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Opus 50 - The End of the Beginning Apr 30, 2020

The season one finale of Trilloquy features a conversation between Garrett and Am're Ford, who works as a composer, educator and founding director of a nonprofit arts organization. Ford shares his perspective on music education and discusses what he’s learned from starting a summer arts program. Garrett and Scott also share some big news about the future of Trilloquy.

Episode Playlist
Naughty by Nature - "O.P.P."
Steely Dan - "Black Cow"
Lord Tariq & Peter Gunz - "Deja Vu"
Drake - "Emotionless"
J. Cole - "Middle Child"

More
Arts in Action
Am're's Website

Opus 49 - 'High Art' Apr 23, 2020

After fighting against classical music’s rigidly outdated practices as a music teacher, composer and euphoniumist John DelVento decided to take his talents into the world of commercial film and TV music. He chats with Garrett and Scott in this opus about what led to that shift, and he offers his advice for music educators seeking a relevant way to introduce new students to instrumental performance. In honor of 4/20, Garrett and Scott spend the prelude exploring the intersection of classical music and cannabis.
Episode Playlist
Sergei Lyapunov – ‘Hashish’ Symphony
Hector Berlioz – ‘Symphonie Fantastique’
Hildegard von Bingen – ‘Alleluia’
Hugo Schmidt – ‘The Devil’s Tongue’
More
“Cannabis and coronavirus: What you need to know”
John DelVento’s website

Opus 48 - Brown vs. Classical Music Apr 16, 2020

This opus of Trilloquy features part two of a conversation with Maestro Brandon Keith Brown, who filed a racial discrimination suit after he was fired as Brown University’s music director back in 2017. Since then, he’s conducted orchestras in several countries, and he chats with Garrett about how racism in classical music isn’t just an American issue – it’s a global one.

Episode Playlist
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Piano Concerto No. 10

More
”Former Brown University Orchestra Director Alleges Racial Discrimination in 2017 Firing” (Diverse Issues in Higher Education, May 13, 2019)
“Black People Don’t Like Talking About Racism” (Brandon Keith Brown, Medium, April 7, 2020)
Brandon’s website
American Composer Forum’s Response to Covid-19

Opus 47 - Brown vs. Brown Apr 09, 2020

In 2017, Maestro Brandon Keith Brown was named music director at Brown University. A few weeks later, he was fired. The resulting racial discrimination suit that he filed in 2019 has opened up some interesting conversations in the world of classical music. In this opus, Brandon shares his side of the story with Garrett. Garrett and Scott open up this opus with a look at the ongoing impact of social distancing.

More
”Brown University music director claims racial bias in 2017 firing” (Providence Journal, May 12, 2019)
Brandon’s website

**Opus 46 - A Little Less Beethoven** Apr 02, 2020
Orchestras are starting to program more works by women and composers of color, but today those performances are nearly outnumbered by the programming of works by a single composer: Beethoven. That's just one of the surprising statistics professor Rob Deemer has discovered through his work with the Institute for Composer Diversity. He joins Garrett and Scott in this opus to talk numbers and explore why orchestras may want to program “a little less Beethoven.”

**Playlist**
*My Favorite Things (arr. John Coltrane)*

**More**
Support the Institute for Composer Diversity
Resources for artists impacted by COVID-19

Opus 45 - Privileged Mar 26, 2020

According to musician and arts administrator Janis Lane-Ewart, the best way to keep the spirit of Women’s History Month alive year-round is by sparking a sense of curiosity about ALL the women in your life. In this opus, she chats with Garrett about her experiences in music to conclude Trilloquy’s look at Women’s History. Garrett and Scott also offer a few of their Women’s History Month stand-outs, and they conclude the opus with a Janis-dedicated performance by pianist Lara Downes.

Episode Playlist
Amanda Röntgen-Maier - Violin Concerto
Kate Moore & Ashley Bathgate - Stories for Ocean Shells
Amina Claudine Myers - African Blues
Dinah Washington - What a Difference a Day Makes
Florence Price - First Romance

More
Arts Leaders of Color Emergency Fund
Equal Sound Corona Relief Fund

Opus 44 - Sex, Drugs, and Social Distancing Mar 19, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has already had a huge impact on the financial wellness of musicians. In this opus, Garrett and Scott share ways that you can support artists during the crisis. This opus also features a conversation with Blair Tindall, author of Mozart in the Jungle, and a peek into the new album by Singapore-based bassoonist Jo Anne Sukumaran!

