

The Mind Over Finger Podcast
Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier
Discussions on mindful music-making, efficient practice, and building a purposeful career with the performers, pedagogues, and innovators who are shaping the classical music world today!
The Mind Over Finger Podcast is a resource for knowledge, insight, tips, tricks, and inspiration for musicians interested in learning more about practicing mindfully, performing optimally, and getting more intentional in creating a fulfilling musical career.
We provide you with the tools to mindfully shift your musical practice from unconscious to deliberate, from paint-by-numbers to art by flow, from going through the motions to delightful play!
The Mind Over Finger Podcast is a resource for knowledge, insight, tips, tricks, and inspiration for musicians interested in learning more about practicing mindfully, performing optimally, and getting more intentional in creating a fulfilling musical career.
We provide you with the tools to mindfully shift your musical practice from unconscious to deliberate, from paint-by-numbers to art by flow, from going through the motions to delightful play!
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 17, 2024 • 27min
201 Why You're Stuck & How to Break Free
Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward? Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you! In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place: Lack of clear vision and goals Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present Fear of making decisions Worrying about judgment from others Perfectionism holding you back More importantly, I share actionable insights on how making decisions and taking steps can lead to clarity, personal growth, and fulfillment. Ready to break free and move forward? Tune in and let's uncover the strategies to overcome these barriers together! Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

May 10, 2024 • 1h 3min
200 Mastery, Mindfulness & Music
Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator. Additionally, we cover: My perspectives on performance anxiety and finding joy in music through mindfulness The pursuit of creativity and mastery in music Personal growth, trauma, empathy, and support And much more Tune in now to gain inspiration from our conversation and explore your own path to mastery, mindfulness, creativity, and perhaps even entrepreneurship. I'd love to hear your reflections on this milestone. Which episode has been your favorite, or which concept resonated with you the most? Feel free to reach out via direct message to share your thoughts! Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

May 5, 2024 • 52min
199 Rob Knopper: Audition Hacker
Conversation with Rob Knopper, percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and audition expert, creator of Audition Hacker. You'll hear about how he painstakingly developed his process (through trials and errors, and lots of reflection), his method to prepare for an audition, and the specifics of how to record yourself for maximum results. Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT ROB KNOPPER Website: www.robknopper.com YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@robknopperstudio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robknopperpercussion/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robknopper/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-knopper-98998aa7/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ipoC3frMoO4AtG2KvP8Zv Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Apr 26, 2024 • 48min
198 How to Create Anything You Want – Part 2
In this episode of "Mastering the Stage" Part 2, we build on the foundational strategies from Part 1 to further enhance your project planning and execution. We discuss: · Avoiding common planning and execution errors. · Effectively assessing data and setting realistic, balanced goals. · Enhancing mindset and self-awareness to overcome artistic challenges. Tune in to refine your approach and achieve your musical and personal goals. Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE Get access the entire workshop - including detailed worksheets, Q&A session insights, presentation slides, and a powerful visualization exercise HERE. Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Apr 19, 2024 • 1h 11min
197 How to Create Anything You Want
In this transformative episode, I share powerful strategies that will revolutionize your planning and goal pursuit: Discover what's been missing in your planning. Learn the key elements that will change everything for you. Understand what works and what doesn't in achieving your goals. Find out how to create real, lasting motivation. Get access the entire workshop - including detailed worksheets, Q&A session insights, presentation slides, and a powerful visualization exercise HERE. Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience strategy call with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Apr 12, 2024 • 51min
196 Jalayne Mitchell: Classical Wellness
In this episode, I'm joined by Jalayne Mitchell, founder of Classical Wellness, to discuss key issues surrounding mental health in the music industry. Our conversation covers a range of topics including: The impact of trauma on musicians. Holistic approaches to music careers. Managing self-doubt. The importance of setting healthy boundaries. Business insights and self-discovery in music. Book your FREE Music Mastery Experience Discovery call with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT JALAYNE MITCHELL AND CLASSICAL WELLNESS Website: https://www.classical-wellness.com/ The Musicians' Wellness Symposium: https://www.classical-wellness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classicalwellness/ Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Mar 29, 2024 • 57min
195 Katherine Emeneth: Build & Grow Your Music Career
Today's discussion features Dr. Katherine Emeneth, a multifaceted artist in flute performance, collaboration, education, and pedagogy. Key points include: Being intentional about your choices when you're building your career The future of musicians' careers with a portfolio approach. The need to develop multiple skills to grow your career Overcoming self-doubt as you go about your journey The importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing your health and well-being to build a more fulfilling and sustainable career. Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT KATHERINE EMENETH Website: https://www.katherineemeneth.com Facebook Group – The Classical Musicianeer: https://www.facebook.com/groups/410168472889398 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherineemeneth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherineemeneth Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Mar 22, 2024 • 56min
194 Gloria Lum: Audition Confidential
Gloria Lum, cellist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic & founder of Audition Confidential shares insight on profound audition preparation techniques, talks about the significance of mindset in musical performance, and offers pragmatic practice tips. Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT GLORIA LUM Website: https://www.auditionconfidential.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100037763813779 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audition_confidential/ Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Mar 15, 2024 • 40min
193 Conditioning for YOUR Ideal Performance
In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, we explore the art of conditioning for optimal musical performance. Join us as we uncover practical strategies to bridge the gap between practice and stage, empowering musicians to excel in high-pressure situations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, these insights will help you unleash your full potential on stage. Tune in now to elevate your performance game! Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Mar 8, 2024 • 60min
192 Lynn Kuo: Positivity, Resilience, & Musical Mastery
In this episode, I bring you a conversation with violinist Lynn Kuo, Assistant Concertmaster of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra and Founder/CEO of Violin with Dr. Lynn. We covered topics such as: The impact a supportive teacher has on a student Performance psychology Improving our playing through mindfulness and self-awareness Practicing with a scientific approach Cultivating positivity and success through gratitude and resilience How to overcome self-doubt in musicians Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT LYNN KUO Website: https://lynnkuo.com/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT4nzpXM8xYaJsnuzBcHCRg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/violynnkuo/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violynnkuo/ Mind Over Finger Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me. Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance. Connect: https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/ THANK YOU: Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show's musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.


