Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Mada & Hugh

In this episode of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, we dive deep into the world of performance anxiety with Dr. Robert Hall, a renowned psychiatrist and former professional trombonist. Learn how to manage and deal with stage fright with practical tips, personal stories, and expert advice. 🎹 Topics Covered: Understanding the biology behind performance anxiety Psychological and social factors affecting musicians Practical tips for managing anxiety, including preparation, beta blockers, and CBT The importance of a balanced lifestyle for mental health Personal insights and experiences from Dr. Hall’s career 🎹 Topics Covered: 0:00 - Introduction by Hugh and Mada 0:34 - Hugh and Mada discuss their personal experiences with performance anxiety 4:10 - Mada’s story of a memorable performance anxiety incident 8:10 - Introducing Dr. Robert Hall 8:39 - Dr. Hall shares his background as a musician and psychiatrist 12:30 - Understanding the universality of performance anxiety 14:43 - The biological basis of performance anxiety 17:18 - The importance of preparation and performance experience 20:54 - Dr. Hall’s personal performance experience with adrenaline management 24:40 - Practical tips for managing performance anxiety in the moment 29:05 - The role of beta blockers in managing performance anxiety 35:30 - Exploring cognitive behavioral therapy for performance anxiety 39:15 - Importance of positive reinforcement and supportive mentors 43:45 - The concept of “permission to fail” and personal anecdotes 50:00 - Lifestyle factors and their impact on performance anxiety 55:47 - Mada’s experience with receiving harsh criticism and using it as motivation 58:15 - Dr. Hall’s journey from music to medicine and his personal challenges 1:00:15 - Closing remarks and future episode tease 🎶 Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable strategies to help you perform at your best. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on music and mental health! #PerformanceAnxiety #MusicianTips #MentalHealth #MadaAndHugh #DrRobertHall #ClassicalMusic #StageFright #MusicPodcast

Welcome to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast, where we dive into the beautiful fusion of Romanian and Korean cultures through music, life, and love. Today, we’re exploring an unusual yet exciting topic: dating tips for Romanians and Koreans. Whether you’re currently dating or married, these tips can help enhance your relationship, drawing from our personal experiences.
Understanding Cultural Dynamics Expressiveness and Communication One of the first things Hugh noticed about Romanian women is their expressiveness and straightforward communication. Romanian culture encourages openness, making it clear what they feel and think. This can be refreshing and, at times, intense, but it's essential for fostering genuine connections. For Hugh, learning to appreciate and reciprocate this directness was key in building a strong relationship with Mada.
Assertiveness and Politeness Madalina shared that while initial politeness and gentlemanly behavior are appreciated, Romanian women also value assertiveness. Being clear about your preferences and opinions shows confidence and respect, essential traits in Romanian culture. This balance between gentility and assertiveness helps in creating a dynamic and respectful relationship.
Embracing Each Other’s Culture Falling in Love with the Culture One of the significant aspects of dating someone from a different culture is taking an interest in their heritage. Hugh emphasized the importance of immersing oneself in the Romanian culture, whether it's learning the language, appreciating traditional music, or savoring the cuisine. This not only shows respect but also deepens the bond between partners.
The Role of Food Food plays a vital role in cultural expression. For Mada and Hugh, exploring each other’s culinary traditions has been a delightful journey. Hugh's efforts in cooking Korean dishes and introducing Mada to Korean cuisine helped her appreciate his background. Similarly, Hugh’s love for Romanian food strengthened their connection. Sharing meals and culinary experiences can be a wonderful way to bridge cultural gaps and create lasting memories.
Communication Styles: Actions vs. Words Words of Affection vs. Acts of Service In Korean culture, actions often speak louder than words. Acts of service, like cooking, cleaning, and other gestures, are common ways to show love and care. Mada highlighted the importance of balancing this with verbal expressions of affection. While actions are crucial, expressing feelings through words can enhance understanding and emotional connection.
Patience and Effort Patience Both Mada and Hugh agree that patience is crucial in any relationship, especially in cross-cultural ones. Understanding and appreciating each other’s backgrounds, habits, and quirks takes time. Patience allows for growth, learning, and mutual respect, paving the way for a harmonious relationship.