Episode Playlist
Modest Mussorgsky - “Tuileries (Children's Quarrel after Games)” from Pictures at an Exhibition
Jo Anne Sukumaran - The Night Garden
More
Contribute to the Artist Relief Tree
Jo Anne Sukumaran's website
Watch Mozart in the Jungle
Read Mozart in the Jungle

Opus 43 - Rock on From the Podium Mar 12, 2020

Being one of the few black woman conductors in the world isn’t the only thing that sets Kalena Bovell apart. In this opus, she chats with Garrett and Scott about her journey to the podium and her deep admiration for metal! To frame the conversation, Garrett and Scott draw connections between rock and classical, and they shout out the black woman who codified the sound of rock ’n’ roll guitar: Sister Rosetta Tharpe.

Episode Playlist
Ludwig van Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 14 “Moonlight” (arr. Tina Setkic)
Metallica – “Nothing Else Matters” (arr. Soren Madsen)
Evanescence – “Lacrymosa” (after Mozart)

More
Sister Rosetta Tharpe
Memphis Symphony Orchestra
Kalena Bovell’s website

Opus 42 - (Still) Classically Black Mar 05, 2020

In February 2019, Garrett recorded his very first Trilloquy conversation with Katie Brown and Dalanie Harris, hosts of the “Classically Black” podcast. The two return in this opus to chat with Garrett and Scott about the benefits and challenges of hosting a classical music podcast, and they offer their perspectives on real solutions to classical music’s lack of diversity.

Episode Playlist
Dobrinka Tabakova – Concerto for Cello and Strings
Jessie Montgomery – Starburst
Anna S. Thorvaldsdóttir – Metacosmos
Jean Sibelius – Symphony No. 1
Nils Boltman – Troubadour Blue
DaBaby – “Shut Up” (arr. Michael Matas)

More
Classically Black

Trilloquy is supported by the Minnesota Orchestra.

Opus 41 - 'Off the Page' Feb 27, 2020

Garrett and Scott wrap up Black History Month with improvisatory composer Davu Seru, who joins them for an in-depth conversation on black history, community, literature, gardening, and music! Seru and deVon Russell Gray share a live improvisation at the end of this opus. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott respond to listener requests by revisiting a previous conversation regarding The American Rhapsody.

Episode Playlist
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor – African Dance No. 1
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor/Aaron Dworkin – The American Rhapsody

Watch
Davu Seru and deVon Russel Gray

Davu Seru and deVon Russel Gray

More
Davu Seru on “Minnesota Original”
“George Washington, the slave owner” blog post
Trilloquy Op. 37

Trilloquy is supported by Naxos of America. Find out more at https://unclassified.com

Opus 40 - Mother King Feb 20, 2020

Composer Dameun Strange’s Mother King tells the story of Alberta Williams King, who was murdered in her church six years after the assassination of her son, Martin Luther King Jr. In this opus, Dameun sits with Garrett to discuss his background in community activism and the origins of his opera. deVon Russell Gray and Sarah M. Greer conclude the opus with a performance of Dameun’s composition Dream Variations.

Episode Playlist
George Frideric Handel – “And He Shall Purify” (from Messiah)

Watch
Sarah M. Greer and deVon Russel Gray - Dream Variations

Dream Variations

More on Alberta Williams King
https://www.atlantamagazine.com/civilrights/the-murder-of-alberta-king/

Opus 39 - 'Close Enough for Jazz' Feb 13, 2020

How do you define jazz? Should it sit side-by-side with “classical” music in the concert hall? At what point does the act of incorporating elements of jazz become cultural appropriation? In this opus, Garrett and Scott explore these questions and discuss jazz’s connection to black music and Black History Month. The two also recap their recent trip to Detroit for the 5th annual SphinxConnect conference, billed as the “epicenter for artists and leaders in diversity.” Garrett and Scott send “get well soon” vibes to Janis Lane-Ewart, who has been rescheduled to a future opus of Trilloquy due to illness.

