To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with professional cellist Marc Christian to explore how musicians can build a profitable and deeply fulfilling career in the wedding and special events space.

Marc shares how he transitioned from classical cello training and large-stage performances into a thriving wedding music business—one that provides both financial stability and meaningful service through music.

Marc Christian is a professional cellist who began playing cello at the age of nine and pursued formal classical training through college at Cal State Northridge. While originally on a traditional orchestral path, Marc realized he wanted a more creative and personal approach to music.

After performing with bands, singer-songwriters, and high-profile events in Los Angeles, including Grammy-related work, Marc shifted his focus to weddings and special events. Over the past five years, he has built a highly successful wedding music business, becoming a preferred vendor at more than 20 venues and performing hundreds of events.

Marc is known for tailoring each performance to the couple and the moment, creating emotionally powerful experiences that elevate life’s most important milestones.What You’ll Learn

- How Marc transitioned from classical music to a profitable wedding music career

- Why tailoring music to each event creates unforgettable experiences

- How musicians can grow confident in pricing and value over time

- Why small gigs can lead to big opportunities

- How service and emotional impact support long-term fulfillment

- Why success as a musician should include both income and purpose

Topics Covered in This Episode- Starting cello at a young age and classical training

- Leaving the orchestral path for creative freedom

- Building a wedding and special events music business

- Tailoring music for ceremonies and guest experiences

- Pricing confidence and turning down low-paying gigs

- Building reputation through referrals and venues

- The emotional impact of music in weddings, funerals, and hospitals

- Defining success as service and financial stability

If you’re a musician searching for a career that combines creativity, service, and sustainability, this episode offers powerful insight into how music can become both a calling and a livelihood.

Connect with Marc Christian

Website

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Successful Musicians Podcast, Jason Tonioli sits down with Mark Spier, President and CEO of Royalty Solutions, to unpack how music royalties really work and why so many artists are leaving money on the table.

Mark founded Royalty Solutions in 2009 with a mission to bring transparency, accuracy, and efficiency to royalty processing and music publishing. With more than 30 years of experience across music publishing, technology, and finance, he brings a rare, well-rounded perspective to the evolving music rights landscape.

He is also the third-generation President of Memory Lane Music Group, a family-owned publishing company established in 1921. The company’s catalog includes songs that have been recorded, covered, and sampled by some of the biggest artists in the world. Mark holds a degree in Computer Science from Colgate University and an MBA from Columbia Business School, and previously worked at IBM and Credit Suisse.

Through his work at Royalty Solutions and Memory Lane Music Group, Mark helps artists, labels, and publishers maximize royalty income, properly register their works, and protect their rights in the digital age.

What You’ll Learn

This conversation explores how the music industry has shifted from physical sales to streaming and digital distribution, and what that means for royalty collection today. Mark explains why understanding music publishing, performance royalties, and mechanical royalties is essential for independent artists. He also breaks down the role of organizations like the MLC and why correct registration is critical to getting paid.

Jason and Mark discuss the common mistakes artists make as they move from hobbyists to professionals, why unclaimed royalties are so common, and when it makes sense to bring in experts to manage the business side of music.

Topics Covered in This Episode

- How music royalties work in the streaming era

- The difference between publishing, performance, and mechanical royalties

- The role of the MLC and why registration matters

- Why many independent artists miss out on royalty income

- How audits can uncover unpaid or misreported royalties

- When artists should consider professional royalty administration

- Protecting your music rights while scaling your career

If you are an independent musician, songwriter, label owner, or publisher looking to better understand music royalties and maximize your earnings, this episode offers practical insights from someone who has spent decades inside the system.

Listen now to learn how to take control of your music rights and get paid what you are owed.

Connect with Mark Spier

Website

Royalty Solutions’ LinkedIn

Mark’s LinkedIn

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠.

Daniel Blomberg is a Swedish music producer, arranger, and composer based in the United States. He is known for helping songwriters transform raw ideas into polished, world-class productions that have reached millions of listeners across YouTube and streaming platforms. From growing up in a small village in Sweden to building a thriving music production business in the U.S., Daniel’s career is shaped by a deep focus on mindset, collaboration, and understanding the music business. His latest release, Sacred Christmas II, reflects this same commitment to excellence and is now available through Uplift Music.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode of The Successful Musicians Podcast, Daniel shares how his upbringing in Sweden and his years outside of music helped shape his approach to producing and entrepreneurship. He explains why mindset and business skills matter just as much as musical talent, how working with hobbyist songwriters became a powerful niche, and why building the right team accelerates success. You’ll also hear Daniel’s insights on overcoming self-doubt, investing in yourself, and learning to serve your audience at a higher level as a musician.

