Jan 8 2024
Dame Evelyn Glennie: The Art of Listening
In the world of sound and silence, few have navigated the intricacies of deep listening as profoundly as Dame Evelyn Glennie. Our latest podcast episode unveils the remarkable journey of this virtuoso percussionist, whose life story is a symphony of resilience, innovation, and unwavering curiosity. From the prestigious halls of Robert Gordon University to the imaginative minds of children, Glennie's experiences transcend the boundaries of music, inviting us to consider the full spectrum of listening.Evelyn Glennie's tale begins in the pastoral landscapes of Scotland, where a young musician, undeterred by her hearing impairment, confronted the classical music industry's rigid perceptions. Her audacity to challenge a rejection from the Royal Academy of Music not only paved her path to success but also revolutionized the admission process for artists with disabilities. The episode delves into the ethos of her secondary school that nurtured each child's unique potential, revealing how early educational environments can be instrumental in shaping one's future.As the narrative unfolds, Glennie's philosophy of living in the moment becomes the central theme. She articulates the importance of being present, whether it's during a solo performance or a fleeting interaction. The discussion probes into the essence of practice, transforming the mundane into moments of potential and creativity. By redefining dynamics, not as mere musical notations but as emotional experiences, Glennie invites us to listen beyond the surface.The impact of solo percussion on the musical world is another highlight, where Glennie shares her career's pivotal moments, including the normalization of solo percussion as a viable career path. The establishment of a substantial repertoire for solo percussionists is discussed, marking a triumph in the world of music that echoes Glennie's enduring influence.As the episode nears its conclusion, we explore the importance of preserving musical heritage through the Evelyn Glennie Foundation and Collection. This repository of musical stories serves as a beacon for future generations, emphasizing the need to maintain a connection with our cultural past. The episode also touches on Glennie's personal interests, from working with animals to creating jewelry, underscoring the multifaceted nature of her creativity.Our episode with Dame Evelyn Glennie is a masterclass in the art of listening. It encourages us to engage with the world with all our senses, to find music within the challenges we face, and to build a life resonant with purpose and presence. Join us on this auditory journey that promises to change not just how you hear, but how you perceive the world aSupport the showTAKE YOUR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHTS ONE STEP FURTHER WITH PREMIUM MEDITATIONSSubscribe to premium content today and have access to bonus episodes worksheets and meditations. Whether you are looking to relax, recenter, reduce stress, increase motivation, fall asleep peacefully or wakeup ready to take on the day, these meditations and visualizations are for you. You will also have the opportunity to connect directly with me via email to let me know what kind of meditations you are looking for, share your episode insights and suggest guests that you might be interested in hearing from so that I can create content for you!Subscriptions begin at $3/month and subscribers who choose $10 a month subscription also receive a monthly coaching exercise from my client workbook.Interested in finding out more about working with Lisa Hopkins? Visit www.wideopenstages.comFollow Lisa https://www.instagram.com/wideopenstages/