Episode Playlist
Samuel Barber – Summer Music
Darius Milhaud - La Création du monde
Leonard Bernstein – Symphonic Dances from West Side Story: VII. Fugue ('Cool')
Duke Ellington – Black, Brown, and Beige
Nina Simone – “Love Me or Leave Me,” “Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair,” “Mississippi Goddam,” “Strange Fruit”
Jessie Montgomery – Coincident Dances
Michael Abels – Winged Creatures
Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 5
DaBaby – “Bop”
Joel Thompson – Seven Last Words of the Unarmed
Astor Piazzolla - “Fuga y Misterio”

More
Jazz 88
What Is Jazz?
Apollo’s Fire
Art Accordingly Podcast
Classically Black Podcast
Exigence Ensemble
“Your Guide to Evergreen Programming”
Sphinx Tank 2020

Opus 38 - 'I'm Rooting for Everybody Black' Feb 06, 2020

In 2019, PaviElle French decided to engage both her native Saint Paul community and her hometown orchestra by writing her first “classical” composition. The result was a touching ode to her mother called A Requiem for Zula. At its premiere, Garrett noticed something very interesting – the audience was more diverse than he’d ever seen! In this opus, Garrett and Scott kick off Black History Month in a chat with PaviElle about how this performance served as a catalyst to strengthen the relationship between Saint Paul’s communities of color and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. The three also go into the impact her mother made on her as a musician and what it means to find freedom as a creative artist. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott introduce the question they’ve planned to ask each February guest, and Garrett addresses one organization’s discomfort with his life philosophy.

Episode Playlist
Prince (arr. Stringspace Quartet) – “When Doves Cry”
Gary Clark Jr. – “This Land”

More
PaviElle on Minnesota Originals:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yEG1APKuoI&t=5s
PaviElle with the Current:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSRh9BIJevY

Trilloquy is supported by Naxos of America. Find out more at https://unclassified.com

Opus 37 - Backstage at Orchestra Hall Jan 30, 2020

In response to criticism from attendees at a concert in late 2019, the Minnesota Orchestra took another look at its engagement with audiences of color. Garrett, who was very vocal about this infamous performance, addresses his concerns with Sam Bergman, a violist and 20-year member of the orchestra. In this opus, Sam discusses his journey as a musician, shares his social media strategy, and gives an inside look at the audition process at one of the nation’s great orchestras. In the prelude, Garrett tells Scott about his own journey into a professional orchestra, and the two briefly discuss the implications of taking on a non-leadership role in the arts. The opus concludes with Sam’s performance of In Teaching Others We Teach Ourselves by composer Judd Greenstein.

Episode Playlist
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Overture to The Marriage of Figaro
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - “Der Hölle Rache” (from The Magic Flute)
Judd Greenstein – Change
Judd Greenstein – In Teaching Others We Teach Ourselves

More
Minnesota Orchestra

Opus 36 - Pivot Point Jan 23, 2020

Will Van De Crommert isn’t just a composer – he composes specifically for film, television, web, and advertising! In this opus, Will chats with Garrett and Scott about what it means to be a commercial composer and potential pivot points for making classical music programming align closer with the sounds he creates for a living. Will is joined in the conversation by cellist Vela Farquharson, who offers her unique perspective as a commercial music performer. The opus concludes with a sneak-peek into the score that Will composed for the upcoming web series “Quinn’s Place.” In the prelude, Garrett and Scott recount some of their favorite film scores and shout-out the very first film score!

Episode Playlist
Quincy Jones – The Color Purple
Wendy Carlos/Rachel Elkind – The Shining
James Newton Howard – The Village
Camille Saint-Saëns – L'Assassinat du duc de Guise

More
https://www.willvandecrommert.com/
https://www.velafarquharson.com/

Opus 35 - Shop Talk Jan 16, 2020

In summer 2019, classical-guitarist-turned-radio-personality Melissa Dundis moved from her hometown of Omaha, Neb., to join the classical team at American Public Media! She’s experienced a lot since coming to the Twin Cities, and in this opus Garrett and Scott invite her to Studio B for a laid-back chat about those experiences and her new role. The three also cover their personal philosophies on classical music programming and what it means to “sound” like a classical radio DJ, and they each read a bit of listener feedback. Garrett and Melissa close out this opus with a performance of a piece for flute and guitar by Afro-Brazilian composer, Celso Machado.

Opus 34 - "What School Didn't Teach" Jan 09, 2020

It’s becoming much more common to hear classical music written by women and people of color. Yet, there’s still a disconnect between the growing popularity of this music and its presence in academic curricula. Garrett Schumann is on a mission to change this. The award-winning composer, music theorist, and arts administrator runs the ÆPEX Contemporary Performance project, a concert series and online anthology that serves as a resource for institutions looking to explore diversity – historical and contemporary – within classical music. In this opus, Garrett (McQueen) and Scott chat with Schumann about his life as a composer and music theorist, his views on performance rights management organizations, heavy metal in the classroom, and much more! In the prelude, Garrett and Scott explore how the holes in their formal education have impacted their professional lives.

