Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes
Episodes
Musicians Redefining Success Mid-Career with Sarah Whitney
02 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
For musicians who’ve been at it 10, 20, 30 years and suddenly realize the old definition doesn’t fit the life they actually want now. If you’ve ...
Jose Francisco Pérez Colón - A Contemporaneous Violinist From Dominican Republic In Europe
16 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Jose Francisco shares his incredible story of starting the violin at 17 in the Dominican Republic, overcoming lack of resources, and ...
Can Learning Improvisation Improve Mental Health For Classical Musicians?
29 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Chris talks with a classical violinist and PhD researcher, about the emotional toll of traditional training and how improvisation supports well-being....
Songwriting Strategies: A 360 Degree Approach (Part 2) w/ Mark Simos- Creative Strings Podcast Ep.15
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the second of a two part interview, I sat down with my former colleague at the Berklee College of Music, Mark Simos, to discuss the strategies feat...
Songwriting Strategies: A 360 Degree Approach (Part 1) w/ Mark Simos- Creative Strings Podcast Ep.14
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the first of a two part interview, I sat down with my former colleague at the Berklee College of Music, Mark Simos, to discuss the strategies featu...
Parenting Musicians: Sun & D.D. Jackson’s Journey Through Music
26 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Discover the joys and challenges of parenting musicians in this heartfelt episode of the Creative Strings Podcast. Christian Howes sits down with 15-y...
Overcome Perfectionism as Musicians w/ Dr. Ellen Hendriksen
31 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Break free from the “never good enough” mindset. Chris interviews clinical psychologist and author Dr. Ellen Hendriksen to explore how to overcome...
Embracing Musical Diversity: a journey from classical to folk music with Rebecca Clare Douglas
14 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Discover the transformative journey of Rebecca Clare Douglas in this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, where musical diversity takes center sta...
21 Daily Habits for Musicians | Grow & Be Happy
04 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Discover 21 daily habits for musicians to grow and enjoy their practice, teaching, or careers more. In this video, Christian Howes shares practical ti...
The Value and Nuances of Teaching Improvisation for Music Educators
18 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Marcello DeFrancesco interviews Christian Howes as research for his PHD in music education. They discuss questions related to improvisation, nuances o...
Jazz Violin vs Classical Violin: the difference in Bowing Technique
29 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Violin bow techniques vary between classical and jazz violin playing- listen to learn why it's important to know them both. Follow Dr. Lynn Kuo at her...
Secrets of Versatile High-Functioning Musicians
01 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Christian Howes dives deep into strategies for musicians to master their craft more effectively. Addressing both teachers and players...
Overfill Your Orchestra: How Orchestra Teacher Angela Harman runs a Thriving Orchestra Class
05 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Orchestra teachers- get the exact tactics used by renowned orchestra teacher Angela Harman to Overfill her classroom program, retain students, assess,...
A String Quartet that Grooves w/ Quartet Davis
16 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode I sit down with Emily Edelstein, Molly Tucker, Camille Vogley-Howes, and Karl Henry from Quartet Davis, an exciting string quartet pus...
3 Keys to redesign your practice & become a more Functional Musician
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Wtg32uHwnoo Learn three powerful changes you can make to your practice routine to become a mo...
How to Learn & Remember Chord Progressions to the Songs and Tunes You Play
04 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
To watch this episode as a video go to: https://youtu.be/Vo3BB7Z2Z_U Three simple but powerful methods that will help you overcome the limitation of ...
Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) Therapy w/ Joyu Lee + Mindfulness for musicians.
06 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Therapist, pianist and cellist Joyu Lee shares her expertise in Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) therapy, plus mindfulness and how it can benefit musici...
Music Teachers: Cultivating Excellence & Self Care w/ Adrian Gordon
09 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Developing excellence and improved self-care for music teachers. Our guest Adrian Gordon has taught classroom music for 18 years. His new book "Note t...
Bluegrass Fiddle Tricks & Licks ; Magic Bluegrass Scale with Justin Branum
23 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Learn secrets of how to play bluegrass fiddle and more with Justin Branum - in this video we use the Magic Bluegrass scale as it relates to tunes li...
How to Amplify Violin Viola or Cello w/ Matt Bell of Electric Violin Shop
08 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How to amplify the violin and get a good sound. Electric violin vs acoustic violin. Pickups vs amplifiers. Electric Violin Effects, how to...
Showing up and serving your community with Dr. Quinton Morris
09 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, Chris talks to educator and violinist, Dr. Quinton Morris about his non-profit work, Key to Change, e...
Resourcing tuition-free string teaching programs w/ Violinist/Pastor John "Adidam" Littlejohn
20 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
John "Adidam" Littlejohn shares how he resources his high-level tuition-free string camp www.stringbootcamp.com and how he balances/approaches life...
Opportunities for Musicians to Thrive in the Health Space with Aaron Colverson
14 Jun 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Chris talks to violinist and PhD-candidate Aaron Colverson about his musical journey and areas where musicians can impact the health ...
The Role of Artists in War; How One Ukrainian Violinist Copes & Supports His Country
04 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Violinist Kostia Lukyniuk shares his perspective from Ukraine. Find the full show notes here: https://christianhowes.com/2022/03/04/creative-strings-p...
Electric Violin Pioneer Karen Briggs and the Music of Edgar Redmond.
03 Mar 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this special interview, the legendary pioneering violinist Karen Briggs shares how she has approached her incredible career- and there are so many ...
Balancing Musical Goals and incorporating creativity in the Orchestra Classroom with Austin Scelzo
18 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
How to teach more to your students without burning out? How to prioritize your own musical goals without sacrificing too much of your time. The key i...
How to Become a More Confident & Happy Musician
04 Jan 2022
Contributed by Lukas
5 ways to help improve your relationship with music and the thing at the core of it all. Get my free masterclass at www.christianhowes.com/education
Teaching Adult Violin Students With Marlene Cruz Lozano
15 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Marlene Cruz Lozano shares insights for adult violin students and teachers. Her Violin Bootcamp centers adult women violin students, their goals, and ...
Mindful Practice with Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh
15 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Join us with Guest Speakers Caleigh Drane & William Seiji Marsh as we discuss how to conquer your stage fright and better achieve your musical goals t...
Fiddler Casey Driessen on Collaboration, Rhythm, and Drawing Musical Language from Otherlands
21 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Fiddlers Casey Driessen and Christian Howes discuss extensive clips from Casey’s album Otherlands. We talk about chopping/rhythm, and other aspects ...
Personal Branding and the Modern Classical Musician w/ Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid)
24 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Join us with Guest Speaker Drew Alexander Forde (ThatViolaKid) as we talk about his work as a violist, composer, entrepreneur, and social media wizard...
Music Therapy Techniques for Teachers & Performers w/ Raquel Ravaglioli
10 Mar 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Music therapy techniques in teaching strings.with Raquel Ravaglioli, a board-certified music therapist, music instructor, and professional violinist. ...
"SuperNova”: A Genre-Hopping Explosion of the Suzuki Violin Repertoire with composer, David Cutler
14 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
Composer David Cutler discussed reimagining Suzuki Violin book 1 with new arrangements of the famous pieces in many styles.
How To Really Teach Music Online Easily and Effectively - Creative Strings Podcast Ep.40
01 Sep 2020
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Creative Strings Podcast Christian Howes dives into techniques for easily and effectively teaching music online.
The Art of the Hustle for Musicians- how to pivot during hard times. Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 39
27 Mar 2020
Contributed by Lukas
How to Sell & Offer ANY Freelance services right now (for musicians, music teachers or anyone just trying to figure out ways to get work) Mindset- ...
From classical violist to rockstar influencer w Andrea Whitt - Creative Strings Podcast Ep 38
27 Dec 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Andrea Whitt is a musician who is living the dream. She tours the world with rock stars, manages her own fashion blog, produces fine art, and plays a ...
Hamilton Hardin on Becoming a Complete Musician - Creative Strings Podcast Episode 37
13 Sep 2019
Contributed by Lukas
Hamilton Hardin on Becoming a Complete Musician: Any Genre, Any Instrument Have you ever worked hard learning a jazz tune with all its 9ths, 13ths,...
