Simon James: San Francisco Conservatory of Music Artwork

Backstage: Classical Career 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.

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Backstage: Classical Career Conversations

Simon James: San Francisco Conservatory of Music

July 21, 2025 • Katrina Stroud • Season 1 • Episode 4

Violinist Simon James is a renowned pedagogue at the San Fransisco Conservatory of Music, veteran of the Seattle Symphony for 30 years, and recorder of hundreds of soundtracks. Listen as James talks about being a musician contractor, recording in the symphony and in the studio, and his inspirations as a renowned violin teacher.

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Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok