openARTed

These are mini episodes where I read articles that I publish monthly on PianoBuffs Substack. I share essays, reflections, and research-informed insights on the pianist’s mind. I believe that piano practice can enrich us far beyond the keyboard.

I wrote this article after reading Deep Work by Cal Newport—a truly inspiring and insightful book if you feel, too, that we live in an overly chaotic and distracted world.

Throughout my musical career, I've been deeply interested in the science behind piano playing and musical performance itself. If you are interested in how music can help develop your brain, visit our Substack. More information about PianoBuffs here.

In these mini episodes, I read articles that I publish each month on the PianoBuffs Substack. I share essays, reflections, and research-informed insights on the pianist’s mind. I believe that piano practice can enrich us far beyond the keyboard!Join me on Substack

Learn more about PianoBuffs

In these mini episodes, I read articles that I publish each month on the PianoBuffs Substack. I share essays, reflections, and research-informed insights on the pianist’s mind. I believe that piano practice can enrich us far beyond the keyboard!

Join me on Substack

Learn more about PianoBuffs

In these mini episodes, I read articles that I publish each month on the PianoBuffs Substack. I share essays, reflections, and research-informed insights on the pianist’s mind. I believe that piano practice can enrich us far beyond the keyboard!Join me on Substack

Learn more about PianoBuffs

In these mini episodes, I read articles that I publish each month on the PianoBuffs Substack. I share essays, reflections, and research-informed insights on the pianist’s mind. I believe that piano practice can enrich us far beyond the keyboard.

Join me on Substack

Learn about PianoBuffs

In this episode of openARTed, I sit down with Susan Blum, a professional coach helping musicians and creatives navigate their careers. We dive into some of the biggest challenges artists face - from defining their artistic identity to managing time, finances, and collaboration.

Topics we cover:

What it really means to “know your offering” as a musician
Why so many music groups struggle with collaboration and conflict
Time management, avoiding burnout, and building financial stability
Do you really need to make music your full-time career to find fulfillment?

Support the Podcast:
If you’re enjoying openARTed, consider joining our Patreon or buying us a coffee - every contribution helps keep these conversations going! You can also check out PianoBuffs, our global piano community, where we share recordings, educational content, and more.

Guest Info:
Learn more about Susan Blum and her work at smblumltd.com

About the host Monika Lozinskienė

• PianoBuffs
• www.monikapianiste.com/
• Instagram

Music performed by M. Lozinskienė (piano), A. Szalucka (piano)

M. Ravel - Gaspard de la Nuit, No. 1, "Ondine"
M. K. Čiurlionis - In The Forest (From the album "Sound meditation" which is partly funded by the Vilnius municipality)

In this PART 2 episode, pianist Ewa Kupiec discusses her experiences as a concert pianist. She reflects on the influences that shaped her journey and shares book recommendations that have profoundly impacted her life philosophy. Listen to PART 1

Support the podcast via Patreon  or

Buy me a coffee

Books:
Sparks of Divinity 

An Actor Prepares

About the host Monika Lozinskienė

• PianoBuffs
• www.monikapianiste.com/
• Instagram

Music performed by M. Lozinskienė (piano), E. Kupiec (Piano)

M. Ravel - Gaspard de la Nuit, No. 1, "Ondine"
F. Chopin - Barcarole In F Sharp Major, Op. 60

In this episode, pianist Ewa Kupiec reveals her life story, career choices, and early passion for music. She is now one of the most sought-after piano professors in Europe, teaching at the Hanover University of Music, Drama, and Media. Her work with piano students blends music-making, mentorship, and mental preparation for lifelong careers in music.

Support the podcast via Patreon

About the host Monika Lozinskienė

• PianoBuffs
• www.monikapianiste.com/
• Instagram

Music performed by M. Lozinskienė (piano), E. Kupiec (Piano)

M. Ravel - Gaspard de la Nuit, No. 1, "Ondine"
F. Chopin - Mazurka In F-sharp Minor, Op. 59: No. 3
 

In this episode, I speak with Tristan de Montebello, a finalist in the 2017 World Championship of Public Speaking. Tristan is the co-founder of Ultraspeaking, a platform designed to help people become more confident and authentic speakers, which he created with his partner, Michael Gendler. But there’s more to it than just mastering public speaking. We explore how learning to speak confidently can transform your life—and how the journey of entrepreneurship profoundly shaped Tristan’s own path. Tune in to find out why these skills go beyond the stage and impact every aspect of life.

Support the podcast via Patreon

About the host Monika Lozinskienė

• PianoBuffs
• www.monikapianiste.com/
• Instagram

Music performed by M. Lozinskienė (piano), N. Kalmykova (violin), L. Loulaki (cello)

L. van Beethoven - Piano Trio in E-flat major, Op.70 No.2, II, IV mvt.
F. Mendelssohn Piano Trio No.1, Op.49 , II mvt.
C. Debussy - Clair de lune, M. Lozinskienė (piano)

Show Less

In Lithuania, Dalia Ibelhauptaitė's pioneering ideas on how to use advertising in the arts both inspired and surprised many. Through her determination and strong will, her independent opera company, Vilnius City Opera, became one of the most visited and well-known theater companies in Lithuania. She also mentored and trained a number of Lithuanian singers who are now recognized as some of the world's best. Dalia Ibelhauptaitė is also a producer and director of several blockbuster movies, including Ghosted (2023) and Rocketman (2019). 

Support the podcast via Patreon

About the host Monika Lozinskienė

• PianoBuffs
• www.monikapianiste.com/
• Instagram

Music performed by M. Lozinskienė (piano), N. Kalmykova (violin), L. Loulaki (cello)

L. van Beethoven - Piano Trio in E-flat major, Op.70 No.2, I, IV mvt.
F. Mendelssohn Piano Trio No.1, Op.49 , II mvt.
C. Debussy - Clair de lune, M. Lozinskienė (piano)