How to Join a Band and Play Confidently In New Styles of Music - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 36
25 Apr 2019
Contributed by Lukas
If you’re a classical musician who would like to join a band and play confidently in new styles of music, I put together a checklist to make it les...
Jean Luc Ponty on Jazz, Violin, & Musicianship: Creative Strings Podcast Episode 35
21 Mar 2019
Contributed by Lukas
In my full interview with Jean Luc Ponty for the Creative Strings Podcast, we explore key points in his development, musical conception, elements of h...
Joan Griffing: Music for Peace Making & Reconciliation - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 34
07 Jan 2019
Contributed by Lukas
When I was growing up people used to say that you should go into music only if you feel you don't have a choice. For those of us that made that ch...
Stash Wyslouch: Audacity and the Creative Process - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 33
26 Sep 2018
Contributed by Lukas
To be human is to make stuff; creativity is natural. Yet it feels incredibly risky to put our creative work out there for people to vote up or down. I...
Regina Carter, Jazz Violinist: In Her Own Words – Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 32
20 Aug 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Jazz Violinist Regina Carter dives into her inspiring beginnings as a stand-alone jazz violinist, jumping to jazz from classical training, inspiring s...
Creative Functional Musicianship: Season 4 Premiere (solo)- Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 31
06 Aug 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Introducing Season 4 of the Creative Strings Podcast! In this episode I share my newly released arrangement of Bach’s Violin Partita #2 (Giga) and p...
Rez Abbasi- On Practice, Improvisation, & Composition: Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 30
25 May 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Guitarist Rez Abbasi is well known for his distinctive fusing of modern jazz with influences from Hindu North Indian music and Pakistani traditional...
Identity, Injury, and Rewriting a Musician's story with Janet Orenstein
16 Apr 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Imagine, as a musician, if you lost the ability to use your hands. How would you recover? How would you find fulfillment, and what would replace th...
Artistic Pursuance vs The Long Arc w/ Janie Barnett: Creative Strings Podcast EP 28
29 Mar 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Read the blog post here: http://bit.ly/CSpodcast28 Janie Barnett's new CD, "You See This River" is original, personal, and beautiful; the fact that...
The Art and Life of Street Performers w/ Valentin Spurchisi – Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 27
25 Feb 2018
Contributed by Lukas
Remember when classical violinist Joshua Bell played in the subway for 45 minutes and made $32? The author of the story raised questions about artisti...
Why Musicians Need Video - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 26
19 Dec 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Download my video starter worksheet for musicians here(free): http://bit.ly/2kM5bE4 Get my favorite tools- TubeBuddy: http://bit.ly/2q7nkAg Y...
The Intersection of Classical, Jazz, and Flamenco w/ Pablo Martín Caminero
30 Nov 2017
Contributed by Lukas
After staying up until 7 a.m. surrounded by Flamenco guitar, dancing, and singing in a room full of people clapping knowingly along to the Bulería, T...
21st Century Suzuki Teaching With Chili Dog Strings -Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 24
17 Oct 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Neil Fong Gilfillan and Rachel Samson are creative, inspiring young string teachers. Together they run the teaching studio in Frisco, TX called Chili ...
Earl Maneein - Heavy Metal Violinist Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 23
10 Jun 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Although he is a versatile classically trained violinist, Earl Maneein has taken the path less traveled, pursuing his passion for extreme music. S...
Bryan Wilson - Cellist, Composer, Subway Performer - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 22
24 Apr 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Bryan Wilson is a cellist, composer, educator and author of the book Cello Chords. He wrote, produced, and just released a solo debut "Oso Perezoso" ,...
Scott Laird - Teaching Functional Musicianship in Orchestra - Creative Strings Podcast Episode 21
24 Mar 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Scott D. Laird is the Fine Arts Coordinator at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he directs the orchestra and teaches courses...
Finding Your Vision and Reaching Your Goals as an Artist - Creative Strings Podcast Ep 20
08 Feb 2017
Contributed by Lukas
Over thanksgiving I sat down with New York Times bestselling author of The School of Greatness (and my little brother) Lewis Howes. Lewis is a world-c...
How to grow a business for working musicians - Creative Strings Podcast Ep 19
28 Oct 2016
Contributed by Lukas
- commit to run your career like a business and set aside time each week to working on your business articulate very specific goals (no more than ...
