February 2026 playlist
Never mind me, I’m just listening to one of these tracks on repeat. Can you guess which one?
Category listen up
reading not your thing? now playing: vlog and podcast editions now available!
Over the years, I’ve become sort of compartmentalized in the way I consume information. I no longer zone out on Insta (though I do post there with some regularity), and I only lasted about 3 months on TT. When I…
mini post: an outrageous Popper 29
One of the things I love about working with advanced students (my studio is about 2/3 semi pros) is that they keep me in touch with the gnarliest parts of the repertoire. Just today, I’m getting to revisit Beethoven 6,…
New Year and Jan 2026 playlist
I have deemed 2026 a year of distillation: to live more faithfully in line with hard earned and well-considered authenticity. And for the moments when those aspects do not inform me, I will be still, and I will listen. I…
a pean to the humble humidifer
Last year, in the dead of winter, Henri had multiple seams open up, requiring a trip to the luthier and a re-evaluation of my humidification infrastructure. You see, Henri actually sounds better and is much easier to play in low…
Anything but Crumb-y
The end of the year always makes my fingers itch for something new, or something old to make new again. A few years ago, I was inspired by Josh Roman’s Instagram post where he was being adjusted by an Alexander…
December playlist
Hello friends: just popping in to say hello and drop off a chilled out playlist for the holiday season. If you’d like something less contemporary, here’s the one from last year. I’ve just started reading Katherine May’s book Wintering, and…
November 2025 playlist: Anastasia Kobekina
The next series of playlists will highlight musicians I feel are doing interesting and important things, so each one will feature one or two artists exclusively. This month is all about Anastasia Kobekina, one of my favorite cellists ever. She…
Oof, guys…and October playlist(s)
This year is too much, my friends. I was really making strides—multiple books in progress, regular posting here, applying to doctoral programs, a few speaking engagements and workshops, and renewed inspiration to write and produce music. Starting with my mother’s…
September 2025 playlist
Here’s hoping we are not in “false fall” because I am ready for sweater weather and cozy times. Lots going on here; back soon! xo, em