Show Notes:
On this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steve Roby speaks with pianist and composer Lynne Arriale about her latest album, Being Human, and the ideas behind music shaped by hope, resilience, and shared human feeling.

Arriale reflects on her early musical path, from playing songs by ear on a toy piano to discovering jazz through the freedom of improvisation. She also discusses the inspiration behind Being Human, a suite of original compositions written in response to division and turmoil, with pieces centered on qualities such as passion, courage, love, faith, and joy.

In the conversation, Arriale discusses two of the album’s featured pieces, “Passion” and “Joy,” and explains how she tries to translate emotional and human qualities into music. She also speaks about what music can express when words fall short and what she hopes listeners take away from a live performance.

The songs featured in this podcast, “Passion” and “Joy,” were provided by the artist and used with the artist’s permission.

Lynne also previews her upcoming Bay Area appearance with the Lynne Arriale Trio at Piedmont Piano Company in Oakland, where she’ll perform music from Being Human alongside new compositions.

Upcoming Show:
Lynne Arriale Trio
Saturday, April 25, 2026
5:30 p.m.
Piedmont Piano Company
1728 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland

Tickets and details: Piedmont Piano Company