Welcome back to The Vocal Lab Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented Stephen Richardson. Stephen is an accomplished musician, educator, and twice JUNO-nominated artist, recently recognized as the 2024 JUNO MusiCounts Music Teacher of the Year.

As the creative force behind the solo project Agony of the Leaves and guitarist-songwriter for the Canadian indie rock band 3-Across-Dee-Eye, Richardson’s music has reached national and international audiences through platforms like CBC TV, syndicated shows such as Wild Kitchen, and the documentary Pixelated Heroes. His work has also been highlighted in Canadian Musician Magazine, with notable recognition for the song Where’s the Sleep?, nominated for Best New Single at the 2022 NWT Music Awards.

As a dedicated music educator in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Stephen integrates inclusive teaching practices, focusing on neurodiversity and cultural representation in music. He is a graduate of the prestigious STFX Jazz program and a passionate advocate for innovative, student-centered music education. With has endorsements from JT Riboloff Samick and Andrew White guitars, Stephen is the co-owner of Double D Rockstar Studios, and continues to compose, perform, and mentor aspiring artists across Canada.

During our conversation, we delve deep into Richard's journey in the business and his keys to learning in music. Stephen highlights the importance of a vision in promoting yourself among so much competition in the modern world. We also discuss the crucial role education can play in music and the joy of learning and teaching. Stephen emphasises the importance of funding and appreciation for music by governing bodies. Stephen offers advice on mistakes he made through his music career as well as key pillars in music development, like playing live as much as 100 times per year, and learning a few chords for a quick, easy, and effective way into the guitar.

Find: YouTube: / @agonyoftheleaves_officialband

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6hljV...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agonyofthele...

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Theme music for The Vocal Lab by FreshEars Audio

The Vocal Lab Podcast is produced by Alexi Johnson, 604 Podcast Network

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