‘Wide-ranging and insightful’ - Guardian (pick of the week, January 2024)
A show for anyone who has ever listened to, played, improvised, written, or just enjoyed music and wanted to know more about these mysterious sounds. Are they 'auditory cheesecake' as cognitive scientist Steven Pinker claims, or actually a fundamental part of what has made us into modern humans?
With an enormous variety of guests ranging from well-known musicians, producers and industry figures through to those for whom music is central but who rarely have a voice, this show is unapologetically broad in scope.
In 'entertaining noises', Steve has musicians explain and demonstrate their instrument, giving fresh perspective on everything from the piano to modular synthesizers, via lesser-known folk instruments from around the world.
And in the flagship 'genre tombola' section, Steve is assigned a randomly-chosen genre from the list of 1334 music genres on Wikipedia, which he then goes away and researches, often talking to an expert in that music, before frequently attempting to make some music in that style... Whether he succeeds or not, there's lots of fascinating stuff to learn along the way!
As fun as it is thoughtful, this show aims to help you hear and appreciate music in new ways.
http://www.originofthepieces.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Wide-ranging and insightful’ - Guardian (pick of the week, January 2024)
A show for anyone who has ever listened to, played, improvised, written, or just enjoyed music and wanted to know more about these mysterious sounds. Are they 'auditory cheesecake' as cognitive scientist Steven Pinker claims, or actually a fundamental part of what has made us into modern humans?
With an enormous variety of guests ranging from well-known musicians, producers and industry figures through to those for whom music is central but who rarely have a voice, this show is unapologetically broad in scope.
In 'entertaining noises', Steve has musicians explain and demonstrate their instrument, giving fresh perspective on everything from the piano to modular synthesizers, via lesser-known folk instruments from around the world.
And in the flagship 'genre tombola' section, Steve is assigned a randomly-chosen genre from the list of 1334 music genres on Wikipedia, which he then goes away and researches, often talking to an expert in that music, before frequently attempting to make some music in that style... Whether he succeeds or not, there's lots of fascinating stuff to learn along the way!
As fun as it is thoughtful, this show aims to help you hear and appreciate music in new ways.
http://www.originofthepieces.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From living-room experiments to Malawian street stages — and a brief stop-off in Transylvania.
This week, Steve explores what it means to sing what you see: making music that’s spontaneous, handmade and gloriously human. There’s a Halloween detour into his live Nosferatu score, a new Clip n Mix, and a look at the brilliant Madalitso Band from Malawi — two musicians whose home-built instruments and hypnotic grooves turn simplicity into joy.
Plus: the mystery of a slightly windy theme tune proves that accidents can be the best kind of inspiration.
👇 Full timestamps + links below!
00:00 – A suspiciously familiar theme
02:30 – Living-room experiments & musical accidents
06:40 – Clip n Mix – turning everyday sounds into music
10:45 – Vampire Vamps: Nosferatu score (watch)
16:30 – Introducing Madalitso Band (Malawi)
22:00 – Homemade instruments & street recordings
32:00 – Singing what you see
44:30 – Finding beauty in simple sounds
55:20 – Wilton’s shows, Patreon & Universe of Music tour
🎧 Listen / Watch
YouTube | Apple Podcasts | More platforms
🎬 Nosferatu live score → Full video
🎛 Support / Extras → Patreon
🪐 Universe of Music Tour (with Chris Lintott)
Corsham (20 Nov) | Cambridge (27 Nov) | Shoreham-by-Sea (15 Jan)
🎟 Full info → universeofmusic.co.uk
🎟️ Live at Wilton’s Music Hall – 24 Jan 2026
👨👩👧👦 KIDS matinee (2 pm) – interactive family show
🌙 Evening show (7 pm) – live podcast with guests & musical surprises
💸 Code SPRETTY15 = £15 best available seats
💬 Got a weird sound you’d like Steve to turn into music? Email podcast@stevepretty.com or comment with #ClipnMix.
🙌 Like, subscribe & stay musically curious.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The original episode was taken down due to a copyright strike on the theme tune — even though I wrote and produced it myself. While I sort that out, you’re treated to a gloriously bad placeholder version.
Also, I’ve trimmed down the Clip n Mix segment — I was clearly having too much fun with firepits last time, and it got a bit… indulgent. This one gets to the good stuff faster.
And what is Tonás — the raw, unaccompanied flamenco style with roots in secrecy, survival, and soul?
In this episode, I launch a new segment called Clip n Mix, where I turn everyday sounds into music. This time? A campsite firepit. My son and I hit it with sticks, sample it using Ableton Note, and turn it into a crunchy little beat — which you’ll hear later in the episode.
