Episode 28: Beyond the Notes

In this episode of 'Living Well into the Future,' host Julie B. Adler delves into the role of music in fostering community bonds and individual well-being. The episode features Ryan José LaBoy, a singer, conductor, and community musician, and Daniel Anastasio, a solo pianist and artistic director. Ryan discusses his work with the Berkshire Children's Chorus and the significance of community music, while Daniel talks about his chamber music group, Agarita, and their efforts to make classical music accessible to diverse communities in San Antonio. The conversation also touches on El Sistema-influenced youth programs, music education, and the importance of contextualizing music for contemporary audiences.

00:00 Introduction to Living Well into the Future

01:40 Exploring the Power of Music in Communities

02:47 Meet Ryan José Laboy: Singer, Conductor, and Community Musician

04:01 Building Community Connections Through Music

08:03 ComMUSICation: A Youth Development Program

16:22 The Impact of El Sistema Philosophy

19:13 Berkshire Children's Chorus: Embracing Diversity and Community

berkshirechildrenschorus.org & berkshireconcertchoir.org

27:45 Future Episodes and Upcoming Guests

28:30 Daniel Anastasio's Educational Journey

29:19 Tanglewood Music Center Fellowship Experience

31:24 Founding Agarita: A Chamber Music Ensemble

36:47 Innovative Community Engagement During COVID-19

40:21 Connecting Audiences with Classical Music

47:48 The Universality and Context of Music

53:55 Conclusion and Future Episodes