<![CDATA[Songbird Sessions]]>Tom Burkett, owner of the Songbird Live and local entrepreneur, sits down with musicians and local business owners to discuss the magic of music and why Cleburne is a top tourist destination in Texas.

]]>https://www.songbirdlive.com/Riverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Tue, 15 Sep 2026 13:48:44 GMTWed, 29 Oct 2025 20:12:10 GMT60Tom Burkett<p>Tom Burkett, owner of the Songbird Live and local entrepreneur, sits down with musicians and local business owners to discuss the magic of music and why Cleburne is a top tourist destination in Texas.</p>episodicTom Burketttom@songbirdlive.comno<![CDATA[Episode 14: Tom Burchill]]>The conversation with Tom Burchill covers a wide range of topics, including the introduction to Brazuka, the fusion of Latin music, the influence of Sergio Mendez, the process of creating original tunes, the craft of music composition, the listener-friendly nature of Latin music, the visual and entertainment aspects of music, exploring different styles of music, and the impact of live music.

Takeaways

  • Diverse Musical Influences
  • Collaborative Songwriting

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Brazuka
  • 01:11 The Fusion of Latin Music
  • 02:11 Influence of Sergio Mendez
  • 04:12 Creating Original Tunes
  • 05:12 The Craft of Music Composition
  • 06:55 The Listener-Friendly Nature of Latin Music
  • 07:40 The Visual and Entertainment Aspects of Music
  • 17:04 Exploring Different Styles of Music
  • 23:36 The Impact of Live Music
  • 36:50 Appreciating Music at Different Levels
]]>f8dac739-6b18-4c19-a254-a9c223fdde8fWed, 19 Aug 2026 02:59:19 GMT<p>The conversation with Tom Burchill covers a wide range of topics, including the introduction to Brazuka, the fusion of Latin music, the influence of Sergio Mendez, the process of creating original tunes, the craft of music composition, the listener-friendly nature of Latin music, the visual and entertainment aspects of music, exploring different styles of music, and the impact of live music.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Diverse Musical Influences</li><li>Collaborative Songwriting</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Brazuka</li><li>01:11 The Fusion of Latin Music</li><li>02:11 Influence of Sergio Mendez</li><li>04:12 Creating Original Tunes</li><li>05:12 The Craft of Music Composition</li><li>06:55 The Listener-Friendly Nature of Latin Music</li><li>07:40 The Visual and Entertainment Aspects of Music</li><li>17:04 Exploring Different Styles of Music</li><li>23:36 The Impact of Live Music</li><li>36:50 Appreciating Music at Different Levels</li></ul>no00:28:16114Episode 14: Tom Burchillfull<![CDATA[Episode 13: Dave Perez]]>The conversation with Dave Perez of Tejas Brothers covers a wide range of topics, including the band's show experience, their music, the influence of Texas culture, their approach to music and training, learning and playing instruments, the evolution of music and instruments, the role of the accordion in music, the history of jazz and music learning, diverse musical instruments and styles, the art of storytelling in music, songwriting and musical repertoire, and the journey of Tejas Brothers.

Takeaways

  • The Tejas Brothers' show experience is all about connecting with the audience and providing a fun, organic, and interactive atmosphere.
  • The music of Tejas Brothers is a mix of Tex blues, country, rock and roll, Americana, and cumbias, reflecting the diverse culture and influences of Texas.
]]>017f3494-66c6-4304-9c83-f109baee348dMon, 15 Jun 2026 16:50:47 GMT<p>The conversation with Dave Perez of Tejas Brothers covers a wide range of topics, including the band's show experience, their music, the influence of Texas culture, their approach to music and training, learning and playing instruments, the evolution of music and instruments, the role of the accordion in music, the history of jazz and music learning, diverse musical instruments and styles, the art of storytelling in music, songwriting and musical repertoire, and the journey of Tejas Brothers.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>The Tejas Brothers' show experience is all about connecting with the audience and providing a fun, organic, and interactive atmosphere.</li><li>The music of Tejas Brothers is a mix of Tex blues, country, rock and roll, Americana, and cumbias, reflecting the diverse culture and influences of Texas.</li></ul>no00:24:53Episode 13: Dave Perezfull<![CDATA[Episode 12: Dave Butler and his Carbon Fiber Trombones]]>Dave Butler discusses the innovation of carbon fiber trombones, their production process, and the impact on trombone players. He also shares insights into the development of mouthpieces and mutes using 3D printing technology.

]]>aabbebba-a392-4cb3-9e43-a6404849ccb1Mon, 11 May 2026 22:50:30 GMT<p>Dave Butler discusses the innovation of carbon fiber trombones, their production process, and the impact on trombone players. He also shares insights into the development of mouthpieces and mutes using 3D printing technology.</p>no00:31:01112Episode 12: Dave Butler and his Carbon Fiber Trombonesfull<![CDATA[Episode 11: Lynn Seaton]]>Lynn Seaton, a world-class bassist, discusses his musical journey, upcoming concert, and the role of the bass player in a band. He also shares insights about the musicians performing with him and the importance of engaging with the audience.

