

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

Mar 1, 2024 • 59min
191 David Radzynski: Insights from the Concertmaster's Chair
Conversation with David Radzynski, concertmaster of The Cleveland Orchestra, covering topics such his practice habits, violin technique, managing repertoire efficiently, overcoming doubts, and the importance of self-awareness and kindness in our musical journey. Tune in for inspiration for your practice! Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT DAVID RADZYNSKI Website: https://www.davidradzynski.com/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sababa123 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dradzyns/ 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.

Feb 23, 2024 • 48min
190 Practicing for YOUR Ideal Performance
In this episode, we're diving deep into the art of "Practicing for YOUR Ideal Performance." We explore crucial concepts and ideas surrounding effective practice, tackle common practicing problems, uncover the basic principles of mindful and efficient practice, and you'll get four effective practicing techniques to start implementing today. 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.

Feb 16, 2024 • 1h
189 Austin Pancner: The Functional Musician
In this episode, Austin Pancner, founder of The Functional Musician, discusses musician injuries—why they happen, prevention strategies, and recovery steps. Gain insights into holistic wellness tailored for musicians. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT AUSTIN PANCNER Website: https://www.thefunctionalmusician.com/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg5ISvN5014_54OzdSy6aIw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefunctionalmusician/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalmusician/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefunctionalmusician/ 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.

Feb 9, 2024 • 54min
188 Drew Forde: The Extra-Classical Musician
Explore the future of classical music, dive into industry growth, and redefine your role as a musician with Drew Forde, That Viola Kid. Drew shares insights on navigating the classical music industry's business landscape, sparking creativity through music education, and much more. Join the journey of growth in the creator economy and discover the limitless possibilities in the world of music. Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT DREW FORDE – THAT VIOLA KID: Website: https://thatviolakid.com/ Drew's Newsletter – Grace Notes: https://thatviolakid.com/gracenotes YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf25l5VFL3N20nH7L2gZeqQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThatViolaKid Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatviolakid X: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FThatViolaKid Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/ohsnapitstvk Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ohsnapitstvk 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.

Feb 2, 2024 • 30min
187 Planning for YOUR Ideal Performance
Everything you need to plan for a stellar performance: Dive into the secrets of dream performance planning Uncover why we sometimes fall short of our best Explore the power of crystal-clear vision and how to get it How to organize your preparation process Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Visit MindOverFinger.com for all things peak performance – including impactful online courses and 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.

Dec 22, 2023 • 45min
186 Gear Up 2024 with Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A SPECTACULAR YEAR Whether you want to rock the stage for your next performance, win an audition, land your dream job, transform your teaching studio, or start a new music business: IT'S POSSIBLE! And this episode will help you set things up for your massive success! You will walk away with: A renewed vision for the future Clear goals and specific strategies to implement and create an incredible musical reality for yourself Unwavering confidence in your ability to succeed A feeling of dedication to the process The motivation to get started and, more importantly, to KEEP GOING! Gear Up for 2024! Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Grab your FREE Gear Up 2024 Workbook HERE Mind Over Finger Visit MindOverFinger.com for all things peak performance – including impactful online courses and 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.

Dec 15, 2023 • 22min
185 Paul Lueders: Backstage Pass
Backstage conversation with Paul Lueders, Principal Oboist of the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra. We chat about: The challenges of performing multiple shows a day The audition process Overcoming performance anxiety Paul's specific warm-ups and mindset to prepare for long opera performances His approach to phrasing and musicality Some of his practicing tips And much more! Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT PAUL Website: https://www.lyricopera.org/about/company/artists-musicians/lyric-opera-orchestra/paul-lueders/ YouTube links: 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.

Dec 8, 2023 • 45min
184 Dr. Hannah Murray: Move Better to Play Better
Conversation with Dr. Hannah Murray of corpSonore, including topics such as: Why understanding anatomy is crucial for musicians to play with proper technique and avoid injuries. The importance of distributing tension and integrity evenly throughout the body for better music-making. The importance of patience in the practice room, as it allows for deeper exploration and understanding of the body and movement. Our views on the need for a more holistic approach to music education And so much more! Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT HANNAH & CORPSONORE Website: www.activeviolinist.com CorpSonore: https://www.corpsonore.com/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@corpsonoresoundbodywellnes8085/videos Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CorpSonore Hannah's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/activeviolinist/ CorpSonore's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corpsonore/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/corpsonore-sound-body-wellness/ As a gift to you, Hannah has created a code for 1 free class on the corpSonore platform. You can use code MOF10 at checkout to attend any live class or use it for any class in the on-demand library. The Pain Free Performer The Pain-Free Performer is a 3-month program beginning January 8th. This experience is designed for musicians looking for solutions to playing-related pain and discomfort who feel like they have untapped potential inside of them. If you've struggled with the same aches and pains for years and can't quite find a long-term fix, your nerves get the best of you in high-stress environments, or your students constantly ask you questions you feel you can't answer, this course is for you. CorpSonore has carefully crafted this offering to support your music-making and enhance your artistry using a 3-dimensional approach that includes nutrition, movement, mindfulness, anatomy, private study, group classes, guest masterclasses, and ongoing support. It's time to take care of musicians and create long-lasting careers from the inside out. To learn more, visit: https://www.corpsonore.com/painfreeperformer. To check in, say hi, and find out if this is the right program for you, book a free consultation at https://www.corpsonore.com/oneonone-sessions And to drop me a note the old-fashioned way, you can email me at hannah@corpsonore.com. 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.

Nov 24, 2023 • 23min
183 Three Mistakes You Make & How to Solve Them
In this episode, I uncover the three main mistakes musicians often make in their performance preparation. I dive into crafting a clear vision and personalized planning for your musical journey, exploring effective practice techniques, and honing mind management for optimal performance outcomes. Plus, don't miss out on my exclusive Black Friday event—details inside the episode! ✨Peak Performance Bundle✨ · 25% off Practicing for Peak Performance online course · Performance Anxiety Solution Workshop for FREE ($47 value) · Exclusive live group coaching session with Dr. Gauthier on 12/15/23 ✨Go to www.mindoverfinger.com/ppp & enter code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout! ✨ Grab 50% off the Performance Anxiety Solution Workshop HERE and enter code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout Download the transcript from this episode HERE Mind Over Finger Visit MindOverFinger.com for all things peak performance – including impactful online courses and 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.

Nov 17, 2023 • 23min
182 Njioma Grievous: Backstage Pass
Conversation with the versatile and dynamic violin soloist and chamber musician Njioma Grievous , winner of the Robert F. Smith First Prize and the Audience Choice awards of the Sphinx Competition. Topics including · Her performance preparation and pre-performance routines · The importance of Receiving and following advice · The skills she thinks are important to develop · Her favorite tool in the practice room and the great way she uses it · How she gets herself to practice when she doesn't feel like it · Her no. 1 advice for people taking auditions · The changes she would like to see in the classical music world · And her actionable tip on how to memorize music Book your free consultation with Renée HERE Download the transcript from this episode HERE MORE ABOUT NJIOMA GREVIOUS Website: https://www.njiomagrevious.com/ YouTube: Watch Here Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ngrevious8/ Abeo Quartet: Website: https://www.abeoquartet.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abeoquartet/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abeoquartet 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.


