Composer Chat is a podcast where we talk a little bit about music, a little bit about life, and a whole lot about whatever we feel like at the moment! Each episode I am joined by a special guest composer and we will chat about their pathway towards success in their musical career!
5-time Grammy nominee David Arkenstone has established himself as one of the best contemporary instrumentalists of our time. This visionary continues to create distinctive tracks that inspire the imagination. A musical storyteller, David is passionate about taking listeners on a journey, creating sonic tapestries that evoke every emotion. “I envision a place where I would like to go, or an adventure I would like to take, and let my imagination run free,” says David. “I’ve gotten countless messages from listeners who love to take these journeys with me. I’m sometimes surprised by how powerfully people respond to my music.”
David enjoys touring and meeting his fans from around the world. “One of the most exciting things about performing live is the interaction I have with the audience. It’s very different than making a recording, where you’re not sure who will be listening to it. A lot of the roots of our musicianship come into focus in a live situation. You’re in the moment, you perform your best, and many times reach new heights – then it’s gone and on to the next show!”
David loves to travel and enjoys photographing the world. His recent trip to Iceland, Switzerland and other parts of Europe will surely inspire new music.
https://davidarkenstone.com
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuVV3dzZRRwC98-FftEBSng
28 Jul 2026
3.19 - Sheila Bristow
Sheila Bristow is a composer, church musician, and collaborative keyboardist based in Tacoma, WA. She serves as Music Director & Organist at St. Barnabas, Bainbridge, and keyboardist for Harmonia Orchestra & Chorus. She is also in demand as an opera accompanist, vocal coach, and continuo performer.
Sheila’s compositions are heard regularly in worship and concert. Recent awards include the American Prize, Third Place in the major choral works division, for "When Music Sounds" (for solo tenor, chorus, and orchestra). She holds degrees in composition and organ performance from Cornish College of the Arts and the University of Washington.
https://www.sheilagailbristow.com
21 Jul 2026
3.18 - Emily Graham
Emily is an educator, musician, composer in Washington State. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of North Dakota and is currently pursuing a Masters of Film Scoring through Berklee School of Music. She is celebrating her 12th year in education and stays active as a performer in the Puget Sound region. Beyond her musical pursuits, Emily is also a visual artist and longarm quilter, adding a unique dimension to her creative expression.
Emily’s goal as a composer is to craft pieces that resonate with every student, providing them with a part they love playing. As an educator, Emily strives to cultivate a space where students experience the joy and exhilaration of achieving something challenging together. Her compositions have been selected for Editor’s Choice on JW Pepper, and multiple state lists. She currently lives in Tacoma, Washington with her partner, and two cats.
https://www.emharmonicmusic.com
Who has been a guest on Composer Chats
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Shruthi Rajasekar
Dennis Tobenski
Daniel Kidane
Mark Orton
Joseph Metcalfe
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
30,240
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 46 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
39
Social presence
0
YouTube
72
Engagement
60
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