Making an Effort Making an effort to understand and integrate into each other’s cultural backgrounds is essential. This goes beyond general cultural knowledge to understanding the person as an individual. Every person relates differently to their culture, and recognizing this individuality helps in creating a deeper connection.
Bonus Tip: Humor Humor is a universal language that can bridge many gaps. For Mada and Hugh, humor has played a significant role in their relationship. Whether it's making funny voices, sharing a love for cartoons like Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes, or simply finding joy in everyday moments, humor helps in keeping the relationship light-hearted and joyful.
Conclusion Dating someone from a different culture can be an enriching and rewarding experience. For those involved in Romanian-Korean relationships, these tips from Mada and Hugh can help in navigating the beautiful complexities of cross-cultural dating. Embrace the differences, appreciate the similarities, and always keep communication, patience, and effort at the forefront. And remember, a shared s

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we conclude our in-depth interview series with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. In this final part, we delve into Lambert’s transition from a solo career to collaborative piano, his long-standing partnership with violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, and his insights on the evolving landscape of classical music.
Transition to Collaborative Piano Lambert Orkis began his musical journey as a solo pianist, but he quickly found his true calling in collaborative piano. In his words, this path suited him better and allowed him to thrive. He shared that while a solo career requires mastering many different aspects beyond just playing well, his strengths lay in working with ensembles and other musicians. This realization led him to a rich and fulfilling career in collaborative music, where he could leverage his unique talents and enjoy the camaraderie of playing with others.
The Musical Marriage with Anne-Sophie Mutter One of the most significant collaborations in Lambert’s career has been with the renowned violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. Their partnership spans nearly four decades, and Lambert describes their connection as a “musical marriage.” This deep, long-term collaboration is a testament to their mutual respect, understanding, and shared artistic vision. Their performances have captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the profound synergy that can be achieved through dedicated collaboration.
Staying Young at Heart Hugh expressed his admiration for Lambert’s youthful spirit and his passion for technology. Lambert’s enthusiasm for photography and the latest tech gadgets, like his new Mac Studio computer, highlights his forward-thinking mindset. He recognizes the importance of staying current with technological advancements and their role in the modern world of classical music. Lambert’s ability to blend traditional musical excellence with contemporary tools is a valuable lesson for young musicians navigating today’s complex landscape.
Navigating the 21st Century Classical Music Scene During the interview, Lambert offered invaluable advice for young pianists and musicians. He emphasized the need for entrepreneurial skills, technological proficiency, and a flexible mindset. According to Lambert, while there isn’t a fixed formula for success, being prepared, adaptable, and open to new opportunities can make a significant difference. He encouraged young musicians to build a diverse repertoire, engage with audiences, and continuously strive for excellence.
Overcoming Challenges Lambert candidly shared some of the challenges he faced in his career. Despite premiering major piano concertos and performing in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, he encountered personal and professional hurdles. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Lambert’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most successful musicians must navigate difficulties and setbacks on their path to greatness.
Embracing Technology Lambert’s passion for technology extends beyond music. He is an avid photographer, capturing stunning images of birds with his Nikon camera. His love for Star Trek and its portrayal of endless possibilities further reflects his open-mindedness and curiosity. Lambert’s embrace of technology and new ideas is an inspiration for musicians to explore and integrate modern tools into their artistic practices.
Final Thoughts As we conclude this interview series, we are deeply grateful to Lambert Orkis for sharing his incredible journey, wisdom, and insights. His career exemplifies the richness of collaborative music and the importance of staying adaptable and open to new experiences. Lambert’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a testament to the enduring power of music to connect and uplift.
Conclusion Thank you for jo

Welcome back to the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. In this episode, we continue our engaging interview with the illustrious collaborative pianist and professor Lambert Orkis from Temple University. This is the second part of a three-part series where we delve into Professor Orkis's experiences post-graduation from the Curtis Institute of Music, his collaboration with the legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, and his relentless pursuit of musical excellence.
The Path After Curtis Upon graduating from the Curtis Institute of Music, Lambert Orkis faced an existential crisis. Like many young musicians, he wondered what the future held. He shared how his family, not worldly wise about musical careers, couldn't provide much guidance. However, an enlightening experience at Curtis directed his path. A counterpoint and theory teacher, Matthew Colucci, introduced him to the exquisite playing of Marion Filar, a pianist known for his Chopin interpretations. This revelation led Lambert to pursue further studies at Temple University, where he eventually became a significant part of the institution.
