The Mind Over Finger Podcast

Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we’re tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We’ll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that’s right for you. I’ll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—to help you make decisions that bring you closer to the life you want.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music.

We discuss:

• The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire
• How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation
• Strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and staying grounded in high-pressure moments
• Insights into creating a fulfilling, purpose-driven career in music

Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration from Zlatomir’s journey.

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a life that feels purposeful and joyful? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT ZLATOMIR FUNG

Website:  https://www.zlatomirfung.com/

YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZCNT8-PCgY1Md-ZzjvAUQ

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zfungcello

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zfungcello

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life’s complexities. If you’re interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can create meaningful change in both personal and professional spheres, this episode is for you.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met.

Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with life as a performer and educator, and her unique approach to audition preparation. Sasha also shares her advocacy for the transgender community and offers practical advice on how we can all be better allies.

This episode is full of valuable insights for musicians at any stage of their journey, and Sasha’s wisdom on practice efficiency, emotional management, and living authentically is sure to inspire.

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a life that feels purposeful and joyful? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT SASHA ROMERO

• Website:  https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRomeroMusic
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sasha.romero.music
• LGBTQ Resources: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/lgbtq-resources
• Transgender - A guide: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/trans-guide
• Being an ally: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/being-an-ally
• Videos: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/videos
• How to create practice tracks: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4i5T-ngjfo/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss:

• Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it
• How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success
• Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mindset to achieve their goals
• Practical steps you can take to cultivate this feeling and apply it to your personal and professional growth

Listen now and discover how this simple shift can have a profound impact on your year.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing.

We discuss:

• The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance
• The role of errors in learning
• Internal vs. external focus in performance
• The power of mental practice and personalized routines
• The benefits of using a timer and recording device in practice
• The importance of taking breaks
• Tune in for insights that can transform your practice and performance!

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a purposeful and joyful life? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT MOLLY GEBRIAN

• Website:  https://www.mollygebrian.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/DrMollyGebrian
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollygebrian/
• Buy her book, Learn Faster, Perform Better here: https://amzn.to/4dTqSLK

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. 

Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone by being transparent, and having clear steps to handle sexual harassment and assault. 

Finally, we touch on the power dynamics and gender issues in the classical music world and the difficulty of addressing these issues in a society that often prefers to stay silent 

**CLARIFICATION: During the conversation, it was inaccurately stated that the union reinstated the NY Phil musicians. The union brought the case to arbitration, and the arbitrator ultimately ruled in favor of reinstating them in their positions.**

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT LARA ST. JOHN

• Website:  https://www.larastjohn.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@StJohnLara
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AncalagonRecords
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stjohnlara/
• Lara St. John & the Curtis Institute: https://larastjohn.club/ 

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): https://www.rainn.org/

• Offers support, information, and a hotline for victims of sexual assault.

National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): https://www.nsvrc.org/

• Provides resources and information on sexual violence prevention and support for survivors.

Me Too Movement: https://metoomvmt.org/

• Advocacy and support network for survivors of sexual violence.

Time's Up: https://timesupnow.org/

• An organization that addresses workplace sexual harassment and inequality.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): https://www.eeoc.gov/

• Federal agency providing information and support on workplace discrimination and harassment.

National Women’s Law Center (NWLC): https://nwlc.org/

• Provides legal information and resources related to sexual harassment and gender equality in the workplace.

Writers Guild of America’s “MYConnext” Tool: https://www.wga.org/members/employment-resources/know-your-rights

• Resource for reporting workplace harassment and finding support.

The Black Orchestral Network: https://www.blackorchestralnetwork.org/

• Advocacy for equity in orchestral settings, including addressing issues of harassment and discrimination.

American Federation of Musicians (AFM): https://www.afm.org/

• Union providing support and resources for musicians, including initiatives against harassment.

Chicago Federation of Musicians’ #NotMe App: https://cfm10208.com/musician-resources/fair-employment-practices-and-notme

• An app for reporting harassment within the music industry.

Change the Culture Committee – Proposal Document: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13f_eQl2VEaRF1pxIKkdsUcJr4mEmNy87/view?usp=sharing

Lara St-John & The Curtis Institute – Articles catalog: https://larastjohn.club/ 

Sammy Sussman – Articles catalog: https://sammysussman.com/reporting?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0KtQ42ZfE7azBHCTWlp5ErasRAyAYWAjrdzwBOPPPAJmlCZcmwnH3kAlQ_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw 

A Hidden Sexual-Assault Scandal at the New York Philharmonic - Two musicians were fired for sexual misconduct. Why are they back with the orchestra?  https://www.vulture.com/article/new-york-philharmonic-sexual-assault-scandal.html

Abused, then mocked- acclaimed violinist says she was sexually assaulted by her renowned teacher at the Curtis institute, and then disregarded when she reported it  https://www.inquirer.com/news/a/lara-st-john-sexual-abuse-jascha-brodsky-curtis-institute-philadelphia-20190725.html

