Anthony Plog on Music

Ammiel Bushakevitz is a celebrated pianist and chamber musician whose journey through classical music has taken him across six continents, performing in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Concertgebouw, Wigmore Hall, among many more. Born in Jerusalem and raised in South Africa, he discovered his passion for music early on, later studying in Leipzig and Paris under renowned teachers. Ammiel has a particular affinity for the art song, collaborating with leading vocalists and releasing multiple award-winning recordings, including the ambitious project to record all of Schubert's piano works by 2028.

In this engaging conversation with Tony, Ammiel reflects on his deep connection to Schubert’s music, exploring themes of joy and melancholy that resonate in the composer’s works. He shares personal anecdotes about his musical journey, the evolution of his interpretations, and the importance of musical spontaneity in live performances. With insights into the nuances of piano playing and his collaborative experiences with singers, Ammiel’s reflections reveal the profound impact of music on both his life and artistry.

Jasmine Choi, praised as “The Goddess of Flute” by the Korea Times, has made a remarkable impact on the classical music world with her extraordinary talent and innovative approach to the flute. From her early days in a family steeped in music to her groundbreaking role as the first Asian woman to serve as Principal Flute of the Vienna Symphony, Jasmine's career has been marked by significant achievements. She has performed with prestigious ensembles worldwide and is celebrated for her acclaimed recordings and strong mentorship of young musicians.
In this conversation, we explore Jasmine's journey from a young girl in Korea to a global soloist, her experiences at the Curtis Institute of Music and Juilliard, and the challenges she faced in pursuing her passion. Jasmine shares insights into her unique teaching style, her approach to social media, and her deep commitment to making classical music accessible to a broader audience. With stories that resonate deeply, her journey offers inspiration and valuable lessons for anyone pursuing their dreams in the arts.

Rob Schwimmer is a dynamic composer-pianist and renowned theremin virtuoso whose performances have captivated audiences worldwide. With accolades from The New York Times for his blend of “virtuosity, magic, and humor,” Rob's diverse talents shine through in his solo CD "Heart of Hearing," which features the theremin, Haken Continuum, and solo piano. He has collaborated with an impressive lineup of artists, including Bobby McFerrin, the New York Philharmonic, and Simon and Garfunkel, showcasing his unique ability to hang in multiple genres.

In this episode, Rob shares his insights into the theremin's unique sound and its long-standing connection to sci-fi and other film genres. He recounts memorable performances—including a recent debut with the New York Philharmonic—and discusses the intricate relationship between improvisation and formal music training. Rob also demos some of the nuances of the Haken Continuum and the theremin. He shares several engaging stories about working in a variety of  musical settings, from Carnegie Hall to hanging out with Willie Nelson.
(Headshot photo by Michael Weintrob)

Composer Michelle DiBucci is a versatile artist whose work spans theater, opera, dance, and film. Michelle has made significant contributions to contemporary music, having collaborated with renowned ensembles like the Kronos Quartet and created works performed at prestigious venues such as Alice Tully Hall and the Komische Oper in Berlin. Her rich background includes studying under esteemed composers like Louis Andriessen and teaching at Juilliard since 1992, where she shares her passion for music and theater with aspiring artists.
In this first part of our conversation, we explore Michelle's early influences, from her childhood experiences with television soundtracks to her pivotal moment of discovering the relationship between music and visual storytelling. She shares her journey from acting to composing, detailing how mentorship shaped her path and the lessons learned along the way. Michelle’s insights into music composition reveal the intricate balance between creativity and the realities of the industry.
[Subscriber Content] In the second part, we delve deeper into her composition approach and the collaborative process behind her compositions. Michelle discusses memorable projects, including her opera based on Charlotte Solomon’s life, and highlights her thoughts on the changing landscape of music education and the impact of technology on future generations of musicians. This section offers valuable perspectives on navigating a career in music, alongside a reflection on the importance of live performances in an increasingly digital world.

In this special episode, we're joined once again by two extraordinary figures in the world of opera, mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, affectionately known as Flicka, and composer Jake Heggie. Flicka has graced the great opera houses and concert halls for over four decades, known for her captivating performances in roles by Rossini and Bellini, as well as her powerful interpretations of modern works like Heggie's own operas, including Dead Man Walking. Jake is renowned for his operas, having created over ten full-length works, including the widely acclaimed Moby-Dick and, of course, Dead Man Walking.

In Part 1, we delve into their creative partnership, particularly focusing on their song cycle Paper Wings, inspired by Flicka's children. They share personal stories about the songs that resonate universally, illustrating how specific experiences can lead to broader emotional connections in art. The discussion also touches on the joy of collaborating and the importance of maintaining humor in their performances.

[Subscriber Content] In Part 2, Jake and Flicka reveal more about their personal journeys with music and performance, including the importance of pushing through those dreaded "bad days" where things just don't seem to work right. Flicka discusses the emotional depth in her interpretations, while Jake reflects on the significance of trust in music. Their insights provide a deeper understanding of the art of singing, composing, and music in general enriching the listener's appreciation for the nuances of opera and lyrical storytelling. Listen in for a heartwarming conversation filled with memories, laughter, and profound insights into the world of music and creativity.