Ep36 Conducting & Artistic Fluency - Ruairi Edwards

Choir master and composer Ruairi Edwards talks about how he learned to conduct, and the process he went through. He also tells an interesting story involving Bobby McFerrin, all with a unique soundtrack.

Ruari shares his journey from pianist to conductor, highlighting the challenges and mentorship that shaped his career. A significant moment discussed is his experience conducting Mozart's Requiem, which solidified his identity as a conductor. The episode delves into the emotional impact of music, the importance of personal connections, and the balance between technical skill and creativity.

Ruairi music on Spotify 

Transcription page 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Song Exploder podcast - Maddison McFerrin

Timestamps (by podsqueeze)

Podcast Episode Timestamps

Introduction to Rauri Edwards (00:00:06)
Rauri shares his background as a choral conductor and composer.

Types of Choirs Conducted (00:00:27)
Rauri discusses the diverse choirs he conducts and his musical versatility.

Improvisation Exercise (00:01:39)
The host plays improvised music, prompting Rauri to share his thoughts and emotions.

Emotional Response to Music (00:03:13)
Rauri describes the calming, colorful feelings evoked by the improvised music.

Thought Process in Improvisation (00:04:53)
The speakers explore the mental space involved in improvising and creating music.

Breath and Vocal Support (00:05:57)
Rauri connects breath control in singing to natural musical expression.

Storytelling and Soundtrack (00:07:04)
Rauri shares a personal story about his journey to becoming a conductor.

Initial Struggles with Conducting (00:07:40)
He reflects on the challenges and learning experiences of his early conducting days.

Conducting Mozart's Requiem (00:10:15)
Rauri recalls conducting this significant piece and the preparation it required.

Finding Unique Expression (00:08:49)
He discusses the journey to develop his unique conducting style.

Impact of a Mentor (00:09:47)
Rauri shares valuable lessons learned from an influential conductor.

Turning Point in Conducting (00:10:12)
Rauri describes the pivotal experience of conducting an oratorio with an orchestra.

Improv and Artistic Process (00:13:59)
Rauri reflects on the improvisational challenge presented by the host.

Bobby McFerrin Experience (00:15:37)
Rauri recounts a transformative week spent with Bobby McFerrin.

Personal Connection with Bobby (00:16:14)
He shares a meaningful conversation that impacted him during a rough time.

The Importance of Being Seen (00:17:05)
Rauri emphasizes the value of making others feel valued and seen.

Remembering Names (00:18:04)
Rauri discusses his effort to remember people's names in his choir.

Maya Angelou Quote (00:18:34)
He reflects on a quote capturing the essence of human connection.

Setting of the Bobby McFerrin Experience (00:19:05)
Rauri describes the beautiful countryside location of the gathering.

Musical Reflection of Emotions (00:21:58)
The host and Rauri analyze the emotional progression in the music played.

Bobby McFerrin's Musical Influence (00:22:19)
Rauri discusses the unique musical qualities of Bobby McFerrin.

Podcast Insights (00:23:38)
Rauri shares his enjoyment of discussing important life processes.

Closing Remarks (00:24:20)
The host thanks Rauri for his insights and encourages listeners to join next week.