The Musician's Loupe

By Elaine Chao and Trist Curless

A discussion about music and musicianship by Trist Curless (jazz singer, educator, sound engineer, and recording engineer, formerly of m-pact and The Manhattan Transfer) and Elaine Chao, M.Ed (multi-i... more

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FAQs about The Musician's Loupe:

How many episodes does The Musician's Loupe have?

The podcast currently has 36 episodes available.

The Musician's Loupe episodes:

February 24, 2026New wave, gospel, and loud hotel gossip: Badman’s Song (Tears for Fears)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92FRHjqY-WI
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/10QGEFiAS7ANZ8jLqEkKOE?si=0de83e5028dd4698
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/bad-mans-song/1527555433
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B08FTDNVPY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_EkGTvVs5mPjm77WaMZQwNFsl6&trackAsin=B08FTDCT55

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss the unique stylistic departure of "Badman's Song" from Tears for Fears' typical new wave sound, highlighting its jazz, blues, and gospel influences, as well as its multi-movement structure reminiscent of classical music
Elaine and Trist analyze the song's lyrics, focusing on themes of sinfulness, redemption, and self-reflection, with references to church language and personal experiences, and the lyrics’ relationship to the gospel feel and Oleta Adams’ inclusion as a guest artist
Trist and Elaine dig into the topic live performance versus practicing alone, emphasizing the unique lessons learned on stage that cannot be replicated in a practice setting, while also acknowledging the importance of preparation and discipline during solo practice

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
31min
February 17, 2026The blues, collaborative duets, and a harmonica solo: Everyday (I Have the Blues) (Tony Bennett)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ethfkbryt0
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/0djVp1dfkHrq6dxnFkjgMi?si=ebab0df0719945fa
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/everyday-i-have-the-blues-with-stevie-wonder/572652905
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00A70V8TU?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_7ocbabTtLIkc6aWbBg6IMQ8WB&trackAsin=B00A70V9OO

Other links
Howard Levy on the harmonica - https://youtu.be/9gQgjHTNkmk
Interview with Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E88BMN96hJQ

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine highlight Stevie Wonder’s soaring harmonica solo in the song, emphasizing his effortless mastery of the instrument and the harmonica’s unique role in blues music
Elaine and Trist talk about Tony Bennett’s career, which spanned decades, and how duets and MTV Unplugged helped him expand his reach into broader audiences over the years
In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss how record stores serve as vital third spaces for fostering community and connecting music enthusiasts, despite the challenges posed by online marketplaces

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
30min
February 10, 2026Solo voice, multiple registers, and live performance: Blackbird (Bobby McFerrin)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v8uzMFb74M
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/5bNoizZe6YhwPXGt0mu7fX?si=22a02fc363a44d9e
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/nz/song/blackbird/41228105
Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B0011ZYCU2?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_5PzlbJJBi2oR2UNWbHSRu4VZo&trackAsin=B0011ZP7H4

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss Bobby McFerrin’s live solo vocal album through the lens of “Blackbird,” a Beatles cover. In the piece, McFerrin uses techniques like switching between vocal registers and singing while breathing in, which showcases his exceptional precision and intonation
Elaine and Trist also emphasize the magic of McFerrin's live performances, where his playful sounds, such as bird flapping noises and whistling, elicit delighted reactions from the audience
In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist talk about both classic and modern ways to get more exposure for a new act, including opening for similar bands, collaborating with local businesses, and networking at music workshops, camps, and conferences

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
29min
February 03, 2026Chord progressions, jazz rhythms, and a call for community: The Baker’s Daughter (Laila Biali)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yCOWHFugLhc
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6axEByVcWO1rGvJ8wbG2Fy?si=832914b3dd424062
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/au/song/the-bakers-daughter/1502087315
Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B085NW7BRC?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_EYeB2kM01aUtFssDMJz3YWKlw&trackAsin=B085NWGRXL

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss Laila Biali’s “The Baker’s Daughter,” which Biali had initially composed as an instrumental piece during her college years and later added lyrics
The podcast highlights the song's structure, rhythm, lyrics, mix, and the subtle use of brass and doubled vocals in creating the lush jazz sound
In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of consuming media and engaging in activities with intention rather than by default

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
32min
January 27, 2026Brass, dissonance, and pedal tones: Overture (Björk)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6w6apA_LbOE
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/1cgesvTA9wgm2x6a6AEjnn?si=03d52c468f934754
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/overture/313221988
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_JV1c672eQzcyAHeWfT24LjGtR&trackAsin=B0027OQ3AI

Other links
“New World” by Björk
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZt8eic_KNw
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6tgLIvZaal11lbuSXv48BD?si=3d0ba049609f4695
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/new-world/313222042
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_TH5hZ5UARlYNOpFbIQiGCRM3g&trackAsin=B0027OM5ZK
“The Carnival of Venice” with Wynton Marsalis - https://youtu.be/q0V4qPEK8jQ

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss “Overture,” a movie soundtrack composed by Björk, focusing on the arrangement and textural choices she made in this all-brass arrangement
This episode delves into how Björk’s "Overture" uses repeated themes, pedal tones, and layering to build and resolve tension, creating a captivating listening experience
In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the concept of setting a personal limit on recording takes, balancing perfectionism with practicality, and how technology has changed the approach to music production

