top of page
Best Practice book cover
Best Practice: Inspiration and Ideas for Traditional Musicians

Resources
Video, Blog Posts, Articles

Podcast Show Artwork 2000 x 2000.jpg

Podcast
Best Practice for Musicians

Interviews, Inspiration and Ideas for Musicians:
Host Judy Minot interviews musicians and thought leaders about how to improve - as a musician and in other areas of life as well.

Episodes

E3 Thumbnail-s.jpg

Shannon Heaton: Tucking into the Pulse

Irish flute player and singer Shannon Heaton on breathing, phrasing, musical expression, overcoming challenges, fitting in to Irish traditional music sessions, and more.


Memorable Quotes:

"If you're really not fluent with a language, you don't just jump in on the high level conversation. But just to say, ‘Hi, how are you?' You just need a couple of words just to sit down and play a few tunes."

 

"Nobody's going to say, 'Oh, my gosh, she's like, too rhythmic!' It's never going to happen. 'Her rhythm is too clean. Her rhythm is too, too lovely!’" 

Release Date: June 15, 2026, 47:27

Dallas Vietty: Developing Musical Fluency

Jazz accordionist and teacher Dallas Vietty on creativity, improvisation and inspiration.
 

Memorable Quotes:

"Music is a language. But it's not one language. It's a whole bunch of different languages. The idea is to treat it as a language so that when we are spoken to by another musician, we can understand what they said to us.”

"For every musician, some sort of inventiveness or creativity with what you're given is possible, and fun! And should be part of your daily playing.”

May 15, 2026, 39:30

Martin Hayes: Playing Music from the Heart

Renowned Irish fiddler Martin Hayes shares his deep understanding of musical expression, personal style, and creating a beautiful sound in this interview with author Judy Minot. Martin offers practical tips on practicing, playing with feeling, balancing tradition with innovation in Irish music and conquering stage fright.

April 15, 2026   58:19   

Best Practice for Musicians: Trailer

A new monthly video podcast for musicians, starting April 15, featuring interviews with great musicians and thought leaders about how to be a better musician. The first series includes interviews with great roots and trad musicians including Martin Hayes, Liz Knowles, Natalie Haas, Dallas Vietty, Shannon Heaton. Available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube.

 

Subscribe now - don't miss a single episode!

March 15, 2026   :55

bottom of page