His weak spot? Ironing. His zone of genius? Motivating people and helping them believe in themselves.
Giuliano Sommerhalder’s CV is extraordinary: principal positions in some of Europe’s leading orchestras, a distinguished solo career, exceptional chamber music collaborations, and teaching roles at three major universities.
In this episode, we explore the full spectrum of excellence required to succeed across a wide range of musical contexts. What does Giuliano see as the difference between performing a solo within an orchestra and being the soloist in a concerto? How does he guide students to mentally approach auditions? And how does he deal with the pressure when a single mistake feels catastrophic?
Giuliano takes us on an honest and inspiring journey through his multifaceted career and life. He shares insights into his teaching philosophy, the human understanding necessary to communicate with clarity and kindness in an orchestral setting and the mindset needed to navigate the challenges of a professional musician’s life—all delivered with his characteristic warmth and humor. Packed with insider insights from the world of trumpet playing, this conversation is a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a top musician’s approach to everyday exceptional challenges.
More from Giuliano:
Instagram: @giulianotrumpet
Would you like to hear more?
Website: www.penthesileaonair.com
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this episode, we step again into a world where music, mental health, and medicine intersect – with special guest Heidi Brandi, musician, therapist, and founder of the Center for Professional Musicians in Hamburg. Heidi shares what inspired her to found the center in 2013, alongside Professors Hugo Schmale and Christian Kunert. Her main motivation was to create a space dedicated to the physical and psychological well-being of musicians – a crucial yet often-neglected aspect of professional artistic life, and one we aim to highlight regularly in this podcast.
With her background in piano and organ and extensive experience supporting classical and jazz musicians, Heidi discusses the ongoing challenges musicians face, such as performance anxiety, physical strain, and the unspoken taboos around mental health in the industry.
We explore the parallels she draws between performance music and competitive sports – including the pressure, recovery cycles, and institutional expectations. Heidi also reflects on whether musicians can regulate their own balance between productivity and rest – or whether larger structural changes in orchestras and conservatories are necessary.
Delving into her research on artistic identity, we unpack what this term truly means: its components, how it’s formed, and how it can be shaped, or even distorted, by external pressures, career expectations, and personal history.
The conversation also covers the role of artistic identity in auditions, how it can be used strategically, and whether adapting to specific orchestra cultures is a strength or a risk. Heidi explains how she works with young musicians and orchestral academies to prepare for these defining career moments – not just technically, but psychologically and emotionally.
Would you like to hear more?
Website: www.penthesileaonair.com
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
Tara Mohr’s book Playing Big deeply moved me – and not just me. Many of my students have started to realize how personal growth and musical expression are closely connected through her work.
In this conversation, we talk about inner mentors, critical voices, self-doubt, courage, and the search for your true calling – and why women in classical music often need a different approach to visibility.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re truly “good enough,” this episode might shift something inside you.More from Tara:Book: Playing Big: For Women Who Want to Speak Up, Stand Out and LeadWebsite: www.taramohr.comInstagram: @tarasophiamohrInner Mentor Visualization: www.taramohr.com/book/inner-mentor-signup/
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
Have you ever wondered what really happens after winning an orchestra audition?
In this episode, I talk to Gudrun Hinze about the often overlooked challenges of the trial period and how to navigate this crucial phase with confidence and heart. Gudrun shares her personal journey and the lessons she learned about resilience, musical identity, and staying connected to your love for music. If you’re ready to grow beyond your instrument, this conversation is for you.
More from Gudrun:
Instagram: @hinzegudrun
Website: www.gudrunhinze.de
YouTube: @HinzePiccolo
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
How can we stay creative and relaxed during auditions instead of falling into tension and perfectionism?
In this episode, I talk to Dr. Eckart Altenmüller about how our brain works when we make music – and what it takes to stay healthy, motivated, and musically fulfilled in the long run. We explore topics like neuroplasticity, mental preparation, and how to handle pressure in a sustainable way. If you're ready to deepen your playing while staying connected to yourself, this conversation is for you.
More from Dr. Eckart Altenmüller:
Books: https://amzn.to/41TDbTL
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
Have you ever achieved something you worked for, only to realize it wasn’t what you expected?
In this episode, I talk to career strategist Angela Beeching about the myths of success in the music industry and what really matters when building a fulfilling career. We dive into resilience, unexpected career shifts, and how to navigate the moments when things don’t go as planned. If you're looking for inspiration and practical insights on shaping your own musical path, this episode is for you.
More from Angela:
Website: https://angelabeeching.com
Instagram:@angelabeeching
Book: Beyond Talent: Creating a Successful Career in Music
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
How do you handle stage fright? Is it really possible to step on stage with ease, without being consumed by perfectionism and self-doubt?
In this episode, I talk to Dr. Michael Bohne, one of Germany’s leading performance coaches, about building mental strength, boosting self-worth, and discovering unexpected ways to feel freer on stage. Dr. Bohne shares fascinating insights into his PEP technique and stories that will make you reflect and smile – an inspiring episode for anyone ready to conquer their stage fright once and for all!
