Welcome!
Thank you for stopping by! The first iteration of this site was Stark Raving Cello: a Blogger site where I took turns opining, explaining, and ranting about whatever came into my 28-year-old brain. The name of the blog was accurate!…
a pean to the humble humidifer
Last year, in the dead of winter, Henri had multiple seams open up, requiring a trip to the luthier and a re-evaluation of my humidification infrastructure. You see, Henri actually sounds better and is much easier to play in low…
Anything but Crumb-y
The end of the year always makes my fingers itch for something new, or something old to make new again. A few years ago, I was inspired by Josh Roman’s Instagram post where he was being adjusted by an Alexander…
December playlist
Hello friends: just popping in to say hello and drop off a chilled out playlist for the holiday season. If you’d like something less contemporary, here’s the one from last year. I’ve just started reading Katherine May’s book Wintering, and…
November 2025 playlist: Anastasia Kobekina
The next series of playlists will highlight musicians I feel are doing interesting and important things, so each one will feature one or two artists exclusively. This month is all about Anastasia Kobekina, one of my favorite cellists ever. She…
Oof, guys…and October playlist(s)
This year is too much, my friends. I was really making strides—multiple books in progress, regular posting here, applying to doctoral programs, a few speaking engagements and workshops, and renewed inspiration to write and produce music. Starting with my mother’s…
September 2025 playlist
Here’s hoping we are not in “false fall” because I am ready for sweater weather and cozy times. Lots going on here; back soon! xo, em
August 2025 playlist
A little late, after some pretty dramatic travel delays. Note to self: maybe driving 16 hours straight twice in a week is…dumb?
COMING fall 2025: Wednesday-themed intro to cello intensive
Already know you’re interested? Go to the bottom of the post and let me know! It’s been so much fun to see interest in the cello and playing pop/contemporary styles since Netflix’s Wednesday crashed into our hearts and minds in…