Petra Sittig

Petra Sittig

This channel is dedicated to raising awareness and showing support for the creative individuals and organizations who are shaping the future of arts and culture. I believe in giving artists a powerful platform to express themselves, share their stories, and showcase their unique perspectives. Through this project, I aim to amplify their voices and highlight the importance of the arts in our society. The arts have played a crucial role in the evolution of humanity, and it's essential to recognize both the artists who have paved the way and those who are creating today. I hope to inspire and educate younger generations about the significance of the arts, especially as they've been increasingly marginalized in our educational systems. Join me in celebrating all forms of art and fostering a deeper understanding of their value in our lives and communities. Let's ensure that arts and culture continue to thrive and remain relevant for future generations.

  1. 9h ago

    Connecting People Through Music: A Conversation with Sebastian Perłowski

    There is something deeply inspiring about speaking with artists who understand that music is about far more than notes on a page. In this conversation, I had the pleasure of talking with internationally acclaimed conductor and composer Sebastian Perłowski, whose philosophy is beautifully summed up in his words: "To connect people through music and music through people." A laureate of numerous prestigious international conducting competitions, Sebastian has built an impressive career working with leading orchestras across Europe and Asia. Renowned for his dynamic artistic vision and versatility across both the symphonic and operatic repertoire, he brings not only exceptional musical expertise to the podium but also a profound understanding of the human relationships that make great performances possible. Our conversation explores the unique chemistry between a conductor and an orchestra, a relationship founded on trust, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Sebastian explains that conducting is never about authority alone, but about creating an environment where musicians feel inspired to give their very best. It is this invisible connection that transforms individual performers into a unified artistic voice. We also discuss the conductor's role as a bridge between the orchestra and the audience. Through every gesture, expression, and movement, a conductor communicates the emotion, character, and story of the music, allowing listeners to experience a deeper connection with each performance. For Sebastian, conducting is a language without words, where every movement has meaning and every gesture serves the music. One of the most delightful moments in our conversation is when Sebastian reflects on his childhood dream of becoming a drummer. With his wonderful sense of humour, he jokes that he began his musical journey playing with two sticks, but eventually had to give one up in order to become a conductor. Behind the joke lies a lifelong passion for rhythm, musical expression, and an unwavering dedication to his craft. Sebastian also shares his deep admiration for the legendary conductors who came before him, acknowledging the influence they continue to have on his own artistic development. His respect for musical tradition is evident, while his own interpretations bring fresh energy and insight to every score he conducts. Adding another fascinating glimpse into his world is the remarkable collection of CD's and scores visible behind him throughout our interview. More than simply a backdrop, this extensive library reflects a lifetime of study, curiosity, and devotion to music, a testament to an artist who never stops learning and discovering. This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of leadership, collaboration, humility, and the extraordinary power of music to unite people across cultures and generations. Whether you are a musician, a lover of classical music, or simply curious about the artistry behind the podium, Sebastian offers a captivating perspective on what it truly means to bring music to life. Every artist has a story worth hearing. https://sebastianperlowski.framer.website The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Connecting People Through Music: A Conversation with Sebastian Perłowski
  2. 3d ago

    Ilya Portnov: The Sound, Soul, and Story of the Harmonica

    Some instruments seem to find the musician rather than the other way around. That was certainly the case for my guest, harmonica player, composer, and producer Ilya Portnov. Born in Moscow, Russia, Ilya began his musical journey as a pianist, but everything changed as a teenager when, after his family had moved, he unpacked a harmonica that had once belonged to his father. Inspired by friends who played the instrument and captivated by the sounds he heard on blues and jazz records, he taught himself by listening before eventually finding a teacher who helped shape his remarkable talent. That path would later take him to the New England Conservatory in Boston, where he earned a master's degree, and ultimately to Nashville, Tennessee, where he has become one of the most versatile and respected harmonica players working today. In our conversation, Ilya shares the story behind that unexpected beginning and explains how the harmonica became not just an instrument, but a lifelong passion. We explore the fascinating world of harmonicas—from diatonic and chromatic to bass harmonicas—and discover how each has its own unique voice and musical possibilities. It is a wonderful insight into an instrument that is often underestimated but capable of extraordinary expression. Today, Ilya's harmonica can be heard across an impressive range of musical styles, including country, bluegrass, blues, jazz, Brazilian music, film scores, and video games. Alongside his work as a highly sought-after session musician, he is also an accomplished composer and producer with three albums of original music to his name. One of the moments I particularly enjoyed was sharing with Ilya my own connection to the harmonica through South African Boeremusiek. It was delightful to see his genuine curiosity about a musical tradition that is unfamiliar to much of the world. Those are the moments I treasure most—when two people from different backgrounds discover unexpected connections through music. Watching Ilya perform, it is impossible not to notice how naturally the harmonica seems to become an extension of himself. There is an ease, warmth, and joy in his playing that reflects years of dedication, curiosity, and love for his craft. Beyond the extraordinary musician is a thoughtful and engaging artist whose passion for music shines through every note and every story he shares. I hope you enjoy getting to know not only the many voices of the harmonica, but also the remarkable artist behind the instrument. Every artist has a story worth hearing. https://ilyaportnov.com/bio Instagram: @ilyaharmonica Music Licence The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Ilya Portnov: The Sound, Soul, and Story of the Harmonica
  3. Jul 16

