Behind the Masterpiece on Florida’s Cultural Coast

Arts Advocates in Action: Carol Darling on Art, Community & Legacy

Discover how Arts Advocates is preserving Sarasota’s artistic legacy and shaping its future in this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Host Jeffery Kin sits down with Carol Darling to explore the organization’s impact on emerging artists, the rich history of Sarasota’s cultural scene, and the importance of fostering new generations of creatives. From supporting young talent to uncovering the stories of influential artists, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the arts. Tune in to learn how you can get involved and help keep Sarasota’s artistic spirit alive!
Arts Advocates Website:https://www.artsadvocates.org/
 
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Carol Darling, Vice President of the Board of Arts Advocates
(02:00) What is Arts Advocates?
(04:05) History of Arts Advocates and art in Sarasota
(06:20) Arts Advocates Collection - Including Florida Highwaymen pieces
(11:30) Arts Advocates Programs 
(15:30) Scholarship program
(16:40) Success stories from scholarships
(18:40) How Carol fell in love with art
(24:00) How to become active with Arts Advocates
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com
 

Empowering Young Performers: A Look Inside Rise Above

Discover how Rise Above is transforming young lives through theater in this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Host Brian Hersh chats with Jacob, Founder & Director and Tayla, Performer, about the impact of this nonprofit, which offers free acting lessons and stage opportunities to students, fostering confidence, public speaking skills, and lifelong friendships. Hear Tayla’s journey to center stage and get the inside scoop on The Wizard of Oz, opening May 7 in Sarasota. Don’t miss this uplifting conversation about the power of the performing arts—listen now!
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Jacob Ruscoe, Founder & Director of Rise Above, and Tayla Wright, Performer
(01:40) How does Rise Above differ from a school production?
(03:30) What is the process of being part of Rise Above?
(05:35) How do you prepare the students?
(07:05) How do you choose the season?
(09:55) Why should people see a show at Rise Above?
(12:50) How does Rise Above help their students?
(16:00) What is coming up for Rise Above?
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Creativity, Community, and Career: A Conversation with Jenny Alday Townsend

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffrey Kin sits down with Jenny Alday Townsend, Founder and CEO of Music Compound, for an inspiring conversation about ambition, authenticity, and making an impact in the arts. Jenny shares her journey, emphasizing the limitless possibilities for those who follow their passion—whether it’s becoming a CEO, a podcast host, an author, or a business owner. She reflects on the importance of staying true to yourself while building a meaningful career and how artists play a vital role in shaping vibrant communities.
As the discussion unfolds, Jeffrey and Jenny explore the often-overlooked contributions of creatives and the value they bring to Sarasota and beyond. They celebrate the power of storytelling, mentorship, and the arts as a driving force for connection and change. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated to carve your own path. 
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Jenny Alday Townsend, Founder and CEO of Music Compound
(02:05) How did the Music Compound start?
(07:10) The growth of Music Compound 
(08:30) How do people get involved with Music Compound?
(12:20) Working with adults
(18:00) The power of collaboration
(20:30) 5th generation Sarasota native
(23:25) Writing a book
(25:20) Toughest part of the job
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Inside Sarasota Opera: Rafael Davila on Bringing Tragic Roles to Life

Step into the world of high drama and powerful music with tenor Rafael Davila as he takes us behind the scenes of Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci at the Sarasota Opera. In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, Rafael shares the emotional depth of these tragic operas, the intense physical and vocal preparation required, and how verismo opera connects with real-life experiences. Discover the rituals that keep his voice in peak form, the history behind these iconic works, and why live opera remains an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this captivating conversation—listen now!
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Rafael Davila, Tenor, Sarasota Opera
(01:20) What drew you to Opera?
(04:50) What is the training for Opera?
(09:00) Performing in different languages
(14:10) Two roles at Sarasota Opera - Cavalleria Rusticana & Pagliacci
(18:30) How do you prepare for your characters?
(22:10) Pre-performance ritual
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Inside La Musica Festival: Wu Han’s Journey Through Sound

Step inside the world of world-renowned pianist and artistic director Wu Han as she brings the La Musica Festival to life in this captivating episode of Behind the Masterpiece. From the drama and passion of Faure’s Piano Quartet in C minor to her own inspiring journey from an unexpected introduction to music to an international career, Wu Han shares stories of artistry, discipline, and the emotional power of classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to chamber music, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how great performances are crafted. Listen now and experience the magic of La Musica!
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Wu Han, Artistic Director of La Musica
(01:25) What got you involved in La Musica?
(04:25) Programming philosophy
(07:00) Deep dive into upcoming concerts, Beethoven and Martinu
(13:00) April 14th Concert - Beethoven, Dvorak, Dohnanyi
(16:10) April 17th Concert - Barber, Bloch, Faure
(20:50) How did you start piano and when did you know you wanted to pursue piano professionally?
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

The Magic of Community Music: Robyn Bell on The Pops Orchestra

Discover the vibrant arts scene of Sarasota County in this episode of Behind the Masterpiece! Join host Jeffery Kin as he sits down with Robyn Bell, Music Director of The Pops Orchestra, to explore how this unique community orchestra—featuring musicians from all walks of life—brings world-class performances to the Cultural Coast. From Broadway hits to patriotic tributes, Robyn shares behind-the-scenes insights into creating unforgettable concerts, collaborating with local talent, and why Sarasota is a must-visit destination for arts lovers. Whether you're planning your trip or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is your insider guide to Sarasota’s dynamic performing arts scene!
 
