The Pluck

Jonathan Smith
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  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS

The Pluck is the place for all things plucked strings. We explore how working pros write, record, and play music for plucked‑string instruments—guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, harp, and more—through in‑depth conversations and real‑world examples of their craft.

Episodes

  1. Jason Vieaux

    5H AGO

    Jason Vieaux

    In this inaugural episode, Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux shares how he manages a demanding career: mastering rapid repertoire shifts, collaborating with top composers, and balancing performance with innovative recording projects. You'll discover his approach to intentional practice, working with composers on challenging pieces, and the often-overlooked skill of sight-reading that accelerates learning. Perfect for classical guitarists, composers, educators, and students—this conversation offers clear, actionable insights to elevate your craft and your career. Chapters00:00:06 Opening — The Philosophy of The Pluck 00:01:50 Touring Life & Maintaining Major Series 00:02:42 Calendar Discipline & Practicing Early 00:04:34 Preparing for First Rehearsals 00:08:40 Recording vs. Performing 00:19:50 Working with Non-Guitarist Composers (Leshnoff) 00:38:12 Early Training & Chamber Music Foundations 00:46:05 “Your Technique Sucks” — Mechanics vs. Facility 00:58:46 Sight Reading as a Career Multiplier 01:13:21 The Pat Metheny Record & Arranging by Ear 01:30:53 Pandemic, Family, & Career Shock 01:44:32 Structure, Curiosity & Final Advice Learn More Explore more about The Pluck and Jason Vieaux: The Pluck – thepluck.studioJason Vieaux – jasonvieaux.comSubscribe to stay updated on new episodes and exclusive pluck content. Credits This podcast contains an excerpt of ‘Letter from Home,’ composed by Pat Metheny and performed by Jason Vieaux, used with written permission from Azica Records.

    1h 48m

  2. 6D AGO

    Welcome to The Pluck

    The Pluck is the place for all things plucked strings. In this short intro, I share what the show is about, who it’s for, and why we’re digging into how the pros write, record, and play music for plucked‑string instruments—guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, harp, and more. If you work with plucked strings and want clearer, more idiomatic parts that feel good under the hands and hold up on stage and in the studio, you’re in the right place.

    1 min

Trailer

About

The Pluck is the place for all things plucked strings. We explore how working pros write, record, and play music for plucked‑string instruments—guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, harp, and more—through in‑depth conversations and real‑world examples of their craft.

Information

  • Creator
    Jonathan Smith
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Pluck
  • Show Website
    The Pluck