Reoccurring dreams of Peter Gabriel urging her to pursue a career in music led Colette Alexander to play the cello at sold-out shows while touring with the likes of Josh Groban. But at a Madison Square Garden gig she had a solo epiphany: She wanted more. In this inaugural episode of 5 to 9, host and Jellyfish CEO Andrew Lau learns the finer points of touring with rock bands as a professional cellist direct from Colette Alexander. Colette shares how she stays in tune with music while making things work as a parent, a master’s student, and an engineering manager at Hashicorp.

Five Highlights:

• One: Musical Revelation: Ever had a surreal moment where music spoke to you in your dreams? Colette shares her mind-blowing experience of being urged by Peter Gabriel (or at least a dream version of him) to pursue a music career.
• Two: Balancing Act: Learn how Colette juggles being a mom of two, a director of engineering, and a master's student.
• Three: Behind the Scenes: Dive into the backstage world of professional cello-playing, from touring with renowned singers like Josh Groban to the electrifying energy of performing at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden.
• Four: Classical Music Meets Tech: Uncover how Colette uses guitar effects pedals and live looping to create a wall of layered sound with one cello.
• Five: The Marriage of Art and Engineering: Discover how Colette draws upon her experiences in the music industry to inform her approach as an engineering manager.

Jump Into the Conversation:

[03:53] The pathway to becoming a professional cellist. 
[07:35] Colette’s life-changing epiphany. 
[19:12] How to produce professional music from a home studio. 
[21:20] What Colette learned about engineering management from touring with rock bands.