Neo Classical – Holly Mulcahy on the future of classical music

A Journey Of Legacy, Appreciation, and Heart

Mon, Sep 2, 2013

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Holly Mulcahy

The legacy and longevity of the Minnesota Orchestra is at a tipping point. While there have been many excellent articles, online discussions, and interviews about how the orchestra got to this point, it is extremely important to remind ourselves in as many ways possible just what is at stake. Perhaps one way to realize this is to liken the cultural institution to Amish Friendship Bread, which is a type of sour dough that takes about 10 days to create and users are encouraged to pass along the starter along with finished loaves. … Continue Reading

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The Gift

Mon, Aug 5, 2013

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Holly Mulcahy

It was while shopping for a friend’s birthday present as a 9 year old that I learned a very important lesson. Part of my allowance money was used to purchase this gift, but it wasn’t the value of money or the act of giving that was the lesson; it was the thought involved in the process. As I reached for a puzzle, my mother asked me, “Would you want to receive this as a gift?” The answer was no. “Think, what would you want to receive as a gift if it was … Continue Reading

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Concertmaster Connections: An Introduction

Mon, Jul 1, 2013

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Holly Mulcahy

Whenever a new neighbor would move into a house on our block, my mother would bake some cookies or some bread, walk over with the edibles and welcome the new people to the neighborhood. One year she insisted I come along, which was torture because I was shy. I remember asking her, “Why do this when nobody did it when we moved in?” It turns out that others might have been shy, too. I’m grateful that my mom made me tag along that day because it taught me the importance of reaching … Continue Reading

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House Party Concert Guide!

Mon, May 27, 2013

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Holly Mulcahy

[fivecol_one] Who [/fivecol_one] [fivecol_four_last]You are cordially invited to host a gathering of your friends (and friends of friends!) at your house to enjoy an intimate classical music concert![/fivecol_four_last] [fivecol_one] What [/fivecol_one] [fivecol_four_last]Concert will be either a solo musician or small ensemble performing for about 45+/- minutes. Cocktails and dinner, or brunch and coffee, or BBQ and beer will be served![/fivecol_four_last] [fivecol_one] When Where [/fivecol_one] [fivecol_four_last]Party and concert is at your house at a time of day when everyone will be in the mood to enjoy and neighbors might not be disturbed.[/fivecol_four_last] [fivecol_one] … Continue Reading

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Selling My Concerts at 30,000 Feet

Sun, May 12, 2013

by:

Holly Mulcahy

I use to be shy and apologetic when I’d talk about my upcoming concerts. It’s easy to assume people would find classical music boring, a dying art, hard to care, etc. But a few years ago, something clicked for me. If we sell our art like it’s not worthy, why on Earth would anyone want to come to a concert much less listen to a recording? I love what I do and I believe to my core that symphonic music is accessible, enjoyable, and inviting to anyone if shared the right way. … Continue Reading

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