The Moth The Moth Radio Hour: All the World’s a Stage
13 snips
Jul 22, 2025 Laura Hitchcock shares a childhood mishap involving a borrowed trumpet, bridging trust and teamwork in a humorous tale. Jason Mesches recounts his unconventional piano teacher, revealing the quirky side of music education. Comedian Phil Wang reflects on navigating a lisp during a school production of Mary Poppins, showcasing resilience in the face of childhood insecurities. Liz Phair recounts a chaotic performance at the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, reminding us that even the best can face unexpected challenges.
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Trapped Trumpet Mishap
- Laura Hitchcock was entrusted with her teacher's 18-year-old trumpet at age eight and accidentally got the mouthpiece stuck inside it.
- After a humorous family effort involving a garden cane and frozen peas, they finally freed the mouthpiece, learning when to ask for help.
Unconventional Piano Mentorship
- Jason Mesches' piano teacher dismissed modern music and insisted he learn the Great American musical standards.
- This unconventional mentorship helped Jason master music by ear and chord progressions instead of reading sheet music.
Audition To Remember
- Ashley Johnson quit her corporate job to pursue acting in LA but suffered an embarrassing audition when her dental veneer fell out.
- Despite the mishap, she finished singing and landed an agency contract, proving the show must go on.
