James Falzone: Joyful Noise from the Pain Stick

Today, the Spotlight shines on clarinetist, penny whistle player, composer, improviser, and educator James Falzone.

This discussion was recorded back in early March of 2024. I reached out to James shortly after seeing him perform with the bassist and vocalist Katie Ernst in their duo Wayfaring. I was initially hoping to record them together but an even better outcome came about: I had separate discussions with each of them, which allowed us to expand beyond their work together and learn more about them both as people, players, and thinkers. Thus, a two-parter: next week's episode will feature Katie Ernst.

As for today's episode, we recorded this talk in person in a very special space at Cornish College Of The Arts here in Seattle, where James is both a Dean and Professor of Music. I was very excited to sit in the room the school's founder, John Cage, likely used as her sitting room and study about 100 years ago. It was also a thrill to consider that I passed through rooms where John Cage and John Cage likely met or spent time. I have to thank James here for making that happen. Thank you, James!

James and I spoke for nearly two hours. His instinct to record in person on a Saturday in Seattle allowed us to go slow and let the conversation unfold. As always, I am grateful to producer Michael for transforming the discussion into what you are about to hear.