Episode Playlist
Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges – Violin Concerto
Clarence Cameron White – Levee Dance

More information
aepexcontemporary.org

Opus 33 - New Year Recapitulation Jan 02, 2020

What was your favorite opus of Trilloquy in 2019? In the first opus of the new year, Garrett and Scott chat about their favorite Trilloquy moments from the past year and highlight what they’re looking forward to in 2020. In addition to recapping the first year of Trilloquy, the guys recount some of their other favorite moments and achievements from 2019, and they premiere the show’s new musical theme! Happy New Year!

Episode Playlist
Leonard Bernstein - Overture to Candide
Joaquin Rodrigo - Concierto de Aranjuez
Aretha Franklin - “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”
Ric Ocasek - “Moving in Stereo”
Jessye Norman - “Joy, Joy to My Soul”
Julius Eastman - Evil N-----

Reading
”Julius Eastman’s Guerrilla Minimalism”

Opus 32 - Black Christmas Dec 26, 2019

Kwanzaa is a holiday that you’ve probably heard of, but do you know much else about it? There’s one very important thing you should know: it’s everything BUT a ‘Black Christmas.’ In this special holiday opus, Garrett and Scott explore Kwanzaa by reviewing its guiding principles and applying them to their lives, classical music, and other types of music along the way. The two also talk about Christmas in relation to black traditions and black culture. Special shout-out to JaJaime from one of Saint Paul’s local grocery co-ops for gifting Garrett his first kinara.

Episode Playlist
Astor Piazzolla – “Libertango”
Margaret Bonds – “The Ballad of the Brown King”
Duke Ellington – “Three Black Kings”
Valerie Coleman – “Umoja”
Queen Latifah – “U.N.I.T.Y.”
Maxi Priest feat. Shaggy – “That Girl”
Florence Price – Piano Concerto in One Movement
William Grant Still – Sunday Symphony
Nina Simone – “Go To Hell”
Nathaniel Dett – Magnolia Suite
Sean O’Loughlin – Imani

Opus 31 - Sing, Perform, Affirm, Empower Dec 19, 2019

What does inclusion look like in a women’s choir? The directors of Twin Cities-based Her Voice Productions discuss their efforts to affirm and empower the diverse voices of women through choral performance. In this opus, executive director Elisa Olson and artistic directors Janice Hunton and Randi Grundahl Rexroth explore the inherently political nature of their work. Garrett and Scott recount their respective relationships with choral music and Christmas in the prelude. This opus concludes with two performances by Her Voice Productions’ Encore ensemble!

Episode Playlist
John Williams – “Somewhere in My Memory”
John Williams – “Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas”
Ferrante & Teicher – “Sleigh Ride”
Traditional – “Carol of the Bells”
Bryn Terfel – “O Holy Night”
Kanye West – “Diamonds from Sierra Leone”
Kanye West – “Selah”
Kanye West – “Christmas in Harlem”

Watch

Her Voice Productions ENCORE! "Warrior" Her Voice Productions ENCORE! "What's Keeping You from Singing?"

Opus 30 - Cats, Cops, Conductors Dec 12, 2019

There’s a lot that Garrett misses from his days as an orchestral musician, but one thing he doesn’t miss is dealing with conductors! Over time, he’s managed to meet a few conductors that he gets along with, including Maestro Joshua Weilerstein. In this opus, Garrett chats with Josh about his rise to fame as a conductor, his techniques for being more useful as a leader, and the challenges of programming new music for European orchestras. In the prelude, Garrett tells Scott about his complicated relationship with two other “C’s” – cats and cops.

Episode Playlist
Leroy Anderson – “The Waltzing Cat”
Gioachino Rossini – “The Cat Duet”
Aaron Copland – “I Bought Me a Cat”
Joel Thompson – “Seven Last Words of the Unarmed”
“Sticky Notes” Podcast Episode 136 – Classical Music Changemakers (feat. Garrett McQueen)

Opus 29 - 'Good Ole Day' Dec 05, 2019

In a world of string quartets, symphonies and sonatas, the art of songwriting maintains its status as one of the most important modes of musical expression. In this opus, Garrett and Scott chat with Kashimana Ahua ⁠— a singer-songwriter, composer, producer, lyricist and artist from West Africa who found a new home ⁠— and so much more ⁠— after moving to Minnesota. In the prelude, the guys recall some of their favorite songs and briefly discuss a work that was originally titled “The N----- Quartet.” This opus concludes with a performance of an original song by Kashimana that was inspired by prompts written by the hosts.