More from Dr. Bohne:
Website: www.dr-michael-bohne.de
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this episode, I have the privilege of talking to the amazing Alain Altinoglu, one of the most celebrated conductors of our time.
We explore how he balances a demanding career with personal well-being, the art of communicating with orchestras, and the surprising lessons he learns along the way. Alain shares inspiring and eye-opening insights into the world of classical music. Join me for a conversation full of wisdom, humor, and a rare behind-the-scenes look at a conductor's life.
More from Alain:
Website: www.alainaltinoglu.com/
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this episode of "Penthesilea On Air," I sit down with Dr. Veronika Jana Lubert to explore the crucial role of mental training for musicians.
Discover how psychological techniques can help overcome performance anxiety and enhance your musical expression. Veronika shares valuable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full musical potential. We discuss how targeted mental training can not only improve your performances but also help you lead a balanced and fulfilling life as a musician. Get inspired and discover new ways to shine both on stage and in everyday life!
More from Veronika:
Website: https://www.veronikajanalubert.com
LinkedIn: Dr. Veronika Jana Lubert
Instagram: @veronikajanalubert
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this podcast episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Elizabeth Rowe, a talented flutist who made the bold decision to leave her role as principal flutist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra after two decades.
Elizabeth shares with us her deep-seated reasons for pursuing a path filled with new meanings outside the world of classical performance. We dive into the emotional and practical aspects of her final season, discussing the challenges she faced and the insights she gathered during this significant transition. Our conversation offers a genuine look into the personal growth and revelations experienced when one embarks on such a transformative life journey.
More from Elizabeth:
- Website: https://iamelizabethrowe.com
- Instagram: @iamelizabethrowe
- LinkedIn: @elizabeth-rowe
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In today's episode of the "Penthesilea On Air"-Podcast, I engage in a detailed conversation with Roman Rindberger.
Roman, a valued head coach for trumpet students at our Penthesilea Academy, is also a skilled instructor of the transformative Wim Hof method. Throughout our dialogue, he sheds light on how this method is particularly beneficial for musicians, focusing on its powerful combination of breathing techniques and cold exposure exercises. Roman explains how these strategies enhance our ability to handle stress, boost physical fitness, and maintain focus, which are crucial for both onstage performances and everyday wellness.
Additionally, he shares his personal journey and insights into the holistic approach required for optimal musical performance and personal development, emphasizing the need for musicians to adopt comprehensive wellness practices.
More from Roman:
- Instagram: @roman_rindberger
- Facebook: roman.rindberger
- Wim Hof Method: www.wimhofmethod.com/instructors/romanrindberger
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this enlightening episode, I am joined by Dr. Katja Schlemitz, a renowned Vienna-based doctor with a passion for holistic health care for musicians. Together, we dive deep into pressing health issues musicians often face, such as the battle against sleep disorders and the toll of stress on the immune system. Dr. Katya shares her wealth of knowledge on the transformative impact of nutrition and exercise on a musician's performance, spotlighting the critical role of establishing daily routines and embracing personalized medicine for peak health.
We both touch on sensitive topics like mental health in the music industry, the controversial use of beta-blockers for performance anxiety, and strategies for musicians to sustain a balanced, healthy lifestyle amid their demanding careers. Dr. Schlemitz strongly recommends building a robust support system, including health coaching and preventive care, to empower musicians to reach their highest potential in both performance and wellbeing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the music profession looking to harmonize their health with their art.
More from Dr. Schlemitz:
- Website: https://www.regulationstherapien.at/
- Mail: office@regulationstherapien.at
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
In this engaging first podcast episode, I, Karin Bonelli, flutist with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and founder of Penthesilea Academy, delve into a meaningful conversation with Barry Green, renowned for his time with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and his impactful book, "The Inner Game of Music." Our discussion spans the crucial role of mindset in enhancing stage presence, the significant influence of Barry's work on music education, and what truly distinguishes unforgettable performances. Barry's approach, which harmonizes the mind, body, and artistry, offers fresh insights into perceiving music not just as a career but as a life philosophy. This episode is a rich source of inspiration for musicians aiming to deepen their expressive skills and for anyone interested in the profound connection between our inner selves and musical expression. Join us as we explore the timeless value of music as a pathway to personal growth and artistic fulfillment.
More from Barry Green:
- Website: innergameofmusic.com/
- Mail: barry@innergameandmusic.com
- Book: The Inner Game of Music
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
Welcome to Penthesilea On Air, the podcast for classical musicians seeking to enhance their artistry, performance, and well-being.
I'm Karin Bonelli, and I'm here to share the essence of our journey together through Penthesilea Academy, and this podcast. My vision is to create a space for passionate musicians who are eager to grow beyond the conventional boundaries of classical music education. It's about more than just technique; it's about finding your unique voice and place in the challenging world of music.
Let's make extraordinary music together.
Would you like to hear more?
Website: penthesilea.academy
Instagram: @karintbonelli @penthesilea.academy
produced by Eli Cardich and podcastly
