Today’s episode is with Nate Shaffer. Nate is a musician, composer, and the creative engine behind Sound Nows and Resonant Futures. But more than that, he’s a guy who is on a mission to completely change the way music is taught, held, and played with in our culture. After getting his Master’s degree in music composition and spending nearly a decade improvising and teaching at spots like ImprovBoston and Tufts University, Nate realized something profound: music isn't about perfection but rather sincerity. It's a teacher that connects us to ourselves, to each other, and to the present moment. Whether he's leading collaborative songwriting retreats in the woods of New Hampshire or helping people write songs from scratch in 30 minutes, Nate thrives on reading the energy of a room and creating spaces where raw creativity can be accessed and explored. During the show, we talk about what happens when creativity gets boxed in by rigid rules, and what's unlocked when we choose authenticity over perfection. We dig into his journey from classical concert halls and comedy theaters to finding transformative practices and creating magical musical moments for himself and others. We get into how music acts as a literal tool for survival and connection, the magic of shared improvisation, and why making art should actually feel good. This conversation is real, and its deep. Nothing gets me more excited than seeing people create spaces for genuine human connection, and Nate is doing exactly that.Giddy upConnect with Nate:https://nateshaffer.substack.com/https://www.instagram.com/soundnows/

Join him for the Songwriters Soiree where he is hosting a large community gathering June 20th at Sacred Nectar Sanctuary. Pot luck, more than 100 people signing, sauna and more! More info and tickets available here:

https://partiful.com/e/0QyBTCBId9kmpNuWfhsx