Episode Playlist
Antonin Dvorak - String Quartet No. 12 ”American”
Modest Mussorgsky - ”Bydlo” from Pictures at an Exhibition
Charles Ives - ”The Cage”
Government Mule - ”Going Out West”
The Fugees - ”Killing Me Softly”
LP - “Lost On You”

Watch
Kashimana Ahua - "Good Ole Day"

Kashimana Ahua - "Good Ole Day" Kashimana Ahua - "Good Ole Day" (Sound Check)

Kashimana Ahua - "Seasons"

More
www.kashimana.com

Opus 28 - Cultural Cornucopia Nov 28, 2019

Aside from family, friends and food, Thanksgiving is a time of year some find a little challenging due to the way it has perpetuated a false narrative concerning Indigenous communities and European colonizers. In this opus, Garrett and Scott chat with George Maurer on this subject. He’s a world-traveling composer who has made authentic connections with communities everywhere, including some of North America’s Indigenous reservations. In the prelude, the hosts talk about their relationships with Thanksgiving, some of the music they associate with this time of year, and a Pulitzer Prize-winning composition that provoked an Inuit musician to call foul.

Episode Playlist
Mark O'Connor – Johnny Appleseed Suite
Bing Crosby – “I’ve Got Plenty to Be Thankful For”
Kanye West – “Say You Will”
Tanya Tagaq on Inuit Throat Singing
Caroline Shaw – Partita

Reading
“Caroline Shaw Sings Her Own Song”
Caroline Shaw/Roomful of Teeth Public Response to Appropriation Claim

Opus 27 - Use Your 'Voice' Nov 21, 2019

Music therapy is a corner of classical music that most people don’t know much about, yet it’s a field that’s an essential part of countless lives! In this opus, Garrett and Scott chat with music therapists Claire Klein and Lyndie Walker, who specialize in childhood development and hospice care. The conversation even touches on the importance of diversity and cultural competency in music therapy. In the prelude, Scott honors his late friend Bob Christiansen, whose career as a radio host spanned 51 years.

Episode Playlist
Georges Bizet – “La Fleur Que Tu M'avais Jetee” (from Carmen)
Alexander Borodin - In the Steppes of Central Asia
Franz Joseph Haydn – “Farewell” Symphony
Lil Nas X – “Old Town Road”

Visit
http://www.toneworksmusictherapy.com/

Opus 26 - 'It's Time To Let Classical Music Die' Nov 14, 2019

In June 2019, the classical music world was rattled by an article titled “It’s Time To Let Classical Music Die.” What Nebal Maysaud didn’t know when they wrote it was that they would start an internet movement! In this opus, Scott and Garrett chat with Nebal about this article, some of their other writings and compositions, and the implications of sustaining Western classical music as a “superior” art form. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott honor the recently deceased actor and comedian John Witherspoon, and they tease the upcoming Trilloquy Performance Series!

Episode Playlist
Christopher-Joel Carter (arr.) – “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”
Abdel Halim Hafez عبد الحليم حافظ – “Khosara” خساره
Jay Z – “Big Pimpin’”
Nebal Maysaud – “Colonized Arabesques”
Umm Kulthum ام كلثوم – “Alf Leila We Leila” الف ليلة وليله

Read
“It’s Time to Let Classical Music Die”

Opus 25 - The Space Between Nov 07, 2019

As far as western audiences are concerned, there are only eight notes in a scale. But, elsewhere in the world, the space between those notes represent some of the most important aspects of music! In this opus, Garrett and Scott explore “the space between,” musically and otherwise, with Indian classical artists Nirmala Rajasekar and Thanjavur K. Murugaboopathi. The four chat about the similarities and differences between western and Indian classical music, and they explore how a physical or emotional feeling can manifest musically! This opus also includes a live, in-studio performance by Nirmala and Boopathi, and the hosts conclude by sharing the gifts they received from this week’s guests.