Then we dive into one of flamenco’s most haunting styles: Tonás. My guest is the brilliant Josie Sinnadurai, a flamenco dancer based in Seville, who helps unpack the history, sound, and emotional depth of this unaccompanied vocal tradition.
👇 Full chapters and links below!
00:00 – Intro + why the theme tune sounds different
02:20 – Clip n Mix: sampling a firepit in Dorset
09:45 – What is Tonás?
10:20 – Interview with Josie Sinnadurai
34:50 – Why I didn’t make a Tonás track
35:20 – Turning firepit samples into music
49:15 – Sound, play, and curiosity
54:25 – Live shows + Patreon + sign-off
🎬 Watch the Tonás video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7vpU5zLl-A
👣 Follow Josie Sinnadurai:
Website: https://www.josielaurelflamenco.com/
Instagram: @josie_sinna
📱 Try Ableton Note (free app):
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/ableton-note/id1611814758
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ableton.note
🎧 Download the firepit samples + Ableton Note session:
https://www.patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
🎟️ Live at Wilton’s Music Hall – 24th Jan 2026
👨👩👧👦 Kids show (2pm):
https://wiltons.org.uk/whats-on/steve-pretty-and-friends-on-the-origin-of-the-pieces-kids/
🌙 Evening show (7pm):
https://wiltons.org.uk/whats-on/steve-pretty-and-friends-on-the-origin-of-the-pieces-2/
💬 Got a weird sound you’d like me to turn into music?
Drop it in the comments or email podcast@stevepretty.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What can a lump of whale earwax tell us about human history?
What does the end of the universe sound like?
And how do you play the sea like a synthesiser?
This episode of Steve Pretty On The Origin of the Pieces goes from marine mammal physiology to cosmological heat death, taking in hydrophones, cultural transmission in humpbacks, the physics of underwater sound, and an improvised trumpet elegy for the end of everything.
My guests are:
We also:
Recorded live at the brilliant First Light Festival in a sweltering tent by the sea (thanks again to them for hosting us).
🎥 The full, uncut interview with Richard Sabin — including audience Q&A and extended hydrophone demos — is available on Patreon.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week I speak to Kassandra e’Silva, a saxophonist, improviser and NHS music therapist. We caught up just before a gig at the Edinburgh Jazz Festival to talk about the power of music in care settings — from dementia wards and mental health clinics to the BBQ playlist at home.
We cover:
—
00:00 – Intro – ALSO Festival, Nosferatu live score, and a conch bath update
03:00 – Edinburgh Jazz Festival – A tribute to The Jazz Bar and Bill Kyle
08:30 – Interview with Kassandra e’Silva – Backstage at the Spiegeltent
10:00 – What music therapy is – Presence, trauma, and non-verbal expression
13:30 – Lighting up the brain – Music as reconnection
16:00 – Music at both ends of life – Parenting and dementia
20:00 – Letting go of ‘good’ music – From jazz standards to egg shakers
23:10 – Rhythm as anchor – Repetition, stability, and mental health
25:40 – Creative expression – Instruments, blocks, and tambo-responsiveness
29:40 – Teaching vs therapy – When learning becomes part of healing
31:40 – Improvisation as diagnostic mirror – Sound as resistance
34:40 – Participation matters – Why passive listening isn’t enough
36:10 – What’s the point of music? – A beautiful closing answer
—
🎶 Check out Resounding, co-written with Nicole Cassandra Smit, on Hackney Colliery Band – Collaborations: Volume Two
—
Kassandra helped develop this practical guide for carers, families and practitioners.
Includes activity ideas, playlists, and real examples from NHS care.
Note: Kassandra’s views are her own, not those of NHS Lothian.
—
🎧 Support the show:
☕ patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
#musictherapy #jazz #musicanddementia #improvisation #originofthepieces #kassandraesilva #stevepretty
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This week, Steve shares a powerful, surprising, and often jaw-dropping conversation with musician, composer and activist Jono Enser.
Jono is a gifted multi-instrumentalist and a member of Nubiyan Twist, but he’s also a disabled artist whose recent experiences as an amputee have sparked a radical rethinking of performance, access, and the body as instrument — quite literally. Together, they explore:
Plus, Steve shares a clip from his Ocean Songs sunrise performance at Benacre Broad — part of his work with the Blue Machine project, inspired by Dr. Helen Czerski’s oceanography book of the same name.
There’s a lot packed in here, and it’s one of the most wide-ranging and deeply personal episodes yet.
🎟 Jono’s band Nubiyan Twist are touring this summer – check them out.
🎶 His solo project Matters Unknown is also worth diving into.
🎤 Steve is performing live at ALSO Festival and on July 11th at the National Maritime Museum with Blue Machine – see originofthepieces.com for details.
