Backstage: Classical Conversations

Join host Katrina Stroud as she sits down with professional classical musicians to uncover the personal journeys behind public performances. In each episode, you'll hear conversations that reveal the passion, struggles, and turning points that have shaped the lives of classical musicians.

Hear some of the greatest classical artists in the world share their stories of resilience, artistry, and inspiration and give their advice to aspiring professional musicians. Whether you're a seasoned musician, working student, or someone who loves the transformative power of classical music, this podcast invites you to listen deeply -- to the music, and to the stories behind it.

Love the show? Support Backstage Classical Conversations with a donation at paypal.me/backstageccc — every bit helps us share more inspirational stories!

Podcasting since 2025 • 25 episodes

Backstage: Classical Conversations

Latest Episodes

Jesse Mills: Horszowski Trio

Violinist Jesse Mills is a founding member of the critically acclaimed Horszowski Trio. Listen as he shares his journey from childhood to professional stages, mentorship experiences, and insights into the importance of new music and mentorship ...

July 06, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 3 • 38:46

Devin Moore: Isidore Quartet

Devin Moore is the violist of the internationally acclaimed Isidore String Quartet. Listen as he talks about his musical background from growing up in Pittsburgh to becoming a Kovner Fellow at the Juilliard School. Moore talks about the creatio...

June 22, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 2 • 30:52

Erin Keefe: Minnesota Orchestra

Erin Keefe is the concertmaster of the Minnesota Orchestra and faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music. Listen as she talks about her musical background and education, her Minnesota orchestra audition and experience as concertmaster, th...

June 08, 2026 • Season 2 • Episode 1 • 36:40

Misha Amory: Brentano Quartet

Listen to the season finale with violist Misha Amory, teacher at the Juilliard School and Curtis Institute, and founding member of the Brentano String Quartet, the quartet-in-residence at the Yale School of Music. In this insightful interview, ...

March 23, 2026 • Season 1 • Episode 21 • 47:29

Danielle Belen Part 2: University of Michigan

Professor of Violin at the University of Michigan, Danielle Belen, talks about how she prepares her students for auditions, creating a supportive studio environment, entrepreneurship, and gives her advice to aspiring professional musicians.&nbs...

March 09, 2026 • Season 1 • Episode 20 • 30:38