TED Radio Hour What this musician’s identity crisis teaches us about navigating change
10 snips
Sep 26, 2025 
Joshua Roman, a renowned cellist and composer who rose to fame as the principal cellist of the Seattle Symphony, shares his transformative journey through long COVID. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on his music career and how it forced him to confront an identity crisis. After a period of absence from the cello, a friend's invitation reignited his passion, leading him to develop a healthier relationship with music. Joshua’s album 'Immunity' reflects his healing, showcasing the joy found in vulnerability as he performs an emotional solo piece.
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Early Cello Obsession
- Joshua Roman grew up obsessed with the cello and practiced it obsessively from childhood into adulthood.
- By age 22 he became principal cellist of the Seattle Symphony and left at 24 to pursue a solo career.
Pandemic Live Streams As Coping
- When the pandemic hit Joshua lost most income and started daily live streams and a 'Musical Journal' project to stay connected to music.
- He used music as an outlet to serve others while ignoring his personal relationship with the cello.
Long COVID Onset
- Joshua contracted COVID in January 2021 and developed long COVID symptoms like extreme fatigue, breathlessness, and brain fog.
- He describes feeling