Feeding the Starving Artist: Finding Success as an Arts Entrepreneur

Douglas Droste rejoins the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast!

Doug is recognized as possessing an "obvious joy" for making music and a "sure sense of timing" when on the podium. Those under his baton routinely acknowledge his in-depth interpretations, keen sense of communication and personable ability to empower musicians.

Doug's guest conducting appearances include the INSO-Lviv Symphony Orchestra (Ukraine), and the orchestras of Kansas City, Indianapolis, Columbus, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Midland-Odessa, Fox Valley (IL), Chappaqua (NY), and the Amarillo Virtuosi. Equally at home in the pit, he has conducted over 30 productions of opera, ballet and musical theatre. Droste has also led eclectic shows with artists such as Black Violin, Ben Folds, The Flaming Lips, Pink Martini, Michael Cavanaugh, Time for Three, Christian Howes, and Disney’s All-American College Orchestra Alumni, among others. He previously served as artistic director of the Muncie Symphony Orchestra, where he was praised for dynamic performances, innovative programming and his rapport with musicians and community.

A dedicated teacher, Doug is director of orchestral studies at the Baldwin Wallace University Conservatory of Performing Arts, where he conducts the Baldwin Wallace Symphony Orchestra and teaches conducting. He regularly programs traditional repertoire, works by underrepresented composers, as well as new music by the composers of today. He also seeks unique collaborations and projects, such as Ron McCurdy’s Langston Hughes Project, sensory friendly concerts for children with special needs, and a recording with Tony Award winner Sutton Foster, "Take Me to the World," on the Ghostlight label.

Conductor Douglas Droste joins the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast. Doug is recognized as possessing "obvious joy" for making music and a "sure sense of timing" when on the podium. Those under his baton routinely acknowledge his in-depth interpretations, keen sense of communication and personable ability to empower musicians.

Doug's guest conducting appearances include the INSO-Lviv Symphony Orchestra (Ukraine), and the orchestras of Kansas City, Indianapolis, Columbus, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Midland-Odessa, Fox Valley (IL), Chappaqua (NY), and the Amarillo Virtuosi. Equally at home in the pit, he has conducted over 30 productions of opera, ballet and musical theatre. Droste has also led eclectic shows with artists such as Black Violin, Ben Folds, The Flaming Lips, Pink Martini, Michael Cavanaugh, Time for Three, Christian Howes, and Disney’s All-American College Orchestra Alumni, among others. He previously served as artistic director of the Muncie Symphony Orchestra, where he was praised for dynamic performances, innovative programming and his rapport with musicians and community.

A dedicated teacher, Doug is director of orchestral studies at the Baldwin Wallace University Conservatory of Performing Arts, where he conducts the Baldwin Wallace Symphony Orchestra and teaches conducting. He regularly programs traditional repertoire, works by underrepresented composers, as well as new music by the composers of today. He also seeks unique collaborations and projects, such as Ron McCurdy’s Langston Hughes Project, sensory friendly concerts for children with special needs, and a recording with Tony Award winner Sutton Foster, "Take Me to the World," on the Ghostlight label.

Dr. David Brubeck rejoins the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast.

Dave is an acclaimed bass trombonist, composer, and educator whose groundbreaking contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the world of brass performance. Best known for his innovative Stereograms—a collection of solo works for bass clef instruments published internationally—Brubeck has performed and recorded with legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Joni Mitchell. His scholarly work, including The Pedagogy of Arnold Jacobs, is frequently cited and reflects his dedication to advancing brass pedagogy.

A third cousin of jazz pianist Dave Brubeck, Dave has performed at prestigious festivals and venues around the globe, showcasing his artistry in solo and duo formats, including his celebrated group, Duo Brubeck.

As a professor of music and conductor, he has shaped generations of musicians, leading ensembles to national acclaim and developing innovative teaching methods. Dr. Brubeck's passion for performance and education continues to inspire audiences and students alike.

Visit ⁠davidbrubeck.com⁠ to explore his music, writings, and more.

Dr. David Brubeck joins the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast. Dave is an acclaimed bass trombonist, composer, and educator whose groundbreaking contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the world of brass performance. Best known for his innovative Stereograms—a collection of solo works for bass clef instruments published internationally—Brubeck has performed and recorded with legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Joni Mitchell. His scholarly work, including The Pedagogy of Arnold Jacobs, is frequently cited and reflects his dedication to advancing brass pedagogy.

A third cousin of jazz pianist Dave Brubeck, Dave has performed at prestigious festivals and venues around the globe, showcasing his artistry in solo and duo formats, including his celebrated group, Duo Brubeck. As a professor of music and conductor, he has shaped generations of musicians, leading ensembles to national acclaim and developing innovative teaching methods. Dr. Brubeck's passion for performance and education continues to inspire audiences and students alike.

Visit davidbrubeck.com to explore his music, writings, and more.

Linda Love-Simmons returns to the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast!