Takeaways

  • Bass players play a crucial role in supporting and leading the band
  • The upcoming concert will feature a diverse set of music, including swing, jazz, blues, and South American influences
]]>39714ddd-e14a-4deb-9a7b-b9c9a56b52d3Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:36:09 GMT<p>Lynn Seaton, a world-class bassist, discusses his musical journey, upcoming concert, and the role of the bass player in a band. He also shares insights about the musicians performing with him and the importance of engaging with the audience.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Bass players play a crucial role in supporting and leading the band</li><li>The upcoming concert will feature a diverse set of music, including swing, jazz, blues, and South American influences</li></ul>no00:17:23111Episode 11: Lynn Seatonfull<![CDATA[Episode 10: Marc Toussaint ]]>Mark Toussaint, a fantastic musician, discusses his approach to performing and interpreting songs from the Great American Songbook. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience and the unique dynamics between the singer and the musicians.

]]>9e0f7f9c-2edb-496b-b75d-f2c12b6e6fb9Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:48:48 GMT<p>Mark Toussaint, a fantastic musician, discusses his approach to performing and interpreting songs from the Great American Songbook. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience and the unique dynamics between the singer and the musicians.</p><p></p>no00:21:10110Episode 10: Marc Toussaint full<![CDATA[Episode 9: Brad Leali and Carla Helmbrecht]]>This conversation covers the diverse musical backgrounds of Brad Leali and Carla Helmbrecht, their experiences with big band performances. We discuss the energy and dynamics of live band performances, and the challenges of balancing work and travel. We also delve into the perception of jazz in society and the influence of media on music.

Takeaways

  • Diverse Musical Backgrounds
  • The Energy of Big Band Performances

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background
  • 06:17 Vocalist and Accompanist
  • 11:19 Singing with Big Band vs. Combo
  • 16:20 Perception of Jazz in Society
  • 23:00 Final Thoughts
]]>625faf8d-b09b-47fd-ac54-773490c66ef9Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:11:40 GMT<p>This conversation covers the diverse musical backgrounds of Brad Leali and Carla Helmbrecht, their experiences with big band performances. We discuss the energy and dynamics of live band performances, and the challenges of balancing work and travel. We also delve into the perception of jazz in society and the influence of media on music.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Diverse Musical Backgrounds</li><li>The Energy of Big Band Performances</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>06:17 Vocalist and Accompanist</li><li>11:19 Singing with Big Band vs. Combo</li><li>16:20 Perception of Jazz in Society</li><li>23:00 Final Thoughts</li></ul>no00:21:5919Episode 9: Brad Leali and Carla Helmbrechtfull<![CDATA[Episode 8: Quamon Fowler]]>The conversation covers Quamon Fowler's influences and musical style, as well as the role of social media in music promotion. Quamon discusses his approach to music, the influences that have shaped his style, and the upcoming concert. Additionally, the conversation delves into the importance of social media in promoting music and building a community of music lovers.

]]>7796c0c1-689c-4348-ac0e-1ce8f464aa3eMon, 16 Feb 2026 16:00:00 GMT<p>The conversation covers Quamon Fowler's influences and musical style, as well as the role of social media in music promotion. Quamon discusses his approach to music, the influences that have shaped his style, and the upcoming concert. Additionally, the conversation delves into the importance of social media in promoting music and building a community of music lovers.</p>no00:26:2818Episode 8: Quamon Fowlerfull<![CDATA[Episode 7: David Judson]]>The conversation between Tom Burkett and David Judson explores the unique and intimate experience of performing and listening at the Songbird venue. The focus is on the close interaction between the musicians and the audience, the impact of the venue's setup on the performance, and the personal stories shared by the performers.

]]>fca1dbdf-0682-4ae1-af2d-4b1e59f5b62aMon, 02 Feb 2026 18:06:38 GMT<p>The conversation between Tom Burkett and David Judson explores the unique and intimate experience of performing and listening at the Songbird venue. The focus is on the close interaction between the musicians and the audience, the impact of the venue's setup on the performance, and the personal stories shared by the performers.</p><p></p><p></p>no00:36:1917Episode 7: David Judsonfull<![CDATA[Episode 6: Marshall Mcferrin]]>The conversation delves into the musical journey of the Marshall McFerrin Trio, their family history, and the influences. It also explores the purpose of music, the complexity of musical storytelling, and the creative process of songwriting. Additionally, it highlights the impact of a John Lennon Songwriting Scholarship and a custom-made guitar during their musical carrer. The conversation explores the art of songwriting and storytelling, discussing the levels of song listening and analyzing the song 'Poetry of Texas.' Finally, it delves into the structure of folk music and the importance of song structure in storytelling through music.