Temple University and Early Professional Experiences Lambert Orkis’s initial foray into professional music came when Dr. David Stone, the founder of the College of Music at Temple, offered him an assistantship to play for recitals. This role was both challenging and rewarding, as he had to perform for 47 people in his first year. Through this experience, Lambert honed his ensemble skills, working with various musicians and learning diverse repertoires, from brass and tuba pieces to contemporary music.
One memorable ensemble experience was with Marian Van Erck’s Franklin Concerts, which provided young musicians opportunities to perform throughout Pennsylvania. These performances were pivotal in building Lambert’s confidence and repertoire. His dedication and excellence in these performances did not go unnoticed, eventually attracting the attention of renowned musicians and organizations.
Meeting Mstislav Rostropovich A significant turning point in Lambert’s career was his introduction to Mstislav Rostropovich, a legendary cellist and conductor. Lambert’s first encounter with Rostropovich happened during a masterclass at the Kennedy Center. Despite the intimidating environment, Lambert’s passion and preparedness impressed Rostropovich, leading to an immediate bond between the two.
Rostropovich’s influence on Lambert’s career was profound. He invited Lambert to join the National Symphony Orchestra on a tour in Asia, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration. Playing complex pieces like Prokofiev's Second Symphony and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony under Rostropovich’s baton was both challenging and exhilarating for Lambert.
The Rigors and Rewards of Collaboration Lambert shared fascinating anecdotes about the intensity and demands of working with Rostropovich. From performing impromptu recitals for high-profile audiences, including President Reagan, to adapting to Rostropovich’s unpredictable rehearsal schedules, Lambert’s resilience and adaptability were constantly tested. Despite these challenges, the partnership flourished for over eleven years, with the duo performing extensively across Asia, South America, and North America.
The Essence of Musical Partnership The deep musical connection between Lambert and Rostropovich was evident in their performances. They spent significant time together, rehearsing and refining their art, which translated into captivating performances that resonated with audiences worldwide. Their collaboration was a testament to the power of dedication, preparation, and mutual respect in achieving artistic excellence.
Conclusion Lambert Orkis’s journey post-Curtis and his experiences with Mstislav Rostropovich offer invaluable lessons for aspiring musicians. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, preparedness, and seizing opportunities with

Welcome to another episode of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast. Today, we're thrilled to bring you the first part of our interview with the esteemed collaborative pianist and professor, Lambert Orkis from Temple University. This interview, originally conducted last year, delves into the early life, musical beginnings, and career of Professor Orkis. As we reflect on our first guest, we are excited to share his story and insights into his approach to music and life.
Setting the Scene We filmed this special interview at Temple University's Boyer College of Music, specifically in Rock Hall, a beautiful auditorium that provided the perfect backdrop for our conversation. Although the interview is about an hour long, we’ve decided to break it into three parts for easier listening. In this first segment, you'll get to know Lambert Orkis, his early encounters with music, and his journey to becoming a renowned pianist.
The Impact of Professor Orkis Before diving into the interview, Mada and I shared our personal experiences with Professor Orkis. Mada, having worked with him for over five years, expressed how continuously enlightening it is to discover new aspects of his personality and approach to music and life. For me, meeting Professor Orkis was a profound experience, especially since we both graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music and studied under the same teacher, Eleanor Sokoloff. His unique insights into musicianship and his warm, kind nature have left a lasting impression on both of us.
Beginning with Music The interview begins with Lambert Orkis sharing his musical origins. Coming from a blue-collar family with no strong musical background, his journey is particularly inspiring. His family inherited a piano from his grandmother, which sparked his early interest in music. A kindergarten teacher recognized his talent and encouraged his mother to seek formal lessons for him.
Early Lessons and Influences Lambert started his formal piano education with conductor Guglielmo Sabatini, learning to read music and developing his skills. By the age of six, he was already playing advanced pieces like the A major Mozart Sonata. His mother, noticing his talent, sought out the best teachers in Philadelphia, eventually leading Lambert to study with the legendary Eleanor Sokoloff at the Curtis Institute of Music.