Linda is an award winning director and choreographer who has created special events from Los Angeles to New York City for Disney, Barbie, Monster High, the 2002 Olympics, Megan Mulally, Paramount Pictures, the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes, Holland America cruise lines, Sesame Street Live, Oakley, and Under Armor. 

Stage Choreography credits include SWING, A CHORUS LINE, THE PRODUCERS, LEGALLY BLONDE, 9 TO 5, THE PRODUCERS, THE CRYSTAL CATHEDRALS-CREATION, SAVIOR OF THE WORLD, ONCE, DISNEY’S  TARZAN and KINKY BOOTS.

For Disney, Linda is an entertainment show director and choreographer of hundreds special events and shows including, DISNEY CHANNEL FAN FEST,  THE ANIMATION ACADEMY, THE ALL AMERICAN COLLEGE BAND, THE DISNEYLAND BAND, THE YOUTH EDUCATION SERIES AND DISNEY PERFORMING ARTS.

More than just creating technical and energetic choreography and thoughtful dramatic pieces Linda has a personal mantra of creating positive success experiences.  By inspiring performers to strive for their very best and encouraging them to dwell in the realm of possibility there is passion and excitement in everything she does. Leading by example and having no tolerance for low expectations she creates an environment where everyone she works with can attain the same personal excellence that she strives for in herself.

Linda Love-Simmons is an award winning director and choreographer who has created special events from Los Angeles to New York City for Disney, Barbie, Monster High, the 2002 Olympics, Megan Mulally, Paramount Pictures, the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes, Holland America cruise lines, Sesame Street Live, Oakley, and Under Armor. 

Stage Choreography credits include SWING, A CHORUS LINE, THE PRODUCERS, LEGALLY BLONDE, 9 TO 5, THE PRODUCERS, THE CRYSTAL CATHEDRALS-CREATION, SAVIOR OF THE WORLD, ONCE, DISNEY’S  TARZAN and KINKY BOOTS.

For Disney, Linda is an entertainment show director and choreographer of hundreds special events and shows including, DISNEY CHANNEL FAN FEST,  THE ANIMATION ACADEMY, THE ALL AMERICAN COLLEGE BAND, THE DISNEYLAND BAND, THE YOUTH EDUCATION SERIES AND DISNEY PERFORMING ARTS.

More than just creating technical and energetic choreography and thoughtful dramatic pieces Linda has a personal mantra of creating positive success experiences.  By inspiring performers to strive for their very best and encouraging them to dwell in the realm of possibility there is passion and excitement in everything she does. Leading by example and having no tolerance for low expectations she creates an environment where everyone she works with can attain the same personal excellence that she strives for in herself.

Mary Jo Papich, rejoins the podcast. Known for her avid support and leadership in arts education, is the cofounder and was the first president of the Jazz Education Network. She has been recognized nationally and internationally for her efforts in arts education.

A music educator and fine arts administrator for over thirty-five years, Papich has garnered many honors and awards. Mary Jo’s recent accolades include having received the prestigious Medal of Honor from Midwest Clinic and the Lifetime Jazz Education Achievement Award from Downbeat magazine. JEN has honored her with giving the Mary Jo Papich Women in Jazz Scholarship to deserving students at their annual conference. Tau Beta Sigma band sorority presented her with the Outstanding Service to Music Education Award, and Chicago Jazz Institute presented her the Outstanding Jazz Educator of the Year Award in 2018.

Papich serves on the selection committee for the NARAS Grammy Music Educator of the Year Award, and on the board of directors and chairs the JEN Outreach/Community Engagement program, which has touched more than 60,000 lives since she started it in 2010.

MJ produces student jazz festivals in Puerto Vallarta and New Orleans and continues to work with students in Peoria Public Schools. Papich is the editor of The Jazzer’s Cookbook: Creative Recipes for Players and Teachers, published by Meredith Music.

Mary Jo Papich, known for her avid support and leadership in arts education, is the cofounder and was the first president of the Jazz Education Network. She has been recognized nationally and internationally for her efforts in arts education.

A music educator and fine arts administrator for over thirty-five years, Papich has garnered many honors and awards. Mary Jo’s recent accolades include having received the prestigious Medal of Honor from Midwest Clinic and the Lifetime Jazz Education Achievement Award from Downbeat magazine. JEN has honored her with giving the Mary Jo Papich Women in Jazz Scholarship to deserving students at their annual conference. Tau Beta Sigma band sorority presented her with the Outstanding Service to Music Education Award, and Chicago Jazz Institute presented her the Outstanding Jazz Educator of the Year Award in 2018.

Papich serves on the selection committee for the NARAS Grammy Music Educator of the Year Award, and on the board of directors and chairs the JEN Outreach/Community Engagement program, which has touched more than 60,000 lives since she started it in 2010.