    On Stage with the London City Ballet | Maxime Quiroga

    Currently performing with the London City Ballet under the artistic direction of Christopher Marney, Maxime Quiroga offers a fascinating insight into what it is like to be part of the company's exciting new chapter. In our conversation, he shares his experience of working with a company that is bringing ballet to new audiences while honouring its rich artistic heritage. Maxime's journey has taken him through some of Europe's leading ballet companies. After training at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Paris and the John Cranko Akademie in Stuttgart, he went on to dance with the Stuttgart Ballet, the Royal Ballet of Flanders, the Wiener Staatsballett, the Ballet de l'Opéra de Nice and the Badisches Staatstheater Karlsruhe. He reflects on the different artistic cultures he has encountered and how each company has shaped him both as a dancer and as an artist. Beyond the stage, Maxime has developed a remarkable career as a filmmaker. Since 2021, his dance films have received around 40 official selections and awards at international film festivals. He explains how his ideas often emerge through the dancers themselves—their personalities, movement and emotions becoming the inspiration for each film. He also takes us behind the scenes of the filmmaking process, sharing how choreography, camera work, lighting, editing and music work together to create stories that reveal dance from an entirely different perspective than a live performance can offer. This conversation explores the many dimensions of an artist whose creativity extends far beyond the stage, revealing a passion for movement, storytelling and the ever-evolving possibilities of dance. https://londoncityballet.com https://maximemathieuquiroga.wixsite.com/home The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    On Stage with the London City Ballet | Maxime Quiroga
  4. Jul 13

    From Numbers to Notes: Richard Case's Journey to the Pedal Steel Guitar

    Richard Case's path into music is anything but conventional. Growing up in South Africa, he pursued a degree in Mathematics at the University of Cape Town rather than formal musical training. It wasn't until he moved to Hamburg that he encountered an instrument that would change the course of his life: the pedal steel guitar. Entirely self-taught, Richard shares the remarkable story of how curiosity, persistence, and countless hours of practice led him to master one of the world's most expressive—and technically demanding—instruments. During our conversation, he not only explains his learning process but also offers fascinating insight into the mechanics and unique character of the pedal steel guitar. One of the highlights of the interview is hearing Richard demonstrate its rich, singing tones as he explains how the pedals and levers create the instrument's unmistakable sound. Richard's journey beautifully illustrates that creativity and analytical thinking are not opposites but powerful partners. Mathematics develops logic, pattern recognition, problem-solving, and disciplined thinking, while music nurtures creativity, emotional expression, listening, adaptability, and imagination. Learning an instrument also strengthens concentration, memory, coordination, perseverance, and the ability to think both critically and creatively. His story is a reminder that the arts are not separate from subjects such as mathematics and science—they complement and enrich them. When schools value music alongside STEM subjects, students develop a broader range of cognitive, emotional, and social skills that prepare them not only for careers but for life. Innovation often happens where analytical thinking meets creativity, and Richard's journey is a wonderful example of how these worlds can come together. I hope you enjoy this inspiring conversation with Richard Case, whose passion for learning proves that it's never too late to discover a new instrument, embrace a new challenge, and find your own musical voice. The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    From Numbers to Notes: Richard Case's Journey to the Pedal Steel Guitar
  5. Jul 9

    Tobias Hoffmann: Composition, Jazz & Mentorship

    Tobias Hoffmann is a multi-award-winning German saxophonist, composer, and arranger whose music bridges the worlds of contemporary big band, European jazz, and the freedom of improvisation. As the leader of his Jazz Orchestra and Nonet, he creates richly textured musical landscapes filled with dramatic storytelling, intricate harmonies, and emotional depth. In this conversation, Tobias reflects on the beginning of his musical journey and the moment the saxophone became part of his life. He speaks warmly about the teachers and mentors who recognised his potential, encouraged his curiosity, and helped shape him into the artist he is today. Their guidance has left a lasting impression and continues to influence how he approaches both music and life. We explore his deep love for jazz and big band music, and what inspires him to compose. Tobias describes composition as a way of creating musical narratives—bringing together structure, imagination, and spontaneity to build works that invite both musicians and audiences on a shared journey. His music blends tradition with innovation, creating a distinctive sound that is both intellectually engaging and deeply expressive. For Tobias, music is fundamentally a social art form. It is about people coming together, listening to one another, responding in the moment, and creating something that can never be fully planned or controlled. It is within this collaboration and openness that some of the most meaningful musical moments emerge. He also speaks with refreshing humility about his own journey as a saxophonist. While acknowledging his strengths, he openly admires fellow musicians whose artistry continues to inspire him. Rather than striving for comparison, he has discovered that his true passion lies in composing—creating music that allows others to express themselves and contribute their own voices to the performance. Looking ahead, Tobias hopes to become the kind of mentor who once guided him. Having experienced the profound influence that dedicated teachers can have on a young musician's life, he is passionate about supporting the next generation of artists. He believes mentorship is about more than developing technical ability; it is about nurturing curiosity, encouraging individuality, building confidence, and helping young musicians discover their own authentic artistic voice. This is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, collaboration, humility, and the lifelong journey of making music that connects people. https://www.tobiashoffmannmusic.com The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Tobias Hoffmann: Composition, Jazz & Mentorship
  6. Jul 6

    Alon Sariel Interview | The Mandolin, Bach and Musical Expression

    When I first heard a recording of composer Nimrod Borenstein's Mandolin Concerto, I was captivated by the sound of an instrument I had always associated with fairytales and enchanting landscapes. Curious to discover the true voice of the mandolin, I invited Israeli-born, Vienna-based mandolinist, lutenist and conductor Alon Sariel to join me for a conversation about his remarkable musical journey. Widely regarded as one of today's most versatile plucked-string performers, Alon Sariel has earned international acclaim through his contagious musicianship, flawless technique and exceptional artistry. As a multi-instrumentalist and celebrated interpreter of Johann Sebastian Bach, he continues to inspire audiences while exploring a repertoire that stretches from early music to contemporary works, often shining a light on lesser-known composers alongside musical giants such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In this interview, Alon shares how he first discovered the mandolin as a young boy and why the instrument became his lifelong passion. He also reflects on an unusual aspect of his musical education: although he studied the mandolin, his professor was actually a violinist. Rather than focusing solely on technical perfection, this experience taught him one of the most valuable lessons of his career—that music is never simply about playing the right notes, but about interpretation, expression and communicating emotion. We also explore the unique character of the mandolin, its rich history and remarkable versatility, revealing an instrument that extends far beyond its romantic stereotypes. His recently published final instalment of the acclaimed Plucked Bach trilogy was selected as an Editor's Choice by Gramophone and has received numerous international distinctions, further establishing him as one of the leading voices for plucked-string instruments today. Join us for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, musical storytelling and the expressive power of the mandolin—a fascinating journey with one of the most innovative musicians of his generation. https://www.alon-sariel.com The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Alon Sariel Interview | The Mandolin, Bach and Musical Expression
  7. Jul 2