Suggested Listening
Nirmala Rajasekar - Song of the Veena
Ram Narayan, arr. Kronos Quartet - “Raga Mishra Bhairavi: Alap”
Jeff Ray - “Cottonwood”
Ry Cooder and Vishwa Mohan Bhatt - “A Meeting by the River”

Opus 24 - The Spooktacular Oct 30, 2019

In this special opus, Garrett and Scott celebrate the spookiest time of year with two original stories. The first story was inspired by the tradition of one-handed piano works, and the second was inspired by the life of composer and pianist Florence Price, whose family "escaped" to the north. Both stories feature the voice talent of previous Trilloquy guest Meghann Oglesby. The guys also revisit a few Halloween standards from the classical music repertoire and share some of their other Halloween favorites.

Episode Playlist
Tomaso Albinoni – Adagio for Violin, Strings, and Organ
Bernard Herrmann – “Psycho Suite”
Edvard Grieg – "In the Hall of the Mountain King"
Charles Gounod – “Funeral March of a Marionette”
Hector Berlioz – “Symphonie Fantastique”
Camille Saint-Saens – “Dance Macabre “
Aram Khachaturian – Waltz from the “Masquerade Suite”
Maurice Ravel – “Piano Concerto for the Left Hand”
Johann Sebastian Bach – Chaconne from Partita No. 2 in D minor
Ludwig van Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 14 "Moonlight"
Franz Liszt – “Totentanz”
Traditional – “Wade in the Water” / ”City Called Heaven”

Opus 23 - Take Me to Church Oct 24, 2019

Among the many things Garrett and Scott have in common is their discomfort with organized religion. But, as part of an effort to explore every corner of classic styles of music, the two attended a service at Minnesota’s oldest black congregation: Pilgrim Baptist Church. Garrett met Pilgrim Baptist’s music director, Jacob Dodd, while playing with the Illharmonic Orchestra. In this opus, Garrett and Scott chat with Jacob about life as a church musician, his journey back home after attending a historically black college, and ideas on how churches can offer a more welcoming experience. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott review the movie Joker.

Suggested Listening
Thee Phantom and the Illharmonic Orchestra – “Double Trouble” / ”Jackin’ for Keys”
Christopher Brinson – “What if God is Unhappy”
Josephine Poelinitz (arr.) – “A City Called Heaven”

Opus 22 - Musician, Muse, Mother Oct 17, 2019

Earlier this year, Garrett and Scott recorded Trilloquy in a live event hosted by American Public Media's Legacy Society. This event served as a celebration of the 200th anniversary of composer Clara Schumann. Listen as they explore the life and legacy of Schumann as a musician, muse and mother. Guests include violinist Sofia Schutte, pianist Ines Guanchez, national classical music host Melissa Dundis and Performance Today producer Meghann Oglesby.

Opus 21 - The Black Employee Meeting Oct 10, 2019

With more than 1 million daily listeners on more than 230 public radio stations, Performance Today is the most listened-to classical music radio program in the nation. In this opus, producer Meghann Oglesby chats with Garrett about her journey to this important position and how she adds a unique touch to Performance Today as a woman of color and a mother. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott talk about their recent trip to Minnesota’s North Shore, and the two offer a special dedication to opera singer Jessye Norman.

Opus 20 - Classic vs. Classical Oct 03, 2019

The phrase “classical music” will always be attached to the works of Beethoven, Brahms and Mozart, but what if that phrase was connected to other “classic” styles and artists? Earlier this year, Garrett visited the Jennings School in St. Paul, Minn., with that exact question, and the students were more than happy to share their ideas. In this opus, Garrett and Scott unpack what a few of those students had to say about what they consider music that’s a “classical” part of their experiences – from works by Brahms and Verdi, all the way to Tupac and Beyonce. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott talk about music that’s classic to their experiences, and they share examples of how the power of “classical” music enriches their lives.

Opus 19 - WUOT Sep 26, 2019

Melony Dodson is much more than just a local public radio host – she’s a Knoxville institution. For the past decade, she’s enriched the lives of listeners in eastern Tennessee with music that bends genres and stretches across time. Lately, she’s shifted her focus to music written and performed by women. In this opus, Garrett speaks with his former colleague about her programming choices, gender equity in classical music, and how women and men can be allies in this type of work. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott discuss their relationship with the #MeToo movement. The episode ends with a jingle that Melony and Garrett performed live, on-air, during a WUOT Member Drive.

Opus 18 - Moving Through Gateways, Part 3 Sep 19, 2019

Being a member of the all-black Gateways Music Festival Orchestra is an incredible experience for musicians who never play with people who look like them, but the fusion of classical music and the black experience is all Jennifer Arnold knew growing up. In this opus, Garrett chats with Jen about her classically black upbringing, and her recent decision to leave the Oregon Symphony for an arts administration position in Virginia. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott recount their recent visit to a Bavarian-style beer hall, and Scott previews the next episode of his show, Hop Notes.

