“It’s very unlikely I'll have a full-time position with an orchestra as a pianist as my career. That is not a thing that happens to too many people these days. So, if not that, sink or swim, I have to start thinking about my career in a different way.”

Marianne Parker is one of the most active and vibrant musicians I know. Just to name a few things she has going on: performances and commissioning works with her piano and marimba duo, L&M; recording works by Haitian composers; curating an anthology of 21st century works for solo piano through New Music Shelf; producing performances with New Music Chicago along with other administrative tasks; a packed performance and teaching schedule; and still has time to spend with her family, go to parks with her lovely dog, build a garden, hiking, running, what else?!

The great thing about Marianne, amongst her active and busy lifestyle, is she always has a very positive and joyous attitude. And this entirely comes through in our conversation. We discuss nearly all of the things listed above, along with what it’s like learning to compose from a performers perspective, the upcoming premiere of Stephanie Ann Boyd’s Flower Catalog, comedy podcasts, Ear Taxi, New Music Gathering, the pairing concerts with violist Michael Hall, and so much more in episode 18 of the Making Noise Podcast. 

I hope you enjoy!

Follow Marianne’s Work: www.marianneparker.com
Twitter: @mariannep_piano
Insta: mrrrranne

Stephanie Ann Boyd’s Flower Catalog: https://www.stephanieannboyd.com/flower-catalog

NewMusicShelf Anthology for Solo Piano, Volume 1: https://www.newmusicshelf.com/product/anthology-solo-piano-vol-1/

“Pages intimes” debut album: https://marianneparker.bandcamp.com/releases

“Pyano Sa” album of works by Gifrants: https://open.spotify.com/album/3u6suWwJYlOvkoByvSnRIv (stream/Spotify), https://www.amazon.com/Pyano-Sa-Gifrants/dp/B08QMKN7DV (digital download/Amazon)

Learn more about the upcoming Ear Taxi Festival currently at https://www.newmusicchicago.org/faqs/ , and starting in July at www.eartaxifestival.com.

Chicago chocolatier from the pairings concert: Katherine Anne Confections

The Haitian-American (Montreal-based) composer is: Gifrants

Watch the podcast on YouTube

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where you can listen to music, purchase scores, and learn how to commission a new piece for your ensemble.