

HOWA EP 140 - ROB BURGER
May 29, 2025
Rob Burger, a talented solo artist and film composer, has collaborated with heavyweights like Laurie Anderson and Lou Reed. He shares his musical journey, reflecting on the powerful connections that shape creativity. Burger discusses the importance of improvisation, balancing artistry with life, and the evolution of home music production. With anecdotes from his vibrant career and insights into the collaborative process, he highlights how relationships in the music industry have enriched his artistic evolution.
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Rob's Early Musical Roots
- Rob Burger started playing piano at age four with a mix of forced lessons and natural inclination.
- His grandparents influenced his early exposure to theater, music, and art in New York.
The Power of Combining Training and Ear
- Rob combined formal classical training with improvisation and playing by ear.
- This blend informed his unique musical sensibility and freedom within structure.
Learning from Jazz Masters
- Rob studied jazz with legends like Yusef Lateef and Max Roach during college, learning to focus on feel and minimal notes.
- This training showed him that much expression can come from simple musical constraints.