Things We Discussed

Daniel talks about his journey from studying music in Sweden to stepping away from music for several years before returning with a renewed perspective. He reflects on the importance of understanding the music business, surrounding yourself with people who complement your strengths, and letting go of the belief that you must do everything yourself. The conversation also explores marketing, hiring help, learning through books and podcasts, and why many musicians stall not because of lack of talent, but because of fear, comfort, and mindset barriers.

Connect with Daniel Blomberg

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠episode blog⁠.

Panu Aaltio is an award-winning Finnish film composer known for his evocative scores that blend classical tradition, experimental textures, and modern storytelling. From his early days studying at the Sibelius Academy to composing for internationally recognized films and documentaries, Panu has built a career defined by curiosity, intuition, and a deep love for the craft of music. His work spans feature films, television, and documentaries, with a style that captures both emotional depth and cinematic scope. You can explore more of his credits on IMDb. His latest film, Little Siberia, is now streaming on Netflix.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode of The Successful Musicians Podcast, Panu shares how his upbringing, education, and love for both computers and film shaped his unique approach to composing. He explains how intuition, experimentation, and collaboration with directors allow him to capture the deeper meaning behind stories. You’ll also hear about his early struggles with self-doubt, how subconscious problem-solving plays into his creative process, and why focusing on the joy of making music matters more than external success.

Things We Discussed
Panu talks about his journey from playing cello as a child to becoming one of Finland’s most respected composers. He reflects on the lessons he learned working with directors, the importance of experimenting without fear of failure, and the way subconscious creativity often provides breakthroughs when composing. He also shares memorable experiences from his first feature film recording in London, working with experimental vocal groups, and the evolving perspective that keeps him grounded and inspired as a musician.

Connect with Panu Aaltio

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the episode blog.

Fabiana Claure is a pianist, educator, and entrepreneur who has dedicated her career to helping musicians move beyond the “starving artist” model and into sustainable, thriving businesses. After co-founding a successful music academy and directing the music business program at the University of North Texas, she launched her coaching company to empower musicians around the world. Through her Musicians’ Profit Umbrella® framework, Fabiana helps artists turn their skills, knowledge, and stories into high-value online businesses that create both financial freedom and artistic fulfillment.

What You’ll Learn

Fabiana shares her journey from finishing her doctorate to launching businesses in the busiest season of her life. She explains why universities can be fertile ground for entrepreneurship, how internships and networking can open unexpected doors, and why musicians should stop trading time for money. You’ll learn about the four steps she uses to guide musicians toward profitable online business models, how to package your knowledge into premium offers, and why delegating is key to avoiding burnout.

Things We Discussed

Jason and Fabiana dive deep into the tension between traditional music education and the realities of building a career. They discuss how musicians can take ownership of their opportunities instead of waiting for permission, the importance of building a personal brand that reflects more than just skills, and why investing in yourself can change your career trajectory. Fabiana also opens up about her own lessons learned, including the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and her wish that she had started delegating much earlier in her journey.

Connect with Fabiana Claure

Website

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Brent Maher is a seven-time Grammy Award–winning producer, engineer, and songwriter whose career has helped define the sound of American music. Known for his work with The Judds, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Tina Turner, Brent’s influence spans across genres and generations. From his early beginnings in the Air Force to producing Elvis Presley’s final number-one record, his story is one of perseverance, creativity, and heart. Most recently, he released The Night of the Orphan Train, an original audiobook and musical project that blends storytelling with songs inspired by real American history—available now on Audible, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

What You’ll Learn

In this inspiring conversation, Brent shares how perseverance, purpose, and sacrifice shape a fulfilling music career. He talks about the true definition of success—not in fame or awards, but in finding happiness and meaning in what you do. You’ll also discover the creative process behind The Night of the Orphan Train, and how stories of resilience from history can inspire powerful art today.

Things We Discussed

Brent reflects on his decades-long career, the lessons learned from working with musical legends, and the deep drive that keeps artists moving forward. He opens up about the personal sacrifices behind success, the challenge of balancing passion with family life, and the importance of defining happiness on your own terms. The episode also dives into the inspiration behind The Night of the Orphan Train—how a roadside sign sparked a heartfelt project that combines history, emotion, and music to tell the forgotten stories of thousands of orphaned children in early America. Jason and Brent close the conversation by exploring what it truly means to be a “successful musician” and how fulfillment often comes from helping others find joy through music.

Connect with Brent Maher

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Kurt Bestor is an Emmy Award–winning composer, arranger, and performer whose music has touched audiences around the world. With a career spanning over four decades, he has written and produced scores for film, television, and stage, and is best known for his beloved song “Prayer of the Children.” Each year, his Christmas concerts bring together fans from all generations, celebrating both tradition and creativity.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode, you’ll learn how Kurt approaches composition as storytelling, why being teachable and adaptive keeps creativity alive, and how persistence and authenticity can sustain a long and meaningful career in music.

