Episodes

This episode features Raynor Carroll, the retired Principal Percussionist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, presenting excerpts from rarely performed classical works that deserve greater exposure. Composers represented include Bach, Walton, Bartók, Varèse, Berlioz, Stravinsky, Bernstein, Sibelius, Boulez, Revueltas, Britten, Chavez, Prokofiev, Copland, Mozart, Elgar, McPhee, Hindemith, and Khachaturian.

This episode centers on audition preparation. Hosted by Raynor Carroll, the former Principal Percussionist of the LA Phil, the episode features specific recommendations and suggestions directed at orchestral percussionists auditioning for symphony orchestras. The program notes, available on ABOP’s website, lists standard repertoire required on orchestra auditions for timpani and percussion, an outline of Mr. Carroll’s recommendations, and additional information. This podcast is produced by the A...

This episode centers on the LA Phil Resident Fellows Program. Hosted by Raynor Carroll, the former Principal Percussionist of the LA Phil, the episode features John Lofton, the current bass trombonist with the orchestra and the Musician Representative for the Resident Fellows Program. Together, they delve into the Program, covering its origins, eligibility criteria, audition process, benefits, achievements, and its evolution over the years. This podcast is produced by the Alliance of Black Orche...

This episode, hosted by ABOP Founder Raynor Carroll, along with ABOP Mentor Terry McKinney, focuses on acquiring concert percussion instruments: where to start; how to prioritize; purchase, rent, or borrow; keeping an inventory; etc. Topics include: Top 6-7 most important instruments, timpani, drums, cymbals and tam-tams, keyboards, accessories, Latin, and miscellaneous. This podcast is produced by the Alliance of Black Orchestral Percussionists (ABOP). ABOP is a nonprofit organization that focu...

This episode, hosted by Raynor Carroll, Founder and CEO of ABOP, focuses on key elements in transitioning from a student to professional life. Guests in this episode include Ricky Burkhead, Terry McKinney, Joseph Mitchell, and Don Parker. Topics include: Self assessment, reality and responsibility, collaboration, teamwork, problem solving, discipline, participation award, practice log or journal, balancing work and life, short- and long-term goals, priorities, procrastination, humility, and ment...

This episode, hosted by ABOP Founder & CEO, Raynor Carroll, features interviews from the floor of the exhibit hall of the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC). PASIC is held annually and presented by the Percussive Arts Society (PAS). PAS is a nonprofit music-service organization whose mission is to inspire, educate, and support percussionists and drummers throughout the world. Interviews include: ABOP Protégés, Founder (Joshua Jones), Advisors (Ricky Burkhead, Chris Hart, Ch...

This episode, presented by former Principal Percussionist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Raynor Carroll, offers insight and suggestions on being creative when performing a wide variety of standard orchestral literature. Repertoire includes: Rhapsody in Blue, Shostakovich Symphony No. 10, Trepak from the Nutcracker, Petrouchka, Abduction from the Seraglio, Scheherazade, Mahler Symphony No. 1, Ein Heldenleben, Dvorak Symphony No. 9, Dance of the Seven Veils from Salome, The Firebird, Enigma Va...