—
🧡 Support the podcast and get exclusive content at:
patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
🎧 Listen, watch, share and review: it all helps the podcast grow.
📍 More info at originofthepieces.com
00:00 – Welcome back + Acid Brass recap
Steve introduces the episode and reflects on his recent chat with Jeremy Deller.
02:00 – Meet Jono Enser
Jono’s musical upbringing, his shift from trumpet to tuba, and the spiritual resonance of breath.
07:00 – Life as a touring amputee
The hidden and not-so-hidden barriers for disabled musicians on the road.
10:00 – Access is everywhere (or isn’t)
From venue layouts to door weights and bar heights — access means more than ramps.
14:00 – What artists and venues can actually do
Practical steps, responsibility, and why checking access before the gig matters.
18:00 – Ocean Songs interlude
Steve shares a clip from his beachside dawn performance as part of the Blue Machine project.
23:00 – A flute made from his own amputated leg
Jono’s extraordinary project connecting trauma, ancestry, and sonic experimentation.
28:00 – Resonance, ritual, and reclaiming space
Caves, Ambisonics, somatic practice and ecological listening.
32:00 – Music as breath and transformation
Why giving pain a voice — literally — matters.
36:00 – What’s the point of music?
Jono’s heartfelt answer to Steve’s recurring question.
40:00 – Wrap-up and upcoming gigs
Tour dates, ALSO Festival, and National Maritime Museum performance previews.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
❤️ Support the show on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
📬 Join the mailing list + explore the archive: https://www.originofthepieces.com
Welcome back to your favourite podcast for musically curious ears! This week, I’m talking to the brilliant Jeremy Deller, Turner Prize-winning artist and creator of the now-legendary Acid Brass project — a bold collision of working-class brass band tradition and squelchy late-80s acid house.
Join us as we trace the unexpected cultural connections between miners’ strikes, 303s, and knitting in the front row…
00:00 – Welcome and new format intro
Steve explains the new single-topic format and introduces today’s guest, Jeremy Deller.
02:00 – The story of Acid Brass
From a Turner Prize idea to a 30-year legacy: how Jeremy connected acid house and brass bands.
05:00 – Why it inspired Hackney Colliery Band
Steve reflects on how Acid Brass shaped his own journey.
07:00 – Interview Pt. 1: Backstage at rehearsal
Jeremy and Steve discuss working-class music, the politics of sound, and whether acid house is “folk.”
14:00 – What’s a 303, anyway?
Steve demos the iconic Roland TB-303 and compares it to traditional brass.
17:00 – Interview Pt. 2: Deeper dive
Jeremy reflects on his artistic intentions, early audience reactions, and the cultural fallout.
29:00 – The knitting incident
Yes, really. Knitting, brass bands and acid house. Who'd have thought?
32:00 – Musical roles and expectations
Steve discusses how Acid Brass plays with what music is for.
33:00 – The Big Question: What’s the point of music?
Jeremy shares his thoughts on connection, spirit, and why most artists are just frustrated musicians.
36:00 – Outro and rehearsal teaser
Steve wraps up and previews an exclusive clip from the Acid Brass rehearsal at EartH Hackney.
Catch Acid Brass live at EartH Hackney on 13th June 2025, followed by a late-night party with acid house pioneer A Guy Called Gerald. Limited tickets available!
🎥 Video extras & behind-the-scenes at: Patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this Eurovision-week bonus episode, Steve Pretty is joined by actor, singer, and former UK Eurovision contestant Frances Ruffelle, recorded live at Wilton’s Music Hall.
📺 Watch Frances’s Eurovision performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXtXpj2FGF8
🌐 Visit Frances Ruffelle’s website: http://www.francesruffelle.com
❤️ Support the show on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/StevePrettyOnTheOriginofthePieces
📬 Join the mailing list + explore the archive: https://www.originofthepieces.com
00:00 – Intro from Steve
Steve explains this emergency Eurovision-themed sub episode and gives updates on the podcast relaunch, including work with the Natural History Museum and upcoming Wilton’s shows.
02:30 – Why Eurovision?
Steve admits he was a bit of a Eurovision skeptic — until diving into the history while preparing for this chat with Frances.
03:45 – Meet Frances Ruffelle
Tony Award-winning actor, West End and Broadway star, and the UK’s 1994 Eurovision entry. Frances joins Steve for a live conversation and performance at Wilton’s Music Hall.
05:55 – Opening music: Mood Indigo
Live duet of Duke Ellington’s Mood Indigo.
07:00 – Am I a ‘proper’ musician?
Frances reflects on musical self-doubt, and Steve challenges the idea that you need classical training to be ‘real.’
08:40 – Storytelling through song
Frances talks about music as a storytelling tool — especially in theatre.
