Daniel Minsteris is a versatile keyboardist, programmer, and musical director best known for his extensive work with visionary artists like St. Vincent and David Byrne. Widely lauded for his deep expertise in Ableton Live, Daniel is a master at bridging the gap between the studio and the stage, seamlessly integrating complex electronic production with live performance. Beyond his high-profile touring work, Daniel has made his mark as a composer. In this episode, we sit down with Daniel to discuss his unique approach to live show design, his philosophy on keeping performance rigs reliable on the road, and his experiences sharing stages with some of modern music’s most innovative acts. We also dive into specific gear preferences and the challenges of translating meticulously crafted studio albums into massive live shows.

To listen / watch:

Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):  

Daniel’s past year or so

Joining David Byrne on his current ‘Who Is The Sky?’ tour

Daniel in action on the 2013 St Vincent / David Byrne ‘Love This Giant’ tour

Daniel in full mobile mode with David Byrne

Ray Suen

Daniel’s musical upbringing including early years in Lithuania

Working with Joy Askew

Joining Marianne Faithfull’s band

Daniel in action live with Marianne Faithfull

Daniel with Fernando Saunders – See The Light

The Roland A-90

Working with Peter Cincotti

Daniel with Peter Cincotti at Montreaux 2009

A discussion on playing strings and horns as a keyboard player

The Ghost Train Orchestra performing on David Byrne’s ‘Everybody Laughs’

Audio Modeling’s SWAM Strings

Meeting Annie Clark / St Vincent and joining her band

Daniel performing live with St Vincent at Glastonbury 2014

Prepping sounds for a St Vincent tour

Drummer Matt Johnson

Daniel’s conflicted thoughts on redundancy management in a complex rig 

Preparing for David Byrne’s ‘Who is the Sky?’ tour

Divisimate by Nextmidi

A detailed discussion on Daniel’s 100% wireless and mobile keyboard rig with David Byrne

Daniel live with David Byrne in 2026

Implementing a large-scale wireless MIDI rig and tracking down some critical legacy equipment

Sensory Percussion software for drummers

Fascinating discussion on developing the means to use arms / elbows  for expression pedals instead of feet, in conjunction with keyboard tech Arturo Leon.

Arduino hardware

Working with Joe Jackson on the ‘What A Racket’ tour

Daniel in action live with Joe Jackson

Working with Steve Nieve

Collaborating with Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell Ndegocello – Burn Progression

Daniel recounts two notable train wrecks

Daniel’s online course on troubleshooting MIDI and audio

Desert Island Discs: Facing You – Keith Jarrett, Homogenic – Bjork, Animals – Pink Floyd, Todo Corazon – Julio De Caro, Turangalîla-Symphonie – Olivier Messiaen

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The post Daniel Mintseris, David Byrne / St Vincent / Joe Jackson / Marianne Faithfull / Meshell Ndegeocello appeared first on The Keyboard Chronicles.