James Falzone: Joyful Noise from the Pain Stick

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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.

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