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
32min
January 20, 2026South African harmonies, bilingual songwriting, and hailing a taxi: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes (Paul Simon)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXe2HzFOJYQ
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/71GvlH0VdeClloLIkHrAVu?si=86a85fa9cc56478c
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/diamonds-on-the-soles-of-her-shoes/529574619
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0085LMFAE?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_InQKPS94PVgshxXsoqYCrDrci&trackAsin=B0085LMI9W

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss “Diamonds in the Soles of Her Shoes” by Paul Simon in collaboration with the South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This song showcases the rich musical traditions of South Africa and addresses themes of class disparity and cultural integration during the apartheid era
The lyrics of the song incorporate South African cultural elements, such as the "sign of a teaspoon" and "sign of a wave," which reference specific taxi signals in South Africa, adding depth and context to the narrative
In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine explore the idea that musical ability is not solely dependent on innate talent but can be cultivated through dedication and practice, emphasizing that anyone can achieve a decent level of musical proficiency with effort

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
30min
January 13, 2026Simplicity, storytelling, and a breakup averted: Never on the Day You Leave (John Mayer)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1d5c1fVxSA
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/3TQbr3G3U5wlwEJejmqC1F
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/never-on-the-day-you-leave/1224353385
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B06Y3HV2N3?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_gArDR5BzTxFt1Suiqwo03YUHf&trackAsin=B06Y3R6LPH

Other links
“Further Notes on Scenius,” May 2017, Austin Kleon, quoting Brian Eno on the term “Scenius”

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss the storytelling and lyrical depth of John Mayer’s song “Never on the Day You Leave,” highlighting its emotional journey and impactful outro
The song's minimalistic instrumentation, including acoustic and clean electric elements, creates a sense of intimacy and supports the poignant lyrics, emphasizing the emotional weight of the narrative
In the mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist emphasize the critical role of local music venues and audiences in fostering emerging artists and creating a thriving music community

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
31min
January 06, 2026Hocket, pocket, and a surprise brass breakdown: Workin' Day and Night (Michael Jackson)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWnyCxva6bA
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6BdiFsPMPkSEEO4fFXFVWX
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/workin-day-and-night/186166410
Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138KJY0?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_n0DKAlMsv9XvZL5bSVgX5cY0z&trackAsin=B00137QO0O

Other links
Hocket in horns breakdown
Jackson family demo of Workin’ Day and Night
Horns in the NY subway station (Lucky Chops)

Key takeaways
In this episode, Trist and Elaine explore how Michael Jackson incorporates the ancient musical technique of hocket, originating from 13th-14th century choral music, into his song "Workin' Day and Night," creating a seamless melody from alternating instrumental parts
The discussion highlights the rich, human elements of the "Off the Wall" album, including live brass sections, hand drums, and vocal percussive sounds, contrasting it with later albums that relied more heavily on synthesizers and programmed sounds
Elaine and Trist discuss how musicians with corporate jobs can play a vital role in the music industry by using their income to fund projects, pay fellow musicians, and sustain their passion for music while maintaining financial stability

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
32min
December 30, 2025Vocal jazz, doo-wop, and a little melodica: In the Still of the Night (I’ll Remember) (Johnny Mathis)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://youtu.be/Hr1M6wWBei0?si=ygI48sWUK1WvFumB
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/20DUr5qMlguUSIeVsquajt?si=90324010b59a4cc7
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/in-the-still-of-the-night-ill-remember/270027184
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00138JBLM?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_nzxPmWqf3yYHOkPUPqfx65MuE&trackAsin=B001389W7A

Other links
Take 6
The Five Satins
The Bobs
The Persuasions
Vulfpeck

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss Johnny Mathis' rendition of "In the Still of the Night (I'll Remember)" with Take 6, highlighting the unique arrangement and the contrast between Mathis' wide vibrato and Take 6's tight, straight-toned jazz harmonies
The hosts analyze the distinct features of Take 6's arrangement, including close vocal harmonies, walking bass lines, syncopated backgrounds, subtle jazz chord tensions, and the use of vocal techniques to mimic instrumental sounds
In the mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss different approaches to merchandise, such as limited runs, and how these strategies can help artists create a sense of exclusiveness and urgency to purchase. They also touch on evaluating the return on investment of merchandise sales, especially for indie artists

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
32min
December 23, 2025Standards, phrasing, and the jazz ballad: Over the Rainbow (Lorez Alexandria)
Listen to the song
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07svdMmaQbM
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/4rnTlPjfyaDtKVhq9ZYryy?si=bcbff13656ac43f5
Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/over-the-rainbow/1444164049
Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B000W15BNS?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_1lz8YoMjapO1PSPL3SaW0Iyma&trackAsin=B000W190LM

Other links
Pete Kelly’s Blues (1955)
“Sing a Rainbow,” Peggy Lee

Key takeaways
Trist and Elaine discuss Lorez Alexandria’s take on the jazz classic “Over the Rainbow,” which introduces an intro from “Sing a Rainbow,” performed by Peggy Lee in “Pete Kelly’s Blues.” Topics include the relationship with theme and variation, back phrasing, and the push and pull with jazz instrumentalists
In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine reflect on the importance of creativity and expression in helping people connect, discover their true selves, and understand the human experience. They go on to discuss what type of activity to them brings meaning and connection in the context of an artist’s contribution to the world

About us
Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.
As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.
Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.
...more
32min

FAQs about The Musician's Loupe:

How many episodes does The Musician's Loupe have?

The podcast currently has 36 episodes available.