Things We Discussed
Kurt Bestor shares the lessons he’s learned throughout his remarkable journey as a composer and performer. He talks about how technology has changed the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and why connecting emotionally with audiences matters more than chasing perfection. He also reflects on balancing the art and business of music, staying curious, and continuing to learn—no matter how long you’ve been in the industry.

Connect with Kurt Bestor

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

Brian Claeys, Alex Cote, and Jesse Hartov are accomplished composers and collaborators whose work spans a variety of genres and mediums. From bringing mythical worlds like Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians to life, to scoring heartfelt dramas and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, their combined talents have earned them recognition in the world of film and TV music. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for storytelling through sound make them a powerhouse creative team.

What You’ll Learn

Discover the creative process behind scoring for different genres, the collaboration dynamics between composers, and how musical themes evolve to enhance storytelling. You’ll hear how Brian, Alex, and Jesse balance their artistic voices while meeting the demands of directors, producers, and audiences.

Things We Discussed

They talked about the inspirations and challenges behind their recent projects, including the intricate themes in Percy Jackson and the Olympians and other notable films they’ve scored. The conversation also explored their early beginnings in music, their workflow as a team, the role of technology in composing, and their advice for aspiring musicians looking to break into the industry.

Connect with Brian Claeys, Alex Cote, & Jesse Hartov

Brian’s website

Alex’ website

Jesse’s website

Sparks & Shadows Website⁠

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

Natasha Barbieri is a New York–based mezzo-soprano and the founder of Crossover Music Magazine.  She’s interviewed major crossover stars like Sarah Brightman, Paul Potts, and members of Celtic Woman. Beyond her editorial work, Natasha performs with her sister as the duo Crystal & Natasha and is also known as “A Singing Wife.” Her mission is to uplift musicians who are blending classical music with modern influences — all while staying true to who they are.

What You’ll Learn

Discover what classical crossover really means and why it’s more than just mixing genres — it’s about honoring tradition while staying true to your creative voice. Natasha Barbieri shares how authenticity sets great artists apart, why gimmicks don’t last, and what musicians can do to build a lasting presence. You’ll also learn how to approach media coverage the right way, how to prepare yourself with the right materials, and what makes artists stand out to editors like her. Natasha also opens up about her own journey, why she created Classical Crossover Magazine, and how she’s now helping musicians succeed through artist coaching, storytelling, and media strategy.

Things We Discussed

We talked about how classical crossover is about “not letting the tradition get stagnant, bringing some new life to it.” Natasha reflects on artists who innovate naturally, saying, “The successful people — it’s authentic. They’re not staying in one box. They’re bringing new palettes into what they do.”

She shares insights on working with big names: “Some of the most successful people are the easiest to work with. They’re kind, generous, and prepared. Sarah Brightman could not have been nicer.”

For artists looking to gain media attention, Natasha offers real advice: “Know your USP. (Unique Selling Point) Get organized with your materials. Give something exclusive. You can’t be everything — so figure out what makes you different.”

We also touched on her possible coaching program for artists, which would include one-on-one sessions, help with telling their story, and planning media features that make a real impact.

Connect with Natasha

Website

Spotify

YouTube

Facebook

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music

For the entire interview transcript, please ⁠click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

Steve Matthew Carter is a Nashville-based media composer for film, TV, and advertising. He most recently scored Gazer (2025), a neo-noir thriller directed by Ryan J. Sloan, which premiered at Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and is distributed by Metrograph Pictures.

His music has also appeared in The Other Guys, Escaping Ohio, The Tomorrow Job, and national ad campaigns for brands like Honda and Body Armor (2024 Super Bowl). Steve’s work spans dozens of film festivals, music libraries, and TV networks, including Netflix, Bravo, TLC, and History.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode, Steve opens up about the myth of linear success, the pressure to "make it" young, and how wandering can be part of the creative process. He shares why it’s okay to have gaps in your journey and how those quieter moments often lead to a deeper artistic identity.

Things Discussed: Rather than chasing clout or traditional networking, Steve believes in “friend collecting”—building real, lasting creative relationships with people you respect and enjoy. He encourages younger musicians to stop waiting for permission and start making the kind of work they wish existed in the world—with friends, collaborators, and a sense of purpose.

Steve also offers practical advice: know your strengths, and let your style become your signature. Whether you’re the go-to guitar player or someone still exploring their aesthetic, his message is the same—be real, be kind, and keep making things.

Connect with Steve Matthew Carter

Official Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Imdb

X

Connect with Jason Tonioli

Website 

Facebook

YouTube 

Instagram

Spotify

Pandora

Amazon Music

Apple Music