SoundBits podcast

Poetry in Music

Episode Summary

Host Kim welcomes the talented and multifaceted guest, Sherry Grant. Sherry, a Taiwan-born concert pianist, cellist, poet, and festival organizer residing in New Zealand, shares her journey from a classical music upbringing to her recent exploration of solo piano and worldwide concert performances. Sherry reflects on her childhood, shaped by the high expectations of Asian parents, and how she was fortunate to receive special music training. Despite initially feeling less skilled, Sherry's passion for music grew, eventually leading her to become a concert pianist. She discusses her transition to solo piano and the joy of playing concerts globally. The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Sherry reveals her love for writing, especially poetry. She shares her experience of collaborating with her youngest child on a whimsical book called "bat girl," highlighting the joy of creating with family. The discussion touches on the significance of poetry in preserving memories and the creative process of writing with loved ones. The episode also features a spontaneous reading of Sherry's poem, rengay poem, written with American haiku poet John Thompson, which will be appearing in issue three of raining rengay Journal in 2024. Sherry showcases her unique style in crafting verses. The host, Kim, reciprocates by sharing one of her poems, creating a harmonious exchange of creative expression. The episode concludes with Kim expressing gratitude to Sherry for sharing her talents and perspectives. As sound bits, the podcast offers listeners glimpses into the lives and creative processes of its guests, aiming to shift perspectives and provide valuable insights.

Episode Notes

Introduction:

• Host Kim welcomes listeners to another episode of "Welcome to Soundbits™ Podcast."
• Teases an exciting guest, Sherry Grant, a Taiwan-born concert pianist, chalice poet, and festival organizer living in New Zealand.

Meet Sherry Grant:

• Sherry introduces herself, detailing her classical music upbringing and recent ventures into solo piano performances worldwide.
• Reflects on the expectations placed on Asian children by their parents and how her journey in music evolved.

Creative Exploration:

• Sherry shares her newfound passion for writing, especially poetry, and discusses her transition from classical music to solo piano.
• Highlights the significance of creative expression and reflects on her collaborative book project, "Bat Girl," with her youngest child.

Family Traditions:

• The discussion delves into the Grant family's creative endeavors and the unintentional formation of a musical tradition in the house.
• Sherry recounts memories of her father coaching bands at school, despite not being a musician himself.

Spontaneous Poetry Reading:

• Sherry shares a unique form of poetry, "D&I and rengay," and provides insights into its structure and collaborative nature.
• Host Kim reciprocates by reading one of her own poems, creating a harmonious exchange of creative expression.

Closing Thoughts:

• Kim expresses gratitude to Sherry for sharing her talents and unique perspectives.
• Emphasizes the podcast's aim to provide listeners with Soundbits™ that may shift their perspectives and offer valuable insights.

Conclusion:

• The episode concludes with a reminder that "Welcome to Soundbits™ Podcast" provides glimpses into the lives and creative processes of its guests, leaving listeners with little bits of information to ponder.

Outro:

• Kim bids farewell to the audience, teasing the next episode and encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more insightful conversations.

Music Credits:

• Acknowledgment of any music or sound effects used in the episode.

Social Media and Contact Information:

• Encourage listeners to follow the podcast on social media, share their thoughts, and reach out with suggestions for future episodes.

Promotions:

• Promotions for upcoming events, projects, or partnerships related to the podcast or its guests.

Disclaimer:

• Any necessary disclaimers related to the content discussed in the episode.