10:30 – Growing up with music hall
Frances shares her roots in music hall, her mum Sylvia Young’s legacy, and her first performance at age five.
14:00 – The history of Wilton’s
A deep dive into the family connection to Wilton’s Music Hall and its restoration.
17:00 – Musicals vs ‘play with music’
Frances discusses a new show she’s writing with Alan Cumming and how it blends genres.
19:00 – Eurovision 1994: Behind the Scenes
How the BBC approached her, why she initially said no, and how it all unfolded — including singing eight songs for the selection show.
21:30 – Live orchestra, no nerves
Frances recounts the Eurovision performance experience in Dublin — nerves, glam, and all.
23:00 – On music’s purpose
Steve asks: “What’s the point of music?” Frances’s answer: “Togetherness and freedom.”
24:00 – Live Eurovision performance
Frances sings her 1994 song Lonely Symphony (We Will Be Free) live — her first public performance of it in 30 years.
26:00 – Outro
Steve teases upcoming content, invites contributions for Clip n Mix, and encourages sign-ups to the newsletter and Patreon.
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Wilton's Music Hall show 30th April: use code PRETTYAPR25 for best available seats for £15
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
Description:
To mark World Poetry Day, Steve drops a surprise bonus episode featuring writer, comedian, and poet Robin Ince, recorded live at Wilton’s Music Hall.
Robin performs a series of poems—some whimsical, some urgent—including one inspired by Steve’s conch bath performance at ALSO Festival. That performance also makes an appearance here in audio form, with seashells and electronics combining into something… well, unusual.
The episode closes with reflections on music, abstraction, and the emotional power of sound.
Timecodes:
00:00 – Intro: why this bonus episode exists
01:04 – Robin Ince at Wilton’s: poems and reflections
02:06 – Poem: The Conch Bath (plus excerpt from Steve’s performance at ALSO Festival)
09:00 – Poem: Not All Men
12:08 – Poem: Creation Envy
13:47 – Poem: Let Me Celebrate You Now
15:24 – Robin and Steve on the point of music
Watch the video version (including Robin onstage and Steve in the lake at ALSO Festival):
Extras and support:
🎟 £15 tickets for Wilton’s show on 30 April with code PRETTYAPR25
🌐 Website, mailing list, Patreon and more: originofthepieces.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wilton's Music Hall show 30th April: use code PRETTYAPR25 for best available seats for £15
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
In this special 25th episode of Steve Pretty on the Origin of the Pieces, Steve takes a moment to reflect, celebrate, and introduce something new.
00:00 - Intro & Live Shows
Steve reflects on recent gigs at Wilton’s & Also Festival.
04:57 - Podcast Evolution & Short Break
Big changes ahead: new website, workflow, and video podcast format.
09:05 - The Video Podcast Upgrade
From Episode 26, watch on Spotify, YouTube, and more.
11:34 - New Segment: Clip n Mix
Listeners send in audio/video snippets, and Steve turns them into music.
Submit via podcast@stevepretty.com or social media.
14:52 - The Story Behind ‘Reawake’
How surviving the 2004 tsunami and attending his own memorial gig led to this song.
20:39 - Making Music from a Heartbeat
Steve records his daughter’s first ultrasound heartbeat and turns it into music.
26:26 - Sound Design Breakdown
Steve demos how he transforms the heartbeat into a full track using sampling & processing.
36:21 - Full Track: ‘Reawake’
Hear Hackney Colliery Band’s emotional piece, featuring his daughter’s heartbeat.
44:37 - Reflections on Survival & Creativity
How the tsunami shaped Steve’s outlook and approach to music.
49:34 - What’s Next?
Steve takes a short break before the video relaunch.
Send in your Clip n Mix submissions!
👉 Stay connected:
📧 Join the mailing list for updates, exclusive content & ticket offers: www.originofthepieces.com
💰 Support the show on Patreon: Get behind-the-scenes access and bonus goodies.
📲 Follow Steve on social media: @stevepretty on Instagram, @steveprettymusic on TikTok
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Wilton's Music Hall show 16th January: use code PRETTYJAN25 for best available seats for £15
Wilton's Music Hall show 30th April: use code PRETTYAPR25 for best available seats for £15
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
In this episode of 'Steve Pretty on the Origin of the Pieces', Steve Pretty returns after a long hiatus to share his exciting adventures, including a trip to Morocco. He discusses the erratic podcast schedule, future plans for the show, and reflects on notable past episodes, such as the interview with Finnish throat singer Pelkkä Poutanen.