Takeaways

  • Musical journey and family history
  • Songwriting and creativity
  • Influence of Bob Dylan
  • Musical complexity and storytelling Musical Journey
  • Songwriting and Storytelling
  • Folk Music and Structure

]]>feb59398-25e0-46ac-98f5-70cbaeb7b529Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:46:14 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the musical journey of the Marshall McFerrin Trio, their family history, and the influences. It also explores the purpose of music, the complexity of musical storytelling, and the creative process of songwriting. Additionally, it highlights the impact of a John Lennon Songwriting Scholarship and a custom-made guitar during their musical carrer. The conversation explores the art of songwriting and storytelling, discussing the levels of song listening and analyzing the song 'Poetry of Texas.' Finally, it delves into the structure of folk music and the importance of song structure in storytelling through music.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Musical journey and family history</li><li>Songwriting and creativity</li><li>Influence of Bob Dylan</li><li>Musical complexity and storytelling Musical Journey</li><li>Songwriting and Storytelling</li><li>Folk Music and Structure</li></ul><p></p>no00:44:5216Episode 6: Marshall Mcferrinfull<![CDATA[Episode 5: Jim Rosenthal & Windy City]]>The conversation with Jim Rosenthal, the leader of Windy City, a Chicago tribute band, covers the band's formation, the challenges of recruiting and retaining talented musicians, the importance of accuracy in playing Chicago's music, as well as band's dedication to learning and internalizing Chicago's music

Chapters

  • 00:00 Formation of Windy City
  • 05:52 Importance of Accuracy in Playing Chicago's Music
  • 12:02 Impact of the Audience's Response
  • 17:56 Appreciation for Performing at the Songbird
]]>b6b19e9d-0029-48ca-b90f-b7fb00adfbc2Wed, 07 Jan 2026 02:21:43 GMT<p>The conversation with Jim Rosenthal, the leader of Windy City, a Chicago tribute band, covers the band's formation, the challenges of recruiting and retaining talented musicians, the importance of accuracy in playing Chicago's music, as well as band's dedication to learning and internalizing Chicago's music</p><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Formation of Windy City</li><li>05:52 Importance of Accuracy in Playing Chicago's Music</li><li>12:02 Impact of the Audience's Response</li><li>17:56 Appreciation for Performing at the Songbird</li></ul>no00:25:2815Episode 5: Jim Rosenthal & Windy Cityfull<![CDATA[Rob Vano and the Bells of Christmas (Part 2)]]>Tom Burkett and Rob Vono discuss in more detail some of the songs that will be featured in the brand new original Christmas concert coming to Cleburne in 2025 on December 14, and 15. Listen as these two old friends discuss this local Christmas staple featuring a 14 piece orchestra that is coming to this small Texas Town. https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows

]]>2936e0ad-fab5-4094-9a91-412839276391Tue, 02 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMT<p>Tom Burkett and Rob Vono discuss in more detail some of the songs that will be featured in the brand new original Christmas concert coming to Cleburne in 2025 on December 14, and 15. Listen as these two old friends discuss this local Christmas staple featuring a 14 piece orchestra that is coming to this small Texas Town. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows" target="_blank">https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows</a></p>no00:21:0014Rob Vano and the Bells of Christmas (Part 2)full<![CDATA[Rob Vono and the Bells of Christmas (Part 1)]]>Tom Burkett and Rob Vono discuss the brand new original Christmas concert coming to Cleburne in 2025 on December 14, and 15 featuring a 14 piece live orchestra. Listen as these two music lovers discuss this Christmas staple coming to this small Texas Town. https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows

]]>2094c678-242e-412e-b35e-265f684790c7Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT<p>Tom Burkett and Rob Vono discuss the brand new original Christmas concert coming to Cleburne in 2025 on December 14, and 15 featuring a 14 piece live orchestra. Listen as these two music lovers discuss this Christmas staple coming to this small Texas Town. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows" target="_blank">https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows</a></p>no00:25:2713Rob Vono and the Bells of Christmas (Part 1)full<![CDATA[Episode 2: Quanom Fowler]]>Quanom Fowler tells songbird owner Tom Burkett about his origins and life story of becoming a professional saxophone player.

]]>db0c0cdb-5bab-43c9-9010-26103b83f650Sat, 08 Nov 2025 18:05:39 GMT<p>Quanom Fowler tells songbird owner Tom Burkett about his origins and life story of becoming a professional saxophone player.</p>no00:42:40Episode 2: Quanom Fowlerfull<![CDATA[Episode 1: Jon Korake and the Bells of Christmas]]>Tom Burkett and John Korake discuss an original Christmas production coming to Cleburne in December.

Songbird Schedule and Tickets: https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows

]]>0295e58f-c72d-4704-ad44-d6c96cb785bbWed, 29 Oct 2025 20:14:48 GMT<p>Tom Burkett and John Korake discuss an original Christmas production coming to Cleburne in December.</p><p></p><p>Songbird Schedule and Tickets:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows" target="_blank"> https://www.songbirdlive.com/shows</a></p>no00:27:0011Episode 1: Jon Korake and the Bells of Christmasfull