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

07/20/24 • 48 min

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.

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Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
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Hosted by Eugene Friesen

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

Previous Episode

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

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.

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Hosted by Eugene Friesen

Next Episode

Strings of Change: John Mark Rozendaal’s Cello-Driven Activism

John Mark Rozendaal is a renowned musician and fervent climate justice activist. Celebrated for his mastery of Baroque and Renaissance music, John Mark has shifted his focus towards a critical and urgent mission—saving our dying planet. John Mark’s unique protest, playing Bach in front of Citibank to spotlight their substantial investments in fossil fuels, not only led to his arrest but also spotlighted the powerful role that music and musicians can play in societal change.

In this conversation with Eugene Friesen, John Mark shares his transition from performing in esteemed early music ensembles and teaching at prestigious institutions to taking bold actions with Extinction Rebellion and Climate Defiance. Eugene and John Mark discuss the motivations behind this dramatic career shift, the challenges of overcoming feelings of helplessness against climate threats, and how we can bind together to make impactful statements on global issues.

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Read more on the Beyond Mastery website
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Hosted by Eugene Friesen