The episode features an in-depth conversation with vocal coach Juliet Russell about the mechanics of the human voice, vocal techniques, and the importance of emotional connection in music. The show concludes with an update on previous guest Nathaniel Dye, who has recently been honored with an MBE for his contributions to cancer awareness and NHS campaigning.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:12 Recent Adventures and Moroccan Music
02:52 Exciting Plans for 2025
03:41 Recap of Episode 23 and Wilton's Music Hall Show
08:31 Upcoming Wilton's Show and Special Guests
11:31 Interview with Vocal Coach Juliet Russell
24:47 Unlocking Your Natural Musicality
25:59 Learning by Listening and Copying
27:33 Understanding Timbre and Instrumental Voices
29:20 Breathing Techniques for Singing and Playing Instruments
32:00 Interactive Vocal Exercises
36:56 Celebrating Musical Achievements and Personal Stories
38:47 Nathaniel Dye's Inspiring Journey and Album
41:03 Closing Remarks and Final Song
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Wilton's Music Hall show 30th November: use code STEVEPRETTYF for best available seats for £15
Wilton's Music Hall show 16th January
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
A typically eclectic episode this, with a fascinating demonstration of and discussion about throat singing from Finnish composer/performer Pelkkä Poutanen, recorded at the WOMEX world music summit in Manchester. Learn about 'asshaling' (inhaling through your bum) and zithers made out of skateboards, and then listen to Steve make the notoriously tricky skill of throat singing sound even harder than it is...
And then it's over to north London for some insight into all things HiFi - specifically beautiful vintage hifi - from legendary home audio shop Audio Gold. Steve gets a tour of the premises, including an old bank vault full from floor to ceiling with rare vintage goodies, then sits down for an extended chat with Alex Barwise from the shop. They discuss the relative merits of old vs. new technology, touch on the great analog vs. digital debate and talk about the fact that using gorgeous old sound equipment is both the most intentional and even greenest way to enjoy music. Then Steve clips some microphones to his ears and checks out the podcast theme played on a setup costing £180 and then a setup costing more than £23,000... Can you hear the difference?!
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:54 Recap of Previous Episode
01:51 Upcoming Wilton's Music Hall Show
02:09 Special Guests and Performances
06:23 Interview with Petra Podnan
11:40 Petra's Musical Journey
15:34 Throat Singing Techniques
34:34 Cultural Sensitivity in Throat Singing
37:20 The Essence of Music
37:50 Artist Promotion and Social Media
38:19 Thank You and Farewell
38:47 Exploring Audio Gold
39:50 Hi-Fi Shop Tour
42:33 The Appeal of Vintage Hi-Fi
44:00 Understanding Stereo and Mono
58:04 Analog vs Digital Debate
01:08:34 Listening Test and Conclusion
01:15:21 Final Thoughts and Announcements
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Wilton's Music Hall show 30th November: use code STEVEPRETTYF for best available seats for £15
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
In this (yet again) slightly delayed episode - this time due to computer meltdown in the middle of some major deadlines, which is FUN - Steve serves up a tasty German special, inspired by Oktoberfest and his recent visits to Munich and Berlin. He promotes an upcoming gig at Wilton’s Music Hall, including announcing incredible guests Guy Pratt, Robin Ince, and Theon Cross. The episode then goes on to explore German beer hall music, with insights from Wolfgang King in Munich, and dives into tech trance through a visit to Berlin's techno scene. The Genre Tombola section presents Steve's tech trance adaptation of a traditional drinking song, Prosit, because of course it does. Upcoming plans include episodes on avant-garde metal and the eagerly awaited flamenco genre, Tonas.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:29 Podcast Updates and Listener Feedback
02:43 Special Guests Announcement
06:07 Genre Tombola: German Special
08:44 DefibFest: A Musical Charity Event
21:36 Exploring Munich's Beer Halls
25:37 The Evolution of Music in Bavarian Beer Halls
26:18 Composing Beer Hall Music
26:40 Unique Instrument Lineup in Beer Hall Band
28:08 The Role of the Harp in Beer Hall Music
31:05 The Tradition of Stammtisch
33:10 The Prosit Song Tradition
34:39 The Purpose of Music in Beer Halls
36:24 Exploring Tech Trance
37:12 Understanding EDM and Its Elements
42:37 The Techno Experience in Berlin
46:22 Creating a Tech Trance Track
50:40 Upcoming Genres and Closing Remarks
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
Wilton's Music Hall show 30th November: use code STEVEPRETTYF for best available seats for £15
Hackney Colliery Band Earth show 8th October: use code ORIGIN! for £5 off
In this episode, Steve chats about recent adventures and musical projects, including trips to Berlin, Portugal, and Norway. He reflects on a previous episode about Arctic music, featuring unique artists and bands. Steve jokes about the challenge of keeping up with podcast episodes due to his busy schedule. He introduces his band, Hackney Colliery Band, and their upcoming album, 'Collaborations Volume Two,' showcasing a variety of musical styles and guests. The episode includes a live performance and an interview with Nawar Alnaddaf, a Syrian refugee musician, about her journey and traditional instruments, and a couple of exclusive tracks from Hackney Colliery Band. Also quite a lot of Steve apologising.
