Eugene Watanabe: Gifted Music School 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

Eugene Watanabe: Gifted Music School

August 04, 2025 • Katrina Stroud • Season 1 • Episode 5

Eugene Watanabe founded the Gifted Music School with his wife Dr. Vera and was the first person to graduate Curtis with a double degree in violin and piano. Listen as he talks about his violin and piano careers, starting the Gifted Music School, and his true passion for teaching music to young students.

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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