    Teodor Doré: Composing, Culture, and Renaissance-21

    I recently had the pleasure of doing an interview with pianist, composer, and cultural visionary Teodor Doré for what became a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation. Teodor Doré is an internationally acclaimed pianist and composer, as well as the founder of the cultural movement Renaissance-21. His remarkable career has taken him to audiences across six continents, with performances at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House, and the Musikverein in Vienna. He has released multiple albums that reflect both his technical brilliance and his unique artistic vision. One of the most extraordinary milestones in his career is becoming the first musician in the world to orchestrate Sergei Rachmaninoff's previously lost suite, having received the official approval of the composer's family. The long-awaited world premiere of this historic work is scheduled for November 2026 at Carnegie Hall, marking a significant moment in classical music history. His latest album, Portraits of Cities, takes listeners on a musical journey across cultures and continents, painting vivid sonic landscapes inspired by cities such as Istanbul, Bombay, and Manhattan. As a composer, Teodor has written more than a dozen orchestral works, including the acclaimed orchestral suite La Suite Romana, which has been performed by La Toscanini Orchestra at the Lerici Festival in Italy, the Albanian National Radio Symphony Orchestra in Tirana, and the London City Philharmonic Orchestra. Always pushing artistic boundaries, Teodor also composed what is considered the world's first immersive-format classical opera, created in collaboration with invited soloists from the Bolshoi Theatre and the Moscow Opera House. In 2023, audiences experienced two major theatrical productions featuring his music: Theatre of Gulags in London and Say That You Love Me in Madrid. Our conversation extended beyond music into philosophy, culture, and the role of artists in shaping society. Teodor spoke passionately about Renaissance-21, the cultural movement he founded in response to what he sees as the exhaustion of postmodern irony and the fragmentation of meaning in contemporary life. Renaissance-21 advocates for a renewed commitment to seriousness, beauty, excellence, authentic authorship, and intellectual depth. It seeks to restore coherence in a world increasingly characterised by cultural acceleration, declining educational standards, and the loss of shared values, encouraging artists and thinkers to create work that resonates with lasting significance. This was a truly fascinating and deeply inspiring interview. Rather than focusing solely on achievements, our discussion explored the purpose of art, the responsibilities of the artist, the future of classical music, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing innovation. Teodor's thoughtful insights, unwavering passion, and visionary outlook made this conversation one that will stay with me for a long time. If you love classical music, culture, philosophy, or simply enjoy hearing from artists who challenge conventional thinking, this is an interview you won't want to miss. https://teodordore.com/#rec667946890 https://renaissance21.world #composer #artistinterview #musicianinterview #petrasittigtheartistsvoice The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Teodor Doré: Composing, Culture, and Renaissance-21
  8. Jun 29

    Corinna Rogers: Bringing the Hammered Dulcimer to Nashville's Bluegrass Scene

    In this episode of The Artist's Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with hammered dulcimer player Corinna Rogers, an accomplished musician currently based in Nashville, Tennessee, who originally comes from Upper Austria. Corinna shares her fascinating musical journey, which began in Austria where she was first introduced to the hammered dulcimer. She reflects on her early music education and explains the rich history of the instrument in Austrian folk traditions. The hammered dulcimer has long been an important part of the folk music heritage of the Alpine regions, where its bright, resonant sound accompanied traditional dances, village celebrations, and cultural gatherings. Passed down through generations, the instrument remains a beautiful link between history and contemporary folk music. During our conversation, Corinna talks about what inspired her to leave Austria and pursue a musical career in Nashville, one of the world's most influential music cities. She discusses how warmly the hammered dulcimer has been embraced by fellow musicians, despite being a relatively uncommon instrument in many contemporary settings. Its distinctive tone adds a fresh and captivating dimension to performances, making it an exciting instrument for collaboration. One of Corinna's greatest passions is working with artists from diverse musical backgrounds. She enjoys exploring unexpected musical combinations and creating new sounds that emerge when different genres and traditions meet. These creative collaborations continue to inspire her and allow the hammered dulcimer to reach audiences in fresh and innovative ways. Since settling in Nashville, Corinna has found a welcoming musical community and discovered a deep appreciation for bluegrass music. While the hammered dulcimer is not traditionally associated with bluegrass in the same way as the banjo, fiddle, or mandolin, Corinna demonstrates how beautifully the instrument can complement the genre. Its shimmering melodies and rhythmic versatility bring a unique voice to bluegrass, enriching both traditional and contemporary performances. The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

    Corinna Rogers: Bringing the Hammered Dulcimer to Nashville's Bluegrass Scene

Ratings & Reviews

About

This channel is dedicated to raising awareness and showing support for the creative individuals and organizations who are shaping the future of arts and culture. I believe in giving artists a powerful platform to express themselves, share their stories, and showcase their unique perspectives. Through this project, I aim to amplify their voices and highlight the importance of the arts in our society. The arts have played a crucial role in the evolution of humanity, and it's essential to recognize both the artists who have paved the way and those who are creating today. I hope to inspire and educate younger generations about the significance of the arts, especially as they've been increasingly marginalized in our educational systems. Join me in celebrating all forms of art and fostering a deeper understanding of their value in our lives and communities. Let's ensure that arts and culture continue to thrive and remain relevant for future generations.