The Muse in Music

Daniel Perttu
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Arts
  • Updated Monthly

Composer Daniel Perttu talks with orchestra conductors, administrators, and other musicians about what inspires them in their work, particularly as it pertains to the programming of contemporary orchestral music.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 44: Aram Demirjian on New Music, Discovery, and Community

    In this episode of The Muse in Music, I talk with Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Music Director Aram Demirjian about the music and people who inspire his work. We discuss bringing orchestral music into the community, building trust with audiences, and making new music an exciting act of discovery. Aram also shares his passion for American music and his thoughts on the evolving partnership between conductors and composers. www.danielperttu.com www.aramdemirjian.com

  2. Sep 16

    Episode 43: Brian Dollinger on Storytelling, Collaboration, and New Music

    In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with conductor Brian Dollinger about the joy of helping musicians perform beyond what they thought possible. He discusses his love of musical storytelling, his preference for accessible contemporary music, and the ways conductors can prepare audiences to embrace unfamiliar works. We also explore the practical considerations that help new orchestral music receive more performances, from manageable instrumentation to clear notation. Finally, Brian emphasizes the importance of genuine collaboration between conductors and living composers in bringing a composer’s vision fully to life. www.danielperttu.com www.briandollinger.com

  3. Aug 24

    Episode 42: Anthony LaGruth on Bringing the Promise of the Musical Score to Life

    In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with conductor Anthony LaGruth. He reflects on how his early life as a trumpeter and aspiring composer led him toward conducting and toward the collaborative act of turning notation into living music. He discusses enduring inspiration from composers such as Mahler, Shostakovich, and Tchaikovsky, while making a strong case for conductors’ close, practical collaboration with living composers. LaGruth also considers how programming, accessible audience communication, and emotionally communicative new music can invite listeners more deeply into orchestral life. Ultimately, he argues for the irreplaceable power of live performance as a shared communal experience. www.danielperttu.com anthonylagruth.com

  4. Aug 4

    Episode 41: James Blachly on Conducting, Community, and the Power of Musical Experience

    In this episode of The Muse in Music, I speak with Grammy-winning conductor James Blachly, Music Director of the Johnstown Symphony and Artistic Director of New York City's Experiential Orchestra, about the profound experiences that inspire his work. James shares his philosophy of conducting as an act of service, explores how orchestras can build meaningful relationships with audiences through innovative programming, and discusses his passion for championing living composers. We also delve into the mission of the Experiential Orchestra, whose immersive performances challenge traditional concert conventions and invite audiences into the very heart of the music-making process. Along the way, James offers thoughtful perspectives on collaborations between conductors and composers, cultivating trust with audiences, and creating concert experiences that are welcoming, transformative, and unforgettable. www.danielperttu.com www.jamesblachly.com

  5. Jul 5

    Episode 40: Charles Latshaw on Emotional Courage in New Music

    Please join me as I talk with Charles Latshaw, Music Director of the Grand Junction Symphony and Flagstaff Symphony, about what inspires him as a musician and his approach to conducting. We discuss the challenges of conducting, his continuous learning, and the importance of score study. Charles highlights some of his favorite composers, Brahms and Ravel, and their contrasting styles. He also emphasizes the need for contemporary composers to show emotional courage and make clear statements in their music. We also discuss the challenges of programming, balancing old and new music, and the importance of making new music accessible and appealing to audiences.  www.danielperttu.com www.charleslatshaw.com

  6. Jun 17

    Episode 39: Nick Palmer on Conducting, Creativity, and Bringing New Music to Life

    In this episode, I talk with Nick Palmer, Music Director of the Altoona Symphony and North Charleston POPS!, and conductor of the Evenings Under the Stars Music Festival, about the passion that drives his work as a conductor. We discuss the unique excitement of live performance, the importance of connecting with audiences, and his perspective on building relationships between composers, performers, and listeners.  Nick also shares insights from his background as a composition major, reflects on collaborations with composers, and discusses how organizations can champion new music through initiatives such as composer-in-residence programs and social media outreach. Please join us! www.danielperttu.com www.nicholaspalmer.net

  7. Apr 16

    Episode 38: Tito Muñoz on What Compels a Conductor to Believe in a Composition

    Please join me as I talk with Tito Muñoz, former music director of the Phoenix Symphony and interim principal conductor of the Cleveland Institute of Music orchestra, as he discusses his journey from violinist to conductor, driven by his interest in leadership and fascination with the conductor's role. He emphasizes the importance of genuine, authentic expression in compositions, whether historical or contemporary.   He also highlights the significance of personal relationships and recommendations in programming living composers.  www.danielperttu.com titomunoz.com

  8. Mar 5

    Episode 37: Dirk Meyer on How Conductors balance Risk and Responsibility

    Please join me as I talk with Dirk Meyer, Music Director of the Augusta Symphony, Duluth Superior Symphony, and Lyric Opera of the North, as he discusses his passion for conducting, emphasizing the continuous learning and the unique connection with musicians and audiences. He particularly admires late Romantic and Early Modern music, citing composers like Mahler and Strauss. Dirk also appreciates contemporary composers Thomas Adès and Arvo Pärt. He highlights the importance of tailoring programming to different audiences, balancing new music with audience preferences, and building trust through effective communication and preparation. He stresses the need for conductors to be knowledgeable and adaptable to diverse community tastes. www.dirkmeyer.com www.danielperttu.com

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About

Composer Daniel Perttu talks with orchestra conductors, administrators, and other musicians about what inspires them in their work, particularly as it pertains to the programming of contemporary orchestral music.

Information

  • Creator
    Daniel Perttu
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Daniel Perttu
  • Show Website
    The Muse in Music