00:00 Welcome
00:43 Apologies for the Delay
01:54 Recap of the Last Episode
03:36 Upcoming Show Highlights
04:15 Hackney Colliery Band's New Album
06:16 Live Interview at Wilton's Music Hall
11:27 The History and Inspiration Behind Hackney Colliery Band
28:38 Interview with Syrian Musician Nawar Alnaddaf
32:36 Exploring Quarter Tones on the Oud
34:47 The Unique Shape and Strings of the Oud
35:38 Tuning the Oud and Demonstration
40:23 Introduction to the Ney
42:29 Playing Techniques and History of the Ney
48:10 The Spiritual and Social Importance of Music
50:23 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events
52:51 Musical Outro: Sure Feels Good
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mailing list: sign up for special offers, news and more
Patreon: sign up for FREE for all manner of bonus goodies and to be part of a growing musically-curious community
Wilton's Music Hall show: use code STEVEPRETTYF for best available seats for £15
In this arctic special, Steve heads to northern Norway to meet a whole variety of fascinating musical characters.
First up, it's the turn of the Bitch Big Boobies Bang Band from Hemnesberget, who are exactly as you'd expect from a band with such an unexpected name...
Bitchy Big Boobies Bang Band Youtube
Bitchy Big Boobies Bang Band Facebook
Bitchy Big Boobies Bang Band Instagram
Then Steve chats to the equally unexpectedly-named Igor Kill, a touring musician with decades of experience, and one of the only makers of the rare 8 string ukulele outside of Honolulu.
Some of Igor Kill's beautiful handmade instruments
A bit of Igor Kill's discography
And then it's time to head up to the far north east of Norway and the brilliant Varangerfestival. After their set, Steve has a fascinating conversation with a group of indigenous Sami musicians, exploring the role of music in a society built around reindeer herding, how central the vocal style of 'joiking' is to Sami culture, and the unexpected and beautiful links between this arctic vocal style and drum music from east and west Africa.
AfroJoik (incomplete list, sorry!):
John André Eira, Viktor Wilhelmsen and Ola Brandsnes Vårtun
Afro-Joik's Varangerfestival listing
As always, please spread the word, rate and review the show. All manner of diverse and interesting musically-curious stuff coming up, so let's get some new ears on board!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Introduction (0:00:07 - 0:14:55):
Steve kicks off the episode with updates on his live shows, including upcoming recordings at the Into the Wild Festival and a special event at Wilton's Music Hall on 30th November. He encourages listeners to join his Patreon for discounted tickets and exclusive offers.
Steve then recaps highlights from episode 18 before diving into an engaging interview with Ola Onabulé.
Exploring Genre Flexibility (0:14:55 - 0:18:40):
Steve reflects on the journey of embracing multiple genres in music. He emphasises the importance of maintaining authenticity and the unique human touch that differentiates their music from AI-generated content. The discussion includes the creative process behind their track "Hacked Soul," highlighting its unpredictable evolution and polyrhythmic elements - and you can listen to the entire song at the end of the episode.
Musical Influence of Nigerian Heritage (0:18:40 - 0:23:44):
Steve and Ola discuss the deep sense of rhythm ingrained from growing up in Nigeria and how these African rhythms translate into genres like hip hop, rock, and blues.
Journey of a Soul Singer (0:23:44 - 0:39:11):
Ola shares his musical journey, starting with the impact of Stevie Wonder's album "Songs in the Key of Life" on his upbringing. He recounts a chance encounter that led him from law school to becoming a renowned singer. Ola then demonstrates his impressive baritone-to-tenor range.
Mexican Corrido (0:39:11 - 0:49:21):
Steve explores the genre of corrido, a traditional Mexican music style. He discusses the evolution of corridos from historical narratives to modern themes tied to narco culture. Insights from an interview with Mexican trumpeter Alex Gonzalez reveal the genre's progression and the blending of traditional and modern elements in corridos tumbados.
The Political Impact of Corridos (0:49:21 - 0:57:35):
They delve into the political undertones of corridos and their influence on Mexican culture. Steve discusses different types of corridos, their coded messages, and his experience attempting to create music in the corrido style. The segment concludes with a reflection on the broader purpose of music in conveying positive messages to future generations.
Genre Exploration (0:57:35 - 1:07:04):
Steve continues to explore corrido music, sharing his journey into understanding the genre and its connections to outlaw narco culture. Inspired by, and featuring Alex, Steve creates his own piece of corrido music. The episode finishes by choosing the next genre for the genre tombola.
