Kenny Werner: Pianist, Composer & Author of "Effortless Mastery"

02/18/24 • 54 min

What does "mastery" mean? Eugene Friesen sits down with esteemed jazz pianist and composer - and dear friend - Kenny Werner to share their journeys towards effortless playing and self-discovery
Together, they discuss how being present in the moment and connecting with something eternal through music resonates with others through authentic expression. They navigate the intricate nuances of transcending self-identification as musicians, embracing body and mind awareness, and finding joy in the present moment through music.

Learn about shedding performance anxiety and redefining the practice of music, plus techniques for practicing piano effortlessly, honing improvisation skills, and overcoming overwhelm in the face of musical challenges.

But beyond technique, Kenny and Eugene delve into the spiritual dimensions of music, discussing its role in harmonizing spaces and fostering peace in a chaotic world. Full of insight, stories, and humor, Kenny reveals an approach to music that is refreshingly light and yet deep in the extreme.

_____
Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
Follow us on Facebook
Hosted by Eugene Friesen

_____
Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
Follow us on Facebook
Hosted by Eugene Friesen

Previous Episode

The Habits of Healing and Devotion, and the Feminism in Rhythm with Glen Velez

Four-time Grammy Award-winner, Glen Velez, is legendary figure in the modern frame drum movement, revered worldwide by musicians and audiences alike. His pioneering influence reshaped contemporary music, introducing a new genre of drumming inspired by years of percussion and frame drumming studies across diverse cultures.

In this episode, Glen shares his captivating journey with host Eugene Friesen, unfolding his virtuosic combinations of hand movements, finger techniques, and original compositional style. Learn about his innovative approach, incorporating stepping, drum language, and Central Asian overtone singing.
Eugene and Glen delve into rhythmic revelations, exploring the transformative power of vocalizations, the spiritual dimensions of music as devotion, and the harmonic magic uncovered by slowing down rhythms. The episode also spotlights the nuanced interplay of frame drums, guided by Glen's pioneering techniques.
Join Eugene Friesen and the iconic Glen Velez on this illuminating journey through rhythm, harmony, and the soulful dimensions of musical expression. Tune in and let the beats guide you Beyond Mastery.

_____
Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
Follow us on Facebook
Hosted by Eugene Friesen

Next Episode

Underground Audiences: From Earth to Heaven with Bach, Humor, and Dobbs

A master storyteller and devotee of Bach's cello suites, Richard Hartshorne aka Dobbs has dedicated his life to bringing music to the most unlikely places around the world. In this episode with Eugene Friesen, Dobbs reveals how his musical journeys have not only changed the lives of his audiences but have also reshaped his own understanding of impact and service through art.

Since 2004, Dobbs has performed exclusively in locations where music is a rare gift: from prisons in the US and Uganda to refugee camps and UN schools in Palestine, from drug rehab centers in Afghanistan to centers for abused women and homes for blind children in Iraq. His performances offer a profound sense of connection and remembrance to those in the most extreme circumstances, affirming the transformative power of music.

Discover more about Dobbs and his global musical mission at BachwithVerse.org.

_____
Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
Follow us on Facebook
Hosted by Eugene Friesen