Podcast Summary: RISK! Episode - "Classically Constrained"

Introduction

In the "Classically Constrained" episode of RISK!, host Kevin Allison delves deep into the heartfelt and transformative journey of Carolyn Kendrick, a talented musician navigating the intricate balance between classical training and personal artistic expression. Joined by actress Kat Dennings, Carolyn shares her experiences, challenges, and insights that shaped her musical identity and personal growth.

Carolyn Kendrick's Early Musical Journey

Carolyn's musical foundation was firmly rooted in a classical tradition. Growing up in a family of musicians, she was immersed in a world where precision, discipline, and technical mastery were paramount.

• "From a very young age, my mom thought, well, here's what we need to do. We need to find the best teacher in Stockton." [10:17]

Under the Suzuki Method, Carolyn began her violin training, attending weekly individual and group lessons that emphasized regimented practice and technical proficiency.

• "It's very, like, militaristic in certain ways. This is how you hold it. This is how you go into rest position." [13:17]

Despite her rigorous training, Carolyn felt a disconnect between her musical education and her personal desires. While she excelled technically, she struggled to find emotional resonance in the classical pieces she was taught.

• "There was never a moment in my life where I felt like the music I am playing is connected to my soul." [22:03]

Struggle Between Classical Training and Personal Desire

As Carolyn progressed through her classical education, she became increasingly aware of the constraints imposed by the tradition. The emphasis on replication over interpretation stifled her creative instincts and left her yearning for a more authentic connection to her music.

• "It's the disconnect between, like, what I am being told to do, which is these very regimented approaches to music." [26:05]

This internal conflict extended beyond music, influencing other areas of her life where she felt compelled to follow external expectations rather than her own passions.

• "The disconnect was always there between, like, okay, what I am being told to do versus what I actually want to do." [27:50]

The Transformative Experience at Fiddle Camp

A pivotal moment in Carolyn's journey was her attendance at the Mark O'Connor Fiddle Camp hosted at Berklee College of Music. This experience marked a significant departure from her classical upbringing, introducing her to the vibrant world of folk and improvisational music.

• "It was the first time in my life where I was like, wait a second, I like this." [41:13]

At fiddle camp, Carolyn encountered a collaborative and supportive community that valued creativity and personal expression over competition. This environment allowed her to explore improvisation and connect with her authentic musical voice.

• "We are collaborating. We're playing together. We need to learn these songs together so that we can jam together." [41:13]

Discovering Community and Intrinsic Motivation

Through fiddle camp and her subsequent involvement in folk music, Carolyn discovered the profound impact of community and intrinsic motivation. She realized that engaging with music she genuinely loved fostered a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection.

• "I've been able to experience the connective and healing and, like, very progressive power of living in community." [46:11]

Carolyn emphasizes the importance of finding one's niche and building communities around shared interests, advocating for a move away from isolated and fragmented societal interactions.

• "You can find your niche. You might be into vintage cars, hand embroidery, growing calla lilies. Whatever it is, you can find community within that." [46:10]

Broader Implications and Lessons Learned

Carolyn's story offers valuable lessons on the significance of aligning one's pursuits with personal passions and the benefits of supportive communities. She critiques the often rigid structures of traditional education systems that prioritize external validation over internal satisfaction.

• "Teaching kids to connect what they want with what they should be doing is essential." [62:33]

She advocates for environments that encourage intrinsic motivation, allowing individuals to explore and develop their unique interests without undue pressure or expectation.

• "Decoupling desire from obligation will probably beget organic inspiration more so than the obligation." [58:08]

Conclusion

In "Classically Constrained," Carolyn Kendrick's narrative underscores the transformative power of pursuing one's authentic passions and the vital role of community in personal development. Her journey from the structured realm of classical music to the expressive world of folk and improvisation serves as an inspiring testament to the importance of self-discovery and intrinsic motivation. Carolyn encourages listeners to introspect, identify their genuine interests, and seek out communities that support and nurture their true selves.

Notable Quotes

• "Nothing like it. There is nothing like that." — Kat Dennings [48:55]

• "You are super atomized from each other. We can create community by looking for niche." — Carolyn Kendrick [47:02]

• "Fiddle is not for everybody, but it's a way to look forward and be like, how can I bring my values into what's left of my life." — Carolyn Kendrick [43:31]

Final Thoughts

Carolyn Kendrick's heartfelt story is a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and community in our personal and professional lives. By sharing her vulnerabilities and triumphs, she inspires listeners to take risks, trust their instincts, and cultivate environments where genuine connections and passions can flourish.