In this incredible episode, Finnegan welcomes his cello-playing friend Brianna as a co-host. Together, they interview the super-talented, super-fun, professional cellist - Amanda Keesmaat!

Listen in as they explore:

🎻 What a professional musician actually does

Amanda explains what it means to be a professional musician - she plays cello in orchestras, makes videos, records music, travels for concerts, does admin work, and practices… a LOT!

🎒 How Amanda became a professional cellist

She began cello at age 4 - after stealing her brother's violin! From there years of practices, studying, and building relationships led her to stages across the world!

🎤 Performing on stage

Even the very best musicians - like Amanda - get nervous and make mistakes. The trick: keep going! Playing for others can feel amazing.

🎼 How orchestras work

Did you know musicians get their music WAYYYY in advance of their shows? Its up to them to perfect their pieces before they come together to practice, practice, practice. No showing up last minute and not prepared.

💿 How a music CD gets made

It takes months to make a CD. Musicians pick music, rehearse, record for days, edit tracks, add artwork to produce amazing sountracks.

🎧 Video game music

Amanda (and her husband Sean!) have performed for the Assassin's Creed video games. Yes - real instruments and voices are behind those cool game soundtracks!

💡 Amanda's Advice for Kids

Practice every day - you always get out what you put in! Music is everywhere: TV, movies, commercials, games. So keep learning- there are so many fun music jobs out there!

🎉 Favourite Moments

Brianna calling the cello a "zello" when she first started
Listening to Amanda play an amazing piece of music!
Amanda describing trying to play her cello with a violin bow (spoiler: it did NOT work)
Realizing Amanda is neighbours with a famous children's author!

Stay tuned for the next Finnegan's Finn-tastics adventure! 🎧✨

Finnegan's Finn-tastics prioritizes the safety and privacy of its kid host. All communications are thoughtfully managed by a parent.