Changing Perceptions and Culture with Black Violin - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 18
17 Aug 2016
Contributed by Lukas
"We get to completely change perceptions every time we step on the stage..." Fusing Hip-Hop and Classical I first heard Black Violin when they w...
Finding yourself in different styles of music with Mike Block - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 17
13 Jun 2016
Contributed by Lukas
"I really enjoyed finding myself in different contexts and being able to explore different parts of myself in different styles." Classical Cellist tu...
Prince Tribute - "Sometimes it Snows in April" Christian Howes Cover - Podcast Ep 16
23 May 2016
Contributed by Lukas
In this Short Episode of the Creative Strings Podcast, host Christian Howes shares his tribute to Prince. Prince embodied creativity. His fearlessn...
Violinist.com founder Laurie Niles - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 13
06 Jan 2016
Contributed by Lukas
“We can be kind to one another without comprising excellence…” At the Heart of the violin world, Violinist.com founder Laurie Niles sits down w...
Social Media and Entrepreneurship for Musicians with Colin Thomson - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 12
16 Nov 2015
Contributed by Lukas
ModernMusician.co's Colin Thomson joins Christian as they discuss social media and business strategies for musicians, listen below as you learn about:...
Joe Mchugh: Borderlands of Storytelling, Philosophy, and Fiddle - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 11
03 Oct 2015
Contributed by Lukas
At the intersection of story telling, philosophy, education, and old time fiddle music lives Joe McHugh, a musician who travels with his wife Paula in...
How to Practice Improvisation w/ Alex Hargreaves, Mike Barnett, Elis Bishop, & Greg Byers
12 Aug 2015
Contributed by Lukas
Christian sits down with 4 of the hottest young Creative String players (dubbed "the Young Guns") to discuss their practice techniques, exercises and ...
Electric Violins, Amplification, and effects. How to amplify bowed string instruments.
27 May 2015
Contributed by Lukas
Duncan Monserud joins Christian to discuss the main challenges, choices, and solutions for bowed string players seeking to go electric. Scroll down th...
Tiffany L. Goodman: How to get more gigs as a musician - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 8
24 Apr 2015
Contributed by Lukas
"When you started a band, you started a business." Tiffany L. Goodman of Goodman Artists has been representing artists in jazz, classical and world...
Transcendent musical performances w/ Markand Thakar Pt. 2 - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 7
08 Apr 2015
Contributed by Lukas
Join us in part two of a special two-part episode in which Dr. Markand Thakar challenges us to transcend the ordinary through music. "To absorb you...
Transcendent musical performances w/ Markand Thakar Pt. 1 – Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 6
15 Feb 2015
Contributed by Lukas
Marking Thakar is a music director of the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra and co-director of graduate conducting at the Peabody Conservatory. In this e...
Jazz Violin Practice routine blends technical/creative. Jason Anick- Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 5
12 Jan 2015
Contributed by Lukas
This episode features jazz violinist/mandolinist, Jason Anick, a 28-yr-old rising star and regular instructor at the annual Creative Strings Workshop ...
Performance Psychology for Musicians w/ Dr. Noa Kageyama - Creative Strings Podcast Ep.4
15 Dec 2014
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode with Noa Kageyama: -Noa on nerves and anxiety for the musician/performer. Factors, and causes, solutions. -Simulation of perform...
Matt Glaser Talks Education, Creativity and Mindfulness-Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 3
12 Nov 2014
Contributed by Lukas
The head of Berklee College of Music's American Roots Music Program Matt Glaser discusses changing music education, creativity and mindfulness in musi...
Randall Williams: Indie Musician Bootstrapped Tours on Veggie Fuel - Creative Strings Podcast Ep. 2
14 Oct 2014
Contributed by Lukas
How an indie musician built a touring career living out of his DIY vegetable-fueled van, developing multiple income streams, and ultimately let it al...
Billy Contreras: Country Fiddler and Modern Jazz Violin Master
13 Sep 2014
Contributed by Lukas
Creative Strings Podcast with Christian Howes - Episode 1 Billy Contreras and I sat down to speak at the Creative Strings Workshop to discuss Billy...