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In this episode of "Steve Pretty on the Origin of the Pieces," host Steve Pretty chats with Jeff Miller, a specialist in early brass instruments. They explore the origins and evolution of low brass instruments, particularly the serpent, and its historical significance. The discussion covers the cultural and physical aspects of music, the unique characteristics of various instruments, and the universal nature of musical languages. Steve also recaps his recent experiences at the First Light Festival in Lowestoft. The episode rounds off with an interview with and performance from the Lowestoft Longshoremen, a sea shanty choir, highlighting the cultural importance of their music.
Recap of Last Episode (00:00:07)
Steve summarizes the previous episode, including a session with a BBC engineer, discussion on Debussy and Arabesque music, and experiences at the First Light Festival in Lowestoft.
First Light Festival in Lowestoft (00:02:22)
Steve shares his experiences at the First Light Festival, including performances, interactions, and the festival's significance.
Performances at First Light Festival (00:03:34)
Steve details his performances at the festival, including a parade, concerts, and a dawn set on the beach.
Emotional Experience at Dawn Set (00:05:35)
Steve recounts the emotional impact of playing shells at dawn.
Introduction to Jeff Miller (00:08:41)
Steve introduces Jeff Miller, a multi-instrumentalist and low brass specialist, and their musical collaborations.
Evolution of Low Brass Instruments (00:09:55)
Jeff discusses the origins and evolution of low brass instruments and cultural influences on music.
Cultural Perspectives on Music (00:14:49)
Jeff and Steve explore cultural differences in musical harmony and its impact on music experience.
Classification of Musical Instruments (00:19:21)
Jeff explains the classification of musical instruments and his experience with various brass and woodwind instruments.
The origin of brass instruments (00:20:34)
Discussion on the historical evolution of brass instruments from animal horns to the cornet.
Design and structure of the serpent (00:23:31)
Description of the serpent, its components, and design.
Challenges of playing the serpent (00:27:07)
Explanation of the difficulties in playing the serpent.
Range and performance of the serpent (00:33:19)
Demonstration of the serpent's range and its use in orchestral performances.
Musical examples and timbre of the serpent (00:36:16)
Performance of a cello piece on the serpent and discussion of its unique timbre.
Challenges of playing the serpent (00:38:44)
Exploration of the difficulties in playing the serpent.
Serpent musical performance (00:39:39)
Musical performance on the serpent.
Challenges of playing traditional brass instruments (00:40:49)
Frustrations faced by modern brass players with traditional instruments.
Exploring the nature of sound through synths (00:42:28)
Jeff's journey into sound manipulation through electronic instruments.
Passing down heritage through sea shanties (00:58:06)
The importance of passing down heritage through sea shanties.
Singing Shanties (00:58:59)
Discussion on the tradition and history of singing shanties.
Diversity of Shanties (01:00:12)
Exploration of the diverse origins of shanties and their global influence.
Performance and Audience Interaction (01:01:51)
Reflection on shanty performances and audience engagement.
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Episode Summary
In this episode, Steve Pretty embarks on a sonic journey with Martin Appleby, a seasoned sound engineer with over nearly four decades of experience at BBC's Maida Vale studios. They delve into Martin's illustrious career, exploring his role in capturing live music for prestigious BBC programs and his the challenges and opportunities of live recording. The episode further explores the philosophical dimensions of recording live ensembles and the unique challenges of live studio recording.
Key Topics Discussed
Introduction to Martin Appleby
- Overview of Martin's 40-year career at the BBC.
- Martin's background as a musician and sound engineer.
- His studies on the Appalachian dulcimer and its connections to West African music traditions.
- The rich history and significance of Maida Vale studios.
Live Studio Recording
- The art and pressure of recording live music in a studio setting.
- The benefits of musicians performing together in the same room without headphones.
- Highlighting a memorable session with singer Jamie Cullum.
- The role of sound engineers in capturing authentic, dynamic performances.
Technical Aspects of Recording
- Use of omni and stereo cardioid microphones.
- Shaping the sound with artistic precision, akin to photography.
- The importance of perspective in music recording.
Exploration of Arabesque Music and Debussy
- The influence of Islamic art on Debussy's compositions.
- Debussy's revolutionary approach to music, seeking to establish a distinct French identity.
- Insights from pianist Benjamin Steinhardt on Debussy's inspirations.
Debussy's Musical Legacy
- Debussy's use of older modes and Eastern pentatonic scales.
- The impact of his relationship with his patron Nadja and admiration for Chopin.
- Steve's own attempts at composing in Debussy's style and its analysis.
Evolving Music Industry
- Discussion on AI-generated music and its potential limitations.
