Music & Performance Episodes

In this episode of "Saint Louis in Tune," hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston chat with Rodney Justo, lead singer of the Atlanta Rhythm Section. Justo shares fascinating stories from his extensive music career, including his time with the band and interactions with legends like Roy Orbison and Frankie Valli. The discussion covers the band's eclectic sound, the origins of their name, and the evolution of touring. Justo offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians and reflects on the joys and challenges of the industry. This engaging episode is a must-listen for music lovers and fans of rock history.

Rabbi Brad Horwitz, the Chief Jewish Engagement Officer at the J, discussing the dynamic and multifaceted Jewish culture in St. Louis. Rabbi Brad speaks with hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston about the upcoming Sababa Jewish Arts and Culture Festival, the extensive programs offered by the J, from cultural to educational to community services, and the importance of making Jewish culture accessible. The conversation highlights the integral role of the J in fostering community connections, supporting diverse needs, and promoting cultural enrichment.

In this episode of Saint Louis In Tune, hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston chat with Jeff Faulkner and Jake Brookman of the tribute band, Mr. Blue Sky. The conversation ranges from the importance of live music to the intricacies behind producing an ELO tribute show. Jeff and Jake share their personal stories, discuss their music careers, and detail upcoming concerts, including a major announcement about a future show. They also perform live in the studio, showcasing their talents with a ren...

The Festival of Nations, which represents over 30 countries, features music, food, art, and dance, and aims to highlight the multicultural fabric of the city. Arrey Obenson, President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis, discusses the festival's history, its growth, and its aim to make St. Louis a welcoming and multicultural city. Additional discussion centers around the integration and support of immigrants and refugees in the community, emphasizing the need for patience and understanding with non-English speakers. Obenson calls for community involvement through donations, volunteerism, and support for new arrivals to help them transition and thrive in St. Louis.

This show spotlights the Tennessee Williams Festival in St. Louis, featuring readings, panels, concerts, and exhibitions. The festival, founded in 2015, has gained national acclaim and won 13 awards from the St. Louis Theater Circle. Carrie Houk, Executive Artistic Director, and Tom Mitchell, Scholar in Residence, discuss their contributions, the festival's history, and upcoming events like 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,' 'Lie Upon the Wicked Stage,' scholars' panels, and a walking tour. The discussion covers Tennessee Williams' literary contributions, his inspirations, and his impact on contemporary theater.

Intriguing conversation on a new children's opera titled, 'The Secret of the Gold Queen' which revolves around the conflict between gold and silver chess kingdoms and imparts lessons on kindness, dignity, and respect. Guests Nika Leone, the composer, and Mark Freiman, a lyric bass and stage director discuss their backgrounds, the creative process behind composing an opera, and the significance of exposing children to the arts.

Explore the world of chamber music with internationally acclaimed musicians Nina Ferrigno and Benedetta Orsi. They discuss the upcoming Missouri Chamber Music Festival, the challenges and joys of performing, their unique musical experiences with personal anecdotes, and insights into the musical pieces that have shaped their careers.

An engaging interview with Rick Schuler, a singer, songwriter, adventurer, and John Denver tribute artist. Born in Monroe, Louisiana, and raised in St. Louis, Schuller shares his journey from growing up resembling the famous musician to becoming a John Denver tribute singer admired by Denver's original band members. We delve into Schuller's music career, his connection to John Denver's music, and his performances, including upcoming shows at the Westport Playhouse. Additionally, Schuller disc...

Senior Master Sergeant Ryan Leatherman, superintendent and saxophone player for the United States Air Force Band of Mid America discusses the band's mission, upcoming concerts, and hear fascinating insights about performing for distinguished personalities and international tours.

This episode of 'Saint Louis In Tune' podcast highlights Amy Jo Jackson's cabaret performance and the Tennessee Williams Festival in St. Louis. The conversation delves into Jackson's creative process, the cabaret scene in New York, and community engagement efforts.

Eckert's Orchard, a generational family-owned business blending agriculture, innovation, and community. From the evolution of farming practices to the creation of engaging cookbooks, the discussion captures the essence of Eckert's commitment to family, quality produce, and immersive experiences for visitors.

We delve into the vibrant theater scene in St. Louis, highlighting an in-depth interview with Gary Wayne Barker, a prominent figure in the industry. Discussions range from the challenges of modern theater to the significance of adaptability in the arts. It also features insights from a theater director on the collaborative process and offers valuable advice for aspiring artists in the industry.

This episode of Saint Louis In Tune features an insightful discussion on the fusion of various music genres, including jazz, classical, rap, R&B, Indian music, and more. Seema Kasthuri, a practitioner, performer, and teacher of Carnatic Classical music from St. Louis, Missouri discusses the upcoming event, 'Harmony in Music', set to showcase the collaborative blending of Carnatic classical music with Western jazz improvisation, featuring a diverse lineup of musicians. The dialogue explores the interconnectedness of music, community, and culture.

