Michael R. Oldham is a composer and pianist from Chicago. Michael's compositions work with variations on a theme -- themes punctuated by so many individual motifs, then revisited as an oblique variation, as if the living theme is undergoing a rapid metamorphosis.

Michael cites surrealism as an influence on his work, and it can sound as if the music is playing tricks on you, as if a pattern of notes could change colors before your eyes.

Michael told me about some of his early experiences with music and movies, his dreams of Hollywood, and how he uses storytelling and visual art to add layers of depth to his inspired work.

This episode features:

"The Apartment" (From 3 Vignettes)

"Crying in Topanga Canyon," and "A Solitary Venture On An Accidental Breeze" (from Los Angeles Miseries)

"The Kiss," and "Mad Hatter Romance", from the forthcoming album In Select Theaters, and

"Secret Volcanic" (from "Grand Delusions on a Small Scale.")

All pieces written and performed by Michael R. Oldham. Violin on "The Apartment" was performed by Lillian Chou.

Check out www.MichaelROldham.com for more music