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Backstage: Classical Career Conversations

Backstage: Classical Career Conversations

Written by: Katrina Stroud
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About this listen

Join host Katrina Stroud as she sits down with professional classical musicians to uncover the personal journeys behind public performances. In each episode, you'll hear conversations that reveal the passion, struggles, and turning points that have shaped the lives of classical musicians.

Hear some of the greatest classical artists in the world share their stories of resilience, artistry, and inspiration and give their advice to aspiring professional musicians. Whether you're a seasoned musician, working student, or someone who loves the transformative power of classical music, this podcast invites you to listen deeply -- to the music, and to the stories behind it.


Love the show? Support Backstage CCC with a donation at paypal.me/backstageccc — every bit helps us share more inspirational stories!

© 2026 Backstage: Classical Career Conversations Art Entertainment & Performing Arts Music Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Paul Watkins: Yale School of Music

    Paul Watkins: Yale School of Music
    Jan 5 2026

    Paul Watkins is an esteemed cellist on faculty at the Yale School of Music and a member of the Emerson String Quartet starting in 2013. He discusses the influence of his musical education, the importance of mentorship, and the experiences that shaped his career. Paul also reflects on his dual passion for conducting and teaching, emphasizing the significance of showing up and learning in every musical endeavor.

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok
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    34 mins
  • Robert McDuffie: Center for Strings

    Robert McDuffie: Center for Strings
    Dec 16 2025

    Violinist Robert McDuffie talks about obtaining his Guaneri del Gesu violin in a limited partnership, starting the Robert McDuffie Center for Strings, and creating the Rome Chamber Music Festival.

    To learn more about the McDuffie Center visit: mcduffie.mercer.edu

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Robert McDuffie: American Violinist

    Robert McDuffie: American Violinist
    Dec 1 2025

    Robert McDuffie is a distinguished American violinist. Listen as he talks with host Katrina about his musical mentors including Dorothy DeLay and Yehudi Menhuin and lessons he learned while touring around the world. McDuffie tells the stories of monumental moments in his career such as performing for Samuel Barber and commissioning the Phillip Glass violin concerto, the American Four Seasons. Part 2 to come.

    Support the show

    Producer and Editor: Katrina Stroud

    Follow us on Instagram: @backstageclassicalpodcast

    Intro and Outro Music: Beethoven Sonata No. 1, III. Rondo performed by Katrina Stroud and Leila Lok
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
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