In this episode of Saint Louis In Tune, hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston welcome Matthew Von Doran, an exceptionally talented guitarist and educator. Matthew offers insight into his background, his teaching technique, and details his 99 Decisions video guitar program. He also reflects on his move from California to St. Louis and how it influenced his career. The hosts and Matthew discuss the power of music in evoking emotion, live looping, the intricate skill behind improv, and Matthew ev...

Jessica Hentoff, Artistic and Executive Director for Circus Harmony discusses and explores the vibrant and supportive community Circus Harmony creates. She talks about Circus Harmony's upcoming show 'Nocturne', along with its variety of classes aimed at all ages. Jessica also sheds light on Circus Harmony's engagement with schools and communities, their efforts to teach crucial life skills through the medium of circus, and their numerous successful alumni. [00:00] Introduction to Circus Harmo...

In this episode of "Saint Louis In Tune," Arnold Stricker interviews Lior Melnick from the a cappella vocal band Six13. They discuss the band's unique blend of traditional Jewish liturgy and contemporary pop song parodies, their recent Hanukkah-themed Taylor Swift parody, and the band's experiences performing at prestigious venues. Lior also shares his personal journey with Six13, highlighting the meaningfulness of creating Jewish music and connecting with people, especially those isolated from ...

Leanne Matthews, the Artistic and Education Director, and Steve Neale, the Music Director, discuss the 14th annual Teen Talent Competition in St. Louis. They provide details about the competition, which is open to high school students and accepts all kinds of talent. The competition offers mentorship, performance opportunities, and scholarships. They also discuss the coaching workshops that help participants polish their performances. Matthews and Neale encourage teens to participate, emphasizi...

Nina Ferrigno, one of the founders of The Missouri Chamber Music Festival (MOCM) talks about the upcoming season (Season 14 in 2024) and Trivia Night on November 10 entitled “Game Changers” which will feature categories inspired by some favorite board games! Tickets are $25 per person or $200 for a table of eight. Bring your own refreshments; bottled water is provided. Click this link to secure your space. MOCM invites nationally recognized professional musicians to historic Webster Groves, M...

Director Rebekah Scallet and actor Bryn McLaughlin joined St. Louis In Tune to discuss the upcoming play, The Immigrant. Based on the true story of Haskell Harelik, the playwright Mark Harelik’s grandfather, who came to America in 1909 - it focuses on his grandmother’s family photo album which documented his grandparents and father’s lives growing up as a Jewish family in the tiny town of Hamilton, Texas. Taken in by a local couple, over the next 30 years, he makes a home and raises a family in ...

This show highlights indie singer-songwriter Devon Cahill and her upcoming appearance with Norbert Leo Butz. Devon was a guest in the studio and discussed her upcoming special guest performance on September 29 at The Sheldon. Norbert Leo Butz is headlining the show and will be releasing his new album Special Notes from Home. Devon talked about her Indie folk song soul style singing and ukelele playing and gave us a performance of a song on an upcoming album. This is Season 6! #devoncahill #ukel...

Kirk Sharp, the Executive Director of the Gordon Parks Museum, discusses his background and involvement with the museum. He shares becoming the Executive Director and highlights the importance of continuous learning and growth. The conversation then shifts to the impact of Gordon Parks on the community, focusing on his approach to photography and his use of the camera as a weapon against poverty, racism, and discrimination. We also discuss Parks' personal connection to Fort Scott and his accomp...

Director Tim Ocel highlights his vision for Suddenly Last Summer, the upcoming production at the Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis (TWSTL) as well as his approach to directing theatre and opera. The Tickets are available at MetroTix. Since 2016, the Festival has attracted thousands to its readings, panel discussions, concerts, exhibitions, and productions, has reached hundreds of young people through its educational programming, and has garnered 13 awards from the St. Louis Theater Circle m...

Mark your calendar for August 26–27, 2023 at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis, Missouri for a celebration of music, flavors, art, and culture from around the world at the annual Festival of Nations. Arrey Obenson, President and CEO of the International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) discusses the Festival of Nations and how the IISTL has played a prominent role in assisting refugees and immigrants in the St. Louis metropolitan area. This is Season 6! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com #fe...

Jeff Faulkner from Mr. Blue Sky was back in the studio to discuss the upcoming concert at Chesterfield Amphitheater on September 8 and how the fan base is growing by leaps and bounds. Mr. Blue Sky was voted the best cover band in 2023 in St. Louis magazine's A-list. Tickets may be purchased at Eventbrite. We also discuss what makes up a successful tribute band. Later, we go through cover songs that were better than the original version. Which ones will be covered? :) This is Season 6! For more ...