- Updates on the music industry landscape, including genre explorations and the transformation of the Jazz Bar in Edinburgh into a community-owned arts hub.
- The closure of the Towersley Festival and the challenges faced by live music events today.
Notable Quotes
- "Capturing the performance is the one thing you really can't fake." - Martin Appleby
- "The great thing we can do that nobody else can is we've got the space. The musicians can all come in, be in one place, do their thing, go away, and we just mix it." - Martin Appleby
Additional Information
- **Patreon:** Listeners can support the show and access exclusive content on Steve Pretty's Patreon page.
- **Previous Episode:** Exploration of the double bass with Charlie Pine.
Next Episode Teasers
- Upcoming explorations of genres like Tona and Corrido.
- Further discussions on the evolving landscape of the music industry.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in for a deep dive into the world of sound engineering, the legacy of Debussy, and the vibrant history of Maida Vale studios.
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Steve invites jazz double bassist/singer Charlie Pyne to the studio for a fascinating chat about all things bass. As well as a tour of her beautiful, historic instrument (affectionately named Claude), Charlie talks about the role of the bass in jazz and swing, and we hear some incredibly soulful playing. Charlie is so warm and joyful, and this really
comes across in her music, which she gives us a live snippet of here, before an impromptu jam
with Steve and trombonist/occasional podcast assistant Joel Knee.
Before this deep dive (sorry…), we hear an excerpt of the live podcast recording at Wilton’s Music Hall from earlier in the year. Astronomer Chris Lintott introduces us to a planetary system many light years away, and Steve explains how this distant star system can teach us about music, and vice versa, with the help of Filament Choir, Valeria Clarke and Hackney Colliery Band’s rhythm section.
Oh, and stay right to the end for a very special offer…
Sign up for the Patreon, mailing list and everything else here: http://www.originofthepieces.com
Charlie Pyne: https://charliepyne.co.uk/
First Light Festival: https://firstlightlowestoft.com/
Chris Lintott: https://www.physics.ox.ac.uk/our-people/lintott and his brilliant podcast that I forgot to mention in the show (sorry Chris!): https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dog-stars
Valeria Clarke: https://www.valeriaclarke.com/
Hackney Colliery Band: http://www.hackneycollieryband.co.uk
Also Festival: https://www.also-festival.com/
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In a specially-extended episode, Steve has a detailed conversation with some of the creative team behind the smash hit stage version of the Oscar-winning Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away. Director John Caird, co-adaptor Maoko Imai and Musical Supervisor/Orchestrator Brad Haak tell Steve how the show came to be, and give some absolutely fascinating insights into composer Joe Hisaichi's work, including Brad demonstrating some beautiful examples on John and Maoko's gorgeous grand piano.
But first, Steve chats with Jay Chakravorty, composer, producer and promoter of brilliant London crossover classical music night Counter Chamber. Jay demonstrates his incredible modular synthesiser setup, and he and Steve discuss how expressive and emotional these wobbly, warbly voltage controllers can be, before Jay jams on his amazing machines.
And before that, Steve shares his mild despair at the state of the music industry at the moment, prompted both by off-mic chats with his guests and musician colleagues, and also by a recent article in the Guardian about the plight of musicians in 2024.
Sign up for the Patreon, mailing list and everything else here: http://www.originofthepieces.com
Guardian article: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/apr/25/shocking-truth-money-bands-make-on-tour-taylor-swift
Jay Chakravorty: https://jaychakravorty.com/
Spirited Away: https://www.spiritedawayuk.com/
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In another varied episode, Steve talks to soul singer Eliza about revealing her pregnancy live on stage, cellist Verity Simmons demonstrates her beautiful cello (and explains how it's partly made from a German U boat), and then Steve breaks down the fascinating genre of Igbo Rap in the Genre Tombola, including an in-depth transcription of some of the brilliantly complex rhythms.
Sign up for the Patreon, mailing list and everything else here: http://www.originofthepieces.com
Eliza's website: https://www.elizalovechild.com/
Eliza's instagram, including the pregnancy reveal: https://www.instagram.com/elizalovechild/
Verity Simmons: https://maslink.co.uk/client-directory?client=SIMMV1&
Three in a Bar podcast: https://www.threeinabar.com/
Razz Mataz (Episode 8) by Chucky P, Khenyzee, Space, Chumzy (Igbo Rap track): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXWhvYDftMo
Additional Igbo Rap tracks to check out:
https://youtu.be/LXWhvYDftMo?si=7LpEr-v4TKa5oZjR
https://youtu.be/AckJs1noxMw?si=E9o41r7dSpxEjfO8
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLup2K0PBFlK1tY45LtqRKnfvOfY6scdqp&si=g705zAhYFbrZX4fw
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