In this episode, Tom talks with Kevin Kwan Loucks, CEO of Chamber Music America (CMA), about CMA's mission to support chamber musicians, composers, managers, educators, presenters, and advocates across the US, providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities.

Tom and Kevin discussed the challenges faced by freelancers, musicians, and composers with regards to finances and long-term planning, as well as the role of presenters in the ecosystem. The conversation also highlighted the importance of diverse perspectives, the value of having the right partners, network, and support systems, and the benefits of joining CMA.

About Kevin

Representing a new generation of performing arts executives, Kevin Kwan Loucks has cultivated a distinguished leadership profile founded on artistic excellence, entrepreneurship, and innovative strategic design. Loucks was appointed CEO of Chamber Music America in 2021 after co-founding Chamber Music | OC and serving as Director of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.

About CMA

Chamber Music America (CMA) was founded more than forty years ago by a small group of musicians determined to create a more sustainable chamber music field. In the years since, the organization has grown dramatically, expanding both its offerings and its membership to be more inclusive, wide-reaching, welcoming, and equitable.

Learn more at https://chambermusicamerica.org

In this insightful conversation, Jim Frawley, Executive Development, Consultant, Coach. Author of Adapting in Motion & Host of the Jim's Take podcast delves into the profound changes AI is bringing to various sectors, with a particular focus on the studio musician. The discussion explores the human response to AI, emphasizing the need for familiarity and understanding to overcome fears associated with technological advancements.

Key Highlights:

• Navigating Discomfort: Frawley draws parallels between AI apprehension and historical technological shifts, urging listeners to embrace change with an open mind.
• AI and Creativity: Discover how AI complements, rather than replaces, human creativity, and the predicted surge in philosophical exploration prompted by these changes.
• Challenging Beliefs: The conversation addresses the evolving nature of beliefs, tackling issues of information overload and disinformation. Frawley advocates for curiosity and open-mindedness as essential tools for personal growth.
• Impact on Younger Generations: Explore the potential influence of AI on the younger demographic and how it may shape their creative processes and worldview.
• Simplicity Amid Complexity: Frawley discusses the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements and anticipates a shift towards bespoke AI solutions tailored to specific needs.

Don't miss out on this thought-provoking discussion that transcends AI's technical aspects, delving into its broader implications on our beliefs, creativity, and the essence of being human.

Happy listening!

In Let’s Talk episode # 20, Tom Rizzo talks with John Zion about supporting, empowering, and guiding great artists to help their visions thrive through authentic impactful engagement. 

John Zion is Managing Director of MKI Artists, and oversees strategic planning, artist management, and booking while supporting the careers of its prestigious roster of artists, ensembles, and composers. He is also a co-founder of OurConcerts.live, a streaming platform that technology company that provides access to live music for audiences around the world.