They Wouldn't Believe Me https://larastjohn.club/philadelphia-inquirer-subsequent-articles/they-wouldnt-believe-me-1

Top Music School Finds Sexual Abuse Allegations From Violinist 'Credible' https://www.npr.org/2020/09/23/916108440/top-music-school-finds-sexual-abuse-allegations-from-violinist-credible

Investigative Report 2020 - Statement from the Curtis Institute Board of Trustees https://www.curtis.edu/about/institutional-policies/investigative-report-2020/

The evolution of #MeToo https://www.michigandaily.com/arts/evolution-metoo/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR01peoxpx0nkteuYsbKRI7YGmItXKk-AmiymMtHSLFyOkcfexxLq8UH0BY_aem_WbvxwAylau31GKIPEcDNvw

Tainted History - Former Juilliard composition students share allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct https://van-magazine.com/mag/juilliard-sexual-harassment/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1p_C22c0w4D-YFUyxca3r-uDaaHapH5Ef9Lwbfejr4S4toB0ImL5vZP8o_aem_JvRLjIQ8FxqIBJdzJXQfnA

Cleveland Orchestra Fires Two Musicians for Sexual Misconduct https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/24/arts/music/cleveland-orchestra-sexual-harassment-misconduct.html#:~:text=The%20accusations%20first%20surfaced%20in,and%20making%20a%20lewd%20advance.%E2%80%9D

Calgary Philharmonic removes two musicians after month-long investigation over ‘troubling comments’ https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/theatre-and-performance/article-calgary-philharmonic-removes-two-musicians-after-month-long/

Assaults in dressing rooms. Groping during lessons. Classical musicians reveal a profession rife with harassment. https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/music/assaults-in-dressing-rooms-groping-during-lessons-classical-musicians-reveal-a-profession-rife-with-harassment/2018/07/25/f47617d0-36c8-11e8-acd5-35eac230e514_story.html

Music professor retires from Rice following allegations of inappropriate conduct with female students https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/2024/05/29/488887/rice-william-vermeulen-allegations-inappropriate-conduct-female-students/

Demondrae Thurman no longer serving in Jacobs School of Music roles after sexual misconduct allegations https://www.idsnews.com/article/2024/05/demondrae-thurman-no-longer-serving-jacobs-school-of-music-sexual-misconduct-allegations

Music’s Perpetually Open Secret - 18 years after they were first reported, allegations of sexual harassment at the Butler School of Music have continued https://van-magazine.com/mag/open-secret/

Former students bring 40 years of misconduct allegations against SMTD professor - https://www.michigandaily.com/news/community-affairs/former-students-bring-40-years-misconduct-allegations-smtd-professor/

As sentencing nears for violinist, four women say he sexually abused them while at UNC school - https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article260382977.html

Violin professor who taught around the world is charged with sex attack  https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/royal-college-of-music-london-alfie-boe-south-africa-borough-b2285682.html

James Levine’s Final Act at the Met Ends in Disgrace  https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/12/arts/music/james-levine-metropolitan-opera.html

Opera Star David Daniels Pleads Guilty to Sexual Assault  https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/04/arts/opera-star-david-daniels-guilty-plea-sexual-assault.html

Royal College of Music investigating misconduct complaints https://www.thetimes.com/culture/music/article/royal-college-of-music-investigating-misconduct-complaints-8nhkp0qx6

Senior professor at Royal College of Music quits over health issues after complaints of gross misconduct upheld  https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13305193/royal-college-music-senior-professor-quits-health-issues-gross-misconduct.html

Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward?  Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you!

In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place:

1. Lack of clear vision and goals
2. Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present
3. Fear of making decisions
4. Worrying about judgment from others
5. Perfectionism holding you back

More importantly, I share actionable insights on how making decisions and taking steps can lead to clarity, personal growth, and fulfillment.

Ready to break free and move forward? Tune in and let’s uncover the strategies to overcome these barriers together!

Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator.

Additionally, we cover:

• My perspectives on performance anxiety and finding joy in music through mindfulness
• The pursuit of creativity and mastery in music
• Personal growth, trauma, empathy, and support
• And much more

Tune in now to gain inspiration from our conversation and explore your own path to mastery, mindfulness, creativity, and perhaps even entrepreneurship.

I'd love to hear your reflections on this milestone. Which episode has been your favorite, or which concept resonated with you the most? Feel free to reach out via direct message to share your thoughts!

Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

Conversation with Rob Knopper, percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and audition expert, creator of Audition Hacker.

You’ll hear about how he painstakingly developed his process (through trials and errors, and lots of reflection), his method to prepare for an audition, and the specifics of how to record yourself for maximum results.

Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT ROB KNOPPER

• Website: www.robknopper.com  
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@robknopperstudio  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robknopperpercussion/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robknopper/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-knopper-98998aa7/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ipoC3frMoO4AtG2KvP8Zv

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.