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Robyn Bell, Music Director of The Pops Orchestra
(01:21) The History of The Pops Orchestra
(09:30) Where do you find Guest Artists?
(12:15) Becoming the full time Music Director
(16:20) Community orchestra lead by professional musicians
(17:20) How did you get to Sarasota?
(20:50) Where did your love of music come from?
(24:00) Honoring Veterans through concerts
(25:05) Where does your inspiration come from?
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

The Making of a Masterpiece: Inside the Hermitage Artist Retreat with Andy Sandberg

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Brian Hersh sits down with Andy Sandberg, Artistic Director and CEO of the Hermitage Artists Retreat, to explore how this unique residency fosters groundbreaking creative work. Andy shares insights into the rigorous selection process, the power of artistic collaboration, and how the Hermitage serves as an incubator for world-class talent. From its prestigious Greenfield Prize to its ever-growing alumni network, discover how this retreat on Florida’s Gulf Coast shapes the future of the arts.
Tune in to hear how artistry, vision, and determination come together to bring bold new works to life.
 
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Andy Sandberg, Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hermitage Artist Retreat
(01:00) What is the Hermitage Artist Retreat?
(02:45) Where can we see works from the Hermitage Artist Retreat?
(05:20) Hermitage Artists are doing amazing work
(06:45) Starting at Hermitage and ending up on world stages
(12:00) Greenfield Prize and what is coming up for Hermitage Artist Retreat?
(15:30) How do you identify artists to attend the Hermitage Artist Retreat?
(19:20) How does your artistry inform your work as the Artistic Director?
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Rising Stars: Thayer Greenberg and the Magic of The Sarasota Players

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin chats with Thayer Greenberg, the Director of Education at Sarasota Players. Thayer shares the exciting growth of the studio, from productions like Sweeney Todd and Beetlejuice to their commitment to inclusivity and high artistic standards. With classes for ages six to adult, and a focus on accessibility through scholarships, the Players Studio is a hub for young performers to learn, grow, and shine.
Thayer also discusses the future of the Players Theater, including their upcoming move to Payne Park and the renovations planned for the new space. Tune in to hear how the Players Studio is shaping the next generation of performers and why community theater remains a vital part of Sarasota’s cultural fabric. Listen now on SarasotaPodcast.com!
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Thayer Greenberg, Director of Education at Sarasota Players and recently happenings at Sarasota Players
(03:45) What makes the Players so special?
(09:00) High level of experience in education
(09:40) What age range do you work with?
(12:30) Payne Park Auditorium
(15:15) Summer season
(18:20) Importance of community theatre
(21:00) Why The Players for you?
(24:25) Good Doctor on the road
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Embracing Our Differences – Art, Community, and Expanding Impact

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin sits down with Sarah Wertheimer, President & CEO of Embracing Our Differences, to discuss the power of art in fostering inclusion, kindness, and community engagement. Sarah shares insights into the organization's impactful exhibitions, including their expansion to St. Pete and Michigan, and the exciting future plans for a new affiliate in Cleveland.
The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of leading a nonprofit arts organization, the importance of civil discourse in our world, and the role of volunteers and board members in making a difference. Jeffery and Sarah also reflect on the intersection of arts and activism, the resilience required to push forward creative ideas, and how embracing diversity can inspire meaningful change.
Tune in to learn how Embracing Our Differences is building a bigger table—one that welcomes everyone to engage with art and dialogue in a way that transforms communities.
Embracing our Differences Website
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Sarah Wertheimer, President & CEO of Embracing our Differences
(05:00) Handling adversity
(07:10) What is Embracing our Differences?
(09:25) Reading to students
(11:00) Dealing with differences
(12:35) Opening Day of Embracing our Differences
(15:50) Cutting through our differences
(18:10) What are you looking forward to this year?
For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

Behind the Baton: Getting to Know Sarasota Orchestra Music Director Designate Giancarlo Guerrero

Behind the Masterpiece takes you into the heart of Sarasota’s vibrant arts and culture scene, exploring the stories and passion behind the artists, musicians, and creative leaders shaping our community. In this episode, host Brian Hersh sits down with six-time Grammy Award-winning conductor and Music Director Designate of the Sarasota Orchestra, Maestro Giancarlo Guerrero.
They discuss his inspiring journey from Nicaragua to becoming a world-renowned conductor, his passion for mentoring the next generation of musicians, and his vision for making classical music accessible to all. Maestro Guerrero shares his insights on the transformative power of music education and how he plans to infuse Sarasota's rich artistic community with fresh ideas and energy.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation in the world of classical music. 
Presented by Visit Sarasota County. Listen now at sarasotapodcast.com.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introducing Maestro Giancarlo Guerrero, Music Director Designate of Sarasota Orchestra
(00:45) What drew you to the Sarasota Orchestra?
(03:30) Conducting the Masterworks and commitment to contemporary music
(10:10) Going from percussionist to conductor
(14:00) Importance of music education
(19:20) Musical collaboration