Studying with Eleanor Sokoloff At ten years old, Lambert began his studies with Eleanor Sokoloff, a formidable presence and a significant influence on his musical development. He vividly recalls his first lesson, where he barely got through two bars of Schumann’s “Scenes from Childhood” due to the intense focus on phrasing and creating a beautiful sound. Mrs. Sokoloff’s rigorous technical training laid the foundation for his future success, including learning intricate passage work, scales, and arpeggios.
A Path to Excellence Under Mrs. Sokoloff's guidance, Lambert's talent flourished. By eleven, he was performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra and participating in children’s concerts. His dedication and hard work led to his acceptance into the Curtis Institute of Music at the age of thirteen, where he continued his studies for five years. Mrs. Sokoloff’s emphasis on excellence and feeling the music deeply influenced Lambert’s artistic journey.
Reflections on Technique and Training Both Hugh and Lambert shared their experiences with Mrs. Sokoloff's teaching methods. Her approach to technical training was rigorous, ensuring a strong foundation that made learning more complex pieces easier. Lambert’s dedication to practice and his pursuit of technical mastery were evident in his remarkable progress and achievements.
Conclusion This first part of our interview with Lambert Orkis offers a fascinating glimpse into the early life and musical development of a remarkable pianist. His journey from a humble beginning to studying at one of the most prestigious music schools in the world is a testament to his ta

In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting the extraordinary Trio Casals. This ensemble features violinist Timothy Schwarz, cellist Ovidiu Marinescu, and pianist Madalina Dallina. Join us as we dive into their fascinating journey, musical experiences, and the unique dynamics that make Trio Casals a compelling force in the classical music world.
The Formation of Trio Casals
Hugh kicked off the interview by introducing the trio's members. Ovidiu, a founding member, shared the story of Trio Casals' inception in 1996. He reminisced about their performances at prestigious venues like the Rachmaninoff Hall in Moscow and their journey through various collaborations until the trio reformed in its current lineup.
Ovidiu Marinescu: A Life Dedicated to Music
Ovidiu's path from Bucharest, Romania, to the United States is a testament to his dedication. He spoke about his studies in Milwaukee and his transformative experience at Temple University with Orlando Cole. Ovidiu emphasized the importance of musicianship, personal affinity, and promoting the trio, highlighting the unique bond shared by the members.
Timothy Schwarz: From Competitions to Concert Halls
Timothy recounted his journey from Philadelphia to studying under Dorothy DeLay at Cincinnati and Sylvia Rosenberg at Peabody. His academic and performing career led him to Rowan University, where he now heads the string area. Timothy's passion for contemporary music and living composers adds a dynamic edge to Trio Casals' repertoire.
Madalina Dallina: Realizing a Dream
Madalina expressed her excitement about joining Trio Casals, describing it as a dream come true. She shared her background in chamber music and the joy of collaborating with Timothy and Ovidiu. Madalina's commitment to exploring new and contemporary music aligns perfectly with the trio's vision.
Challenges and Aspirations
Hugh asked the trio about the challenges of forming and maintaining a chamber group. Ovidiu emphasized the importance of dialogue, respect, and focusing on common artistic goals. Timothy shared his excitement about bringing contemporary works to life, while Madalina highlighted the personal and professional growth that comes from such collaborations.
Carnegie Hall Debut: A Milestone Event
The trio's upcoming debut at Carnegie Hall on July 15th marks a significant milestone. This concert, featuring works by contemporary composer Carl Vollrath, will be a testament to their dedication and artistic vision. Ovidiu, Timothy, and Madalina are poised to deliver a performance that reflects their collective passion and expertise.
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
In closing, the trio offered valuable advice to young musicians. They emphasized the importance of daring to dream, taking the first step, and embracing the journey with all its challenges and rewards. Their collective experiences serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists to pursue their dreams with determination and passion.
Conclusion
Our interview with Trio Casals was a captivating exploration of their musical journey, individual backgrounds, and the synergy that binds them. We invite you to join us at Carnegie Hall on July 15th for an unforgettable evening of music. Stay tuned for more updates on our website and social media channels. Thank you for supporting the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo blog, and we'll see you at the next episode!
Tickets and More Information
For tickets to the Carnegie Hall concert on July 15th, click here.