As an inaugural episode of the new year, we had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Michael Coonrod, a distinguished Classical Pianist, Recording Artist, Educator, and Arranger specializing in music for the Left Hand Alone 🎶

Recently retired from his illustrious 46-year tenure as a piano faculty member at the renowned Interlochen Center for the Arts, Dr. Coonrod boasts an impressive teaching career spanning over 50 years and a performing career exceeding 65 years!

Our conversation covered from practical tips on nurturing technical excellence and overcoming performance anxiety to philosophical discussions on teaching and music making:

• ✨ Dr. Coonrod’s reflections on his 46 years of teaching at the Interlochen Arts Academy: his favorite moments and teaching philosophy
• ✨ Unveiling the nuances of teaching piano technique: specific methods employed with his students
• ✨ Insights into his captivating concert and recording career
• ✨ Overcoming life’s hurdles: the challenges and silver lining moments following the loss of his right ring finger 9 years ago.
• 🌟 The evolution of music education throughout Dr. Coonrod’s teaching career and the most significant changes observed
• 🌟 His thoughts on the duty or gift of classical musicians to society at large

and more!

🍿Join the premiere of this fantastic episode on our YouTube channel on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 8:00pm ET

🎧 This episode's audio will be split into two parts. Part 1 will be released on your favorite podcasting platform simultaneously with the YouTube premiere

🎼 Meet Dr. Coonrod: a distinguished pianist, recording artist, and a former piano faculty member at Interlochen Arts Academy for 46 years, has shaped countless students and presented diverse piano recitals worldwide. As a soloist, he performed with orchestras, and his repertoire spans Beethoven, Mozart, Gershwin, and contemporary American composers. Coonrod, mentored by Lucien Hut and Konrad Wolff, holds degrees from the University of Montana and The Peabody Conservatory of Music. His dedication earned him recognition as a "Kentucky Colonel" in 1996. Coonrod's discography includes an album promoting scholarships for composition students and a two-CD set featuring Franz Schubert's solo piano music. Beyond music, Coonrod indulges in model railroads, chamber music, and accompanying church choirs, crafting a symphony of diverse interests.

🎹 About The Piano Pod

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• 🎁 Episode Contributor: Pokie Huang

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