Trumpeter, composer and conductor Stephen Burns is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Fulcrum Point New Music Project in Chicago. He has been acclaimed on four continents for his virtuosity and interpretative depth in recitals, orchestral appearances, chamber music, and multi-media performances. He has worked closely with many composers such as John Corigliano and  Gunther Schuller. In this interview you’ll hear him talk about some of his mentors including Arnold Jacobs, and Pierre Thibaud. Stephen Burns won several important competitions and awards which helped launch his solo career at a young age,  the Maurice André Concours International de Paris, but touring internationally brings challenges which he discussed candidly with me. Stephen has worked closely with Madeline Bruser and is a certified teacher in the Art of Practicing. 

We talked about mindfulness, the importance of a  student-centered approach to teaching, the deep connection to your audience,programming innovative programs, and specific advice for not only brass players and musicians, but for all of us. 

Although Madeline’s teaching is aimed primarily at classical pianists and other musicians, I find that much of what she talks about will resonate for everybody trying to get in touch with their emotions, their connection to beauty and meaning, and their experience of being in their bodies.

Conversation with Stephen Nachmanovitch, author of Free Play and The Art of Is. Topics include mindfulness and creativity.