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In this episode of Beyond Artless, we’re thrilled to welcome Steve Campbell, tubist with the Minnesota Orchestra, for a conversation that goes well beyond the low notes.

Steve shares what it’s really like to build a career in one of the world’s great orchestras—from the discipline and dedication behind orchestral excellence to the humor, humility, and humanity that keep music-making joyful. Along the way, he reflects on practice, preparation, and the often-unsung role of the tuba in shaping the sound and soul of an ensemble.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Steve’s path to the Minnesota Orchestra
• The realities of orchestral life and long-term musicianship
• Lessons learned from decades of performing at the highest level
• Advice for young musicians dreaming of orchestral careers
• Stories from the stage that are thoughtful, funny, and deeply musical

This episode is a celebration of craft, curiosity, and commitment—and a reminder that every great ensemble is built on musicians who listen deeply and lead from wherever they sit.

Tune in for wisdom, wit, and world-class musicianship—beyond artless.

CREDITS

Reflections of the Mississippi  The Quad City Symphony Orchestra, Steve Campbell, tuba, and Mark Russell Smith, conductor, perform Michael Daugherty's Reflections of the Mississippi, mvts. 3 and 4, on Sunday, October 2, 2016, in Centennial Hall, Rock Island, IL. https://youtu.be/kinQB_ZLAHw?si=J4IRmAdRG_8AomOJ

Marsalis' Tuba Concerto The rarely spotlighted tuba takes center stage in a recent concerto by the eminent composer, jazz trumpeter and bandleader Wynton Marsalis—fusing traditions ranging from classical to bebop to boogaloo. Of note are a passage in which the soloist plays the tuba and sings simultaneously, and a blistering finale that nods to bebop saxophonist Charlie “Bird” Parker. https://youtu.be/a6OEDekFJlw?si=_Se-uGpe4-T1rV70 Conductor Jonathan Taylor Rush led Principal Tuba Steven Campbell with the Minnesota Orchestra in this performance on May 19, 2023.

Esa-Pekka Salonen: Nyx  Esa-Pekka Salonen: Nyx (2010) Hannu Lintu, conductor Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra Helsinki Music Centre, 25 January 2013 The FRSO recorded this piece in 2011 in Helsinki. This is the Finnish concert premiere. The world premiere was performed in Paris. https://youtu.be/jm4wlf7VkCk?si=iISqCM4VY4E45a8z

Tango Corazon, Hanna Lehtonen For Grade 2-3 Trombone and Grade 3 Band: https://www.leadingtonesmusic.com/sto...  https://youtu.be/CSd2iwsYKe0?si=_nYdHwVjL6DAf_ec

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