead and prepare for the future, especially for young artists.

7. Advice for young musicians to encourage them to expound the possibilities that would work for them.

8. Young musicians should focus on developing their skills, keeping all options open, and exploring possibilities that work for them.

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Sidney Shapiro is an experienced male data professional with a passion for teaching and research. Currently an assistant professor of business analytics at the Dhillon School of Business at the University of Lethbridge, he inspires and guides students in their pursuit of knowledge and excellence in the field of business analytics. With over a decade of experience in data analysis, business intelligence, data science, and data engineering, Sidney specializes in building and automating data tools and products using Python and SQL to solve complex data problems. He has a diverse range of skills and knowledge, and his goal is to empower students to help organizations and business leaders make optimal decisions based on data.

Takeaways

1. Effective communication, creative problem-solving, and being open to possibilities lead to better results.

2. Information is readily available, and anyone can take advantage of it to learn new skills, even without a degree.

3. Tailoring information to the right audience is crucial.

4. Developing skills in using social media and technology is beneficial, starting from where you are and building capacity.

5. Communicating your value and building a high-quality network is essential for professionals.

6. Learning new ways to communicate with students and meeting them where they are is important.

7. Being prepared and building networks early is valuable advice for professionals.

8. Automated tools like CHAT GPT can assist in creating impressive resumes and cover letters, but they cannot replace the individuality and uniqueness that comes with a personal touch.

9. Understanding and going beyond the surface layer leads to greater learning and understanding.

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