Phenotypic Recordings Podcast

Phenotypic Recordings

Hosted by renowned pianist and broadcaster Sarah Cahill, The Phenotypic Recordings Podcast brings you into the world of Phenotypic Recordings: Music with a Mission. Each episode introduces the artists and composers behind the label, sharing the stories, inspirations, and cultural impact of their work. Phenotypic Recordings is dedicated to championing new compositions by world-class musicians, uncovering unpublished works from groundbreaking yet overlooked composers, and promoting music that speaks to the most pressing issues of our time.

Episodes

  1. Melanie Ambler: Bridging Music and Medicine

    16/09/2025

    Melanie Ambler: Bridging Music and Medicine

    In this episode of the Phenotypic Podcast, host Sarah Cahill welcomes Melanie Ambler to share her unique journey at the intersection of music and medicine. As a Stanford medical student, Melanie created Musical Rounds, a project that brings personalized musical experiences to terminally ill patients. She discusses the emotional impact of music on patients and their families, the healing power of sound, and the vital role of listening in healthcare. Melanie also outlines her vision for training other musicians to join this work and shares her aspirations for the future of music in medicine.

    56 min
  2. Witness: A Conversation with Mary Kouyoumdjian and David Harrington

    18/04/2025

    Witness: A Conversation with Mary Kouyoumdjian and David Harrington

    In this episode, host Sarah Cahill, composer Mary Kouyoumdjian and violinist David Harrington discuss Mary's first solo portrait album titled 'Witness,' featuring performances by the Kronos Quartet. Mary reflects on her long-standing collaboration with the Quartet, starting from her selection for their Under 30 project. They delve into the personal and cultural significance behind the album's tracks, particularly focusing on the Armenian folk song 'Groung' and the piece 'Bombs of Beirut,' which integrates family stories and field recordings of bombings from the Lebanese Civil War. Mary and David also explore the emotional and technical challenges of composing and performing pieces that deal with themes of cultural erasure and conflict. The episode captures their shared philosophy of using music to reflect on and process difficult historical and contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the responsibility of artists to address societal challenges.

    53 min
  3. Exploring Boundaries: W4RP Trio and LiKWUiD Discuss 'Sermon of the Matriark'

    06/03/2025

    Exploring Boundaries: W4RP Trio and LiKWUiD Discuss 'Sermon of the Matriark'

    In this episode of the Phenotypic Recordings Podcast, Sarah Cahill converses with W4RP Trio- Josh Henderson, Mikhael Darmanie, J.Y. Lee, Rick Martinez - and rapper LiKWiD about their newly released album 'Sermon of the Matriark.' The group delves into the integration of classical training with diverse musical styles, thematic inspirations behind the album, and the details of their creative process. The album draws from historical references and contemporary social issues, showcasing a mix of classical, hip hop, and acoustic genres. Key tracks discussed include 'Up' and 'Gimme Dat,' highlighting their ability to narrate powerful stories through experimental and collaborative music-making.

    43 min
  4. Prayer for Ukraine: Preserving Culture Through Music with the Vivere String Quartet

    04/03/2025

    Prayer for Ukraine: Preserving Culture Through Music with the Vivere String Quartet

    In this episode of the Phenotypic Recordings podcast, 'Music with a Mission,' host Sarah Cahill speaks with members of the Vivere String Quartet, Ana Bura and Dmytro Lysko, along with Phenotypic Recordings' Artistic Director and Pianist, Stephen Prutsman. They discuss the origins and development of the quartet's album 'Prayer for Ukraine,' the challenges of recording during the ongoing conflict, and the significance of preserving Ukrainian culture through music. The conversation covers the work of three Ukrainian composers featured on the album, the recording process at Skywalker Sound with engineer Leslie Anne Jones, and the emotional and logistical challenges faced by the quartet. The album's proceeds are donated to support Ukrainian soldiers, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of this musical project.

    41 min
  5. The Enduring Sounds of the St. Lawrence String Quartet

    03/03/2025

    The Enduring Sounds of the St. Lawrence String Quartet

    In this episode of the Phenotypic Recordings Podcast, host Sarah Cahill talks to members of the St. Lawrence String Quartet—violinist Owen Dalby, violist Leslie Robertson, and cellist Christopher Costanza along with pianist and collaborator pianist Stephen Prutsman, —about their experiences recording the Korngold Piano Quintet and two Haydn quartets. They reflect on their late colleague, violinist Jeff Nuttall, who passed away in 2022, and his profound influence on the group. Leslie and Chris share stories from their long history with Jeff, while Owen and Stephen discuss the ensemble's dedication to extracting new musical truths from their repertoire. The episode highlights the exceptional work ethic and passion that Jeff brought to the group, even during his illness, and why the quartet ultimately decided to disband after his death.

    40 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

Hosted by renowned pianist and broadcaster Sarah Cahill, The Phenotypic Recordings Podcast brings you into the world of Phenotypic Recordings: Music with a Mission. Each episode introduces the artists and composers behind the label, sharing the stories, inspirations, and cultural impact of their work. Phenotypic Recordings is dedicated to championing new compositions by world-class musicians, uncovering unpublished works from groundbreaking yet overlooked composers, and promoting music that speaks to the most pressing issues of our time.

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