Opus 17 - The Read Sep 12, 2019

In February, 19-year-old Cameren Williams pitched her book, Kinderlute, to a team of investors at the Sphinx Conference. She didn't win the top prize, but she did catch Garrett's attention, who hosted the event. In this opus, Garrett talks to Cameren about her book, the process of preparing for a pitch presentation, and life at the Juilliard School of Music. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott chat about their standouts in Bob Watt's book, Black Horn, and Garrett talks about his time at his first Tyler, the Creator, concert.

More: Classical Kids Storytime - Kinderlute

Opus 16 - Black Notes on White Pages Sep 05, 2019

The American Composers Forum was founded in 1973, with the goal of making composers, and the music they create, a vibrant and integral part of human culture. These days, the ACF is working to broaden the way it defines “composer.” In this opus, Garrett and Scott talk with Vanessa Rose, the ACF’s president and CEO, about how the organization can play a role in the larger conversations surrounding diversity and inclusion. The three also tackle the subject of gender vs. racial equity, and preview an upcoming forum hosted by the ACF on the topic of diversity among composers and writers of creative music. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott talk about their visit to the Minnesota State Fair, and Scott reveals why he envies aspects of black history and culture.

Opus 15 - Moving Through Gateways, Part 2 Aug 29, 2019

Performing alongside Beyonce is just one of the many accolades Jessica McJunkins is proud of. The full-time freelancer/contractor has collaborated with many stars in the pop music industry. She speaks with Garrett about the challenges of traversing this corner of the violin world. Jessica compares the all-black Gateways Music Festival to Beyonce’s all-black Coachella performance, and she explains why “Queen Bey” serves the next generation of classical musicians by putting string players on the main stage. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott talk about Jay-Z’s deal with the NFL, and they respond to a listener who questions Scott’s involvement with Trilloquy.

Opus 14 - Go-Go No-No Aug 22, 2019

The physical and cultural colonization of the land now called America has only continued since the first Europeans arrived, and Quanice Floyd has dedicated her career to quelling it. The music-teacher-turned-arts-administrator explores this topic with Garrett, drawing connections between the destruction of indigenous communities to the violent gentrification plaguing communities of color today. She also talks about integrating musical styles like ‘Go-Go’ into her classroom, and how it got her into hot water. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott recount their relationships with indigenous education, and Garrett addresses his latest social media drama.

Opus 13 - A Different Stage Aug 15, 2019

As oboist David Norville enters his final year as a student at the New England Conservatory, there’s one thing he knows for sure – he doesn’t want to become a professional oboist. In this opus, he speaks to Garrett about why he wants to occupy a different sort of stage and the systemic issues that led him to this discovery. The two also chat about a few of their musical and nonmusical heroes, including a mentor they have in common. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott apply the remake of Disney’s “The Lion King” to their personal lives and how some of those stories apply to their family and social relationships.

Opus 12 - dVRG Rondo Aug 08, 2019

Composer deVon Russell Gray (dVRG) doesn't believe in classifying music by genre, and his catalog proves it. In this rondo-styled episode, Scott talks with Gray about his appointment as composer-in-residence with Minnesota's Schubert Club, how his music addresses racial tensions in his native St. Paul and how he plans to combat what he describes as "outdated programming." Garrett and Scott also unpack some of Gray’s non-musical responses, including the relationship between black communities and law enforcement, and the differences between equality and equity.

Opus 11 - Moving Through Gateways, Part 1 Aug 01, 2019

Classical music is filled with diversity initiatives, but the Gateways Music Festival is not one of them. Every other year, musicians of African descent convene in Rochester, N.Y., to serve a love of classical music where it meets a love for blackness within the art form. The festival is run by Chicago-born pianist, educator and advocate Lee Koonce, who strongly believes that “black people have been involved in classical music since there’s been something called classical music.” Garrett chats with him about the festival, including some of the history of the relationship between race and classical music. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott touch on the topic of “cancel culture” and shout out a few black musicians of centuries passed.

Opus 10 - Cruzando la Frontera Jul 25, 2019

Alex Rosales Garcia lived as an undocumented immigrant in California until 2005. Today, he’s a full-fledged U.S. citizen. In addition to performing as a member of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, he teaches the next generation of Mexican-American musicians in Southern California. In this opus, Garrett chats with Alex about his illegal border crossing and how his Mexican heritage serves as an advantage in his career as a teacher and performer. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott talk about some of their cross-country moves and the importance of friendship along the way.