MJ produces student jazz festivals in Puerto Vallarta and New Orleans and continues to work with students in Peoria Public Schools. Papich is the editor of The Jazzer’s Cookbook: Creative Recipes for Players and Teachers, published by Meredith Music.

Classical trumpeter Mary Elizabeth Bowden joins Rick and Ron again for another episode of the Feeding the Starving Artist podcast.

Mary Elizabeth is a highly in-demand soloist, praised for her “splendid, brilliant” playing (Gramophone Magazine) and her “pure, refined, and warm” tone (American Record Guide). A Gold Medal Global Music Award Winner, Opus Klassik Nominee, and Yamaha Performing Artist, Bowden works diligently to establish a new repertoire for the trumpet through creative, collaborative commissioning projects and award-winning albums.

Highlights of Bowden’s recent seasons include her debut with the Santa Fe Symphony, as well as prominent engagements with major international ensembles. During the 2022/2023 season, she performed as a soloist with the Busan Maru International Music Festival Orchestra in Korea and toured five cities in Argentina, performing Assad’s Bohemian Queen with the Shenandoah Conservatory Orchestra. She served as faculty at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival in summer 2022. 

Other recent performances include four world premiere concertos. Highlights include her debut with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, where she performs a program including Clarice Assad’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra and Shostakovich’s Concerto in C minor for Piano, Trumpet, and String Orchestra with pianist Henry Kramer. In another key debut, Bowden appears as a soloist with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, performing Reena Esmail’s Rosa de Sal and Assad’s Bohemian Queen. With the DuPage Symphony, she premieres a new arrangement of Gala Flagello’s Persist, newly arranged for two trumpets, and performs as soloist on Grace Williams’ Trumpet Concerto. She debuts with Oregon’s Rogue Valley Symphony in Henri Tomasi’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra before touring the Fung and Assad concertos to the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra, Akron Symphony Orchestra, Lexington Philharmonic, and Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra.

Bowden holds residencies and masterclasses at Oberlin College, Swarthmore College, the University of Michigan, Rogue Valley Symphony Orchestra, Central Michigan University, Michigan State University, Western Michigan University, Haverford College, Grand Valley State University and the Fine Arts Center of Greenville, SC. International engagements bring Bowden to the Isla Verde Bronces International Brass Festival in Argentina, Festival de Metales del Pacifico in Mexico, and Lieksa Brass Week in Finland. Bowden’s Chrysalis Chamber Players embark on a U.S. tour of trumpet and string quartet repertoire, presented by Live On Stage, and with Seraph Brass, Bowden is recording an album of new compositions for brass quintet for Tower Grove Records.

Classical trumpeter Mary Elizabeth Bowden joins Rick and Ron in another episode of the Feeding the Starving Artist podcat.

Mary Elizabeth is a highly in-demand soloist, praised for her “splendid, brilliant” playing (Gramophone Magazine) and her “pure, refined, and warm” tone (American Record Guide). A Gold Medal Global Music Award Winner, Opus Klassik Nominee, and Yamaha Performing Artist, Bowden works diligently to establish a new repertoire for the trumpet through creative, collaborative commissioning projects and award-winning albums.

Highlights of Bowden’s recent seasons include her debut with the Santa Fe Symphony, as well as prominent engagements with major international ensembles. During the 2022/2023 season, she performed as a soloist with the Busan Maru International Music Festival Orchestra in Korea and toured five cities in Argentina, performing Assad’s Bohemian Queen with the Shenandoah Conservatory Orchestra. She served as faculty at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival in summer 2022. 

Other recent performances include four world premiere concertos. Highlights include her debut with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, where she performs a program including Clarice Assad’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra and Shostakovich’s Concerto in C minor for Piano, Trumpet, and String Orchestra with pianist Henry Kramer. In another key debut, Bowden appears as a soloist with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, performing Reena Esmail’s Rosa de Sal and Assad’s Bohemian Queen. With the DuPage Symphony, she premieres a new arrangement of Gala Flagello’s Persist, newly arranged for two trumpets, and performs as soloist on Grace Williams’ Trumpet Concerto. She debuts with Oregon’s Rogue Valley Symphony in Henri Tomasi’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra before touring the Fung and Assad concertos to the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra, Akron Symphony Orchestra, Lexington Philharmonic, and Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra.

Bowden holds residencies and masterclasses at Oberlin College, Swarthmore College, the University of Michigan, Rogue Valley Symphony Orchestra, Central Michigan University, Michigan State University, Western Michigan University, Haverford College, Grand Valley State University and the Fine Arts Center of Greenville, SC. International engagements bring Bowden to the Isla Verde Bronces International Brass Festival in Argentina, Festival de Metales del Pacifico in Mexico, and Lieksa Brass Week in Finland. Bowden’s Chrysalis Chamber Players embark on a U.S. tour of trumpet and string quartet repertoire, presented by Live On Stage, and with Seraph Brass, Bowden is recording an album of new compositions for brass quintet for Tower Grove Records.