Category Archives: MFM Podcast

MFM PODCAST EPISODE 9: Mark Deutsch discusses the artistic and professional processes and aspects of his pursuit of a unique musical vision

In this episode of the MFM Speaks Out, Dawoud Kringle interviews California based musician, improviser, composer, and inventor of the Bazantar Mark Deutsch about his personal evolution from contrabass and sitar virtuoso to designing an unprecedented musical instrument, his artistic and spiritual philosophies on music, and the struggles of being an innovator and iconoclast. Mark started as a “go to guy” on both bass and sitar, before immersing himself in the Bazantar. He produced The Fool, his first recording of the Bazantar, and recently, The Picasso Tunings; a four CD release of music utilizing a set of tuning systems and templates for composition and improvisation that has no historical precedent. In 2019, after releasing The Picasso Tunings, he embarked upon a solo tour of the US, traveling cross country, and introducing his music to a wider audience. He is presently at work upon a new composition based on the I Ching (“The Book of Changes;” a Chinese book of divination dating back to the 10th century b.c.).

CD Review: Mark Deutsch (NY): Virtuoso Musician, Inventor, and Visionary

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MFM PODCAST EPISODE 7: Stephen Johnson Discusses Issues Facing Musicians Today

In this episode of MFM Speaks Out, Dawoud Kringle interviews guitarist Stephen Johnson; Polydor recording artist formerly of Victorian Parents, and Son of John, and presently with Future350), musical director of the Movita Dance Theater, and the co-founder and head of the MFM Hudson Valley Chapter.

Some of the topics discussed will include the changes in the music scene in Johnson’s native Staffordshire UK, Cork County Ireland, and the US, the changing issues facing musicians today (especially in the pandemic), the need for community and solidarity, and the founding of MFM’s first chapter outside New York City.

The following music featured in this episode is provided courtesy of Stephen Johnson. Continue reading →

“MFM SPEAKS OUT:” MFM Started A Podcast!

PodcastIn the debut episode of the MFM SPEAKS OUT podcast series, host Dawoud Kringle interviews saxophonist, composer, music educator, and music rights activist David Liebman. The topics discussed include jazz history, the process of music education, changes in the music profession, and the history and development of musician’s rights activism. Liebman brings a perspective on the music business and music activism that focuses on the issues relevant to the modern musician. The two songs are courtesy of David Liebman: Journey Around the Truth with Andy Emler, and Round Midnight with Richard Beirach. Liebman is a member of MFM’s advisory committee.