Opus 9 - Old White Guy Realm Jul 18, 2019

Although many people understand that classical music comes from more places than western Europe, the stigma still exists, and it must be challenged. In this opus, Garrett chats with Katy Henriksen, who does her part in fighting that stigma as a classical radio host at KUAF-FM in Arkansas. She offers a peek into her programming techniques, and also offers a look into the culture of the northwest part of her state. In the prelude, Garrett and Scott rehash their recent vacations, and discuss a poignant article that calls for the death of classical music.

Opus 8 - B-Boy Meets Beethoven Jul 11, 2019

When a young Jeffrey McNeill discovered that the Beastie Boys’ “Paul Revere” fit perfectly with the opening movement of Beethoven’s 5th, he discovered what would eventually become his life’s passion. Now fully grown, Jeffrey, aka Thee Phantom, and his wife, Andrea, aka The Phoenix, lead Illharmonic, an ensemble that fuses classical music with classic hip-hop. Garrett explores why this concept is important to them, and how it informs music lovers on both the hip-hop and classical music sides of the aisle. Garrett and Scott touch on their relationships with social media in the prelude, and the opus concludes with an Illharmonic performance.

Opus 7 - Money Over Music Jul 04, 2019

Are you a sellout for choosing money over a career in the arts? In this episode, Garrett has this conversation with Peter Colin, a New York City-based trombonist and music teacher turned lawyer. As an introduction, Garrett and Scott explore their respective relationships with the topic of money vs. music.

Opus 6 - Pride in Prejudice Jun 27, 2019

In this edition of Trilloquy, Garrett and Scott talk about what Pride Month means to them. Garrett also chats with Johnathan Gibbs, who is a member of the New York City Gay Mens’ Chorus. The two discuss Johnathan’s move to New York, and how a chorus for gay men, exclusively, lacks inclusion and representation.

Opus 5 - Juneteenth Jun 20, 2019

This episode of Trilloquy features an in-depth conversation between Garrett and Scott about Juneteenth. After a refresher on what Juneteenth is, the two explore their connections with American slavery, its reverberating effects on U.S. culture, and the importance of black awareness in and outside of classical music.

Opus 4 - Allied Jun 13, 2019

This episode of Trilloquy features the final interview Garrett conducted at the 2019 Sphinx Conference. He speaks with Performance Today producer Kathleen Bradbury about what it means to be an ally to people of color in classical music as a white woman. Garrett and Scott set the stage for this conversation by sharing their thoughts on what it means to be an ally, as well as exploring the idea of intersectionality.

Opus 3 – Collaborate and Listen Jun 06, 2019

Mental health is a topic everyone is paying more attention to these days. In Opus 3 of Trilloquy, Garrett and Scott talk about their relationships with mental health awareness and how working in radio can have a huge impact on it. Garrett also shares the second interview he captured at the 2019 Sphinx Conference, featuring collaborative pianist Brandon Coffer. Don't call him an accompanist!

Opus 2 May 30, 2019

Katie Brown and Dalanie Harris became friends while attending the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, N.Y. The experiences they share as black women in classical music led them to creating their own podcast, Classically Black. In this episode, Garrett and Scott talk about some of the challenges they've experienced in conversations surrounding race, followed by an interview that Garrett conducted with Katie and Dalanie in February at the Sphinx Conference in Detroit.

Opus 1 May 23, 2019

Why is representation in classical music important? What does it feel like for black millennials in the concert hall? How is the music experience unique at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs)? Garrett and Scott explore those topics, and more, before hearing from Marion Dooley, who reached out to Garrett after seeing him perform with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. Marion shares his perspectives, and offers insight into a world he thinks more people should know about.

Overture No. 1 May 23, 2019

Welcome to Trilloquy, true and real stories from the fringes of classical music. In the Overture, hosts Garrett McQueen and Scott Blankenship introduce themselves by recalling the journeys that brought them together. The two also lay out the path toward the podcast, its purpose and where they plan to take it. The world of classical music is much like the rest of the world!

Trilloquy: True and real stories from the fringes of classical music May 21, 2019

Check out our new podcast, Trilloquy! Hosts Garrett McQueen and Scott Blankenship bring you true and real stories from the fringes of classical music every week. Coming soon.

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