Katie Scheele, Oboe Faculty "I enjoy listening to music that is unusual and experimental, yet beautifully expressive," says oboe faculty member Katie Scheele of her musical taste. "I like to listen to music that inspires my own playing. I love it when artists are not afraid to use unconventional techniques and instruments to create their sound." Katie discovers new music through recommendations from friends, attending concerts, and reading online music reviews. "Having friends involved in all types of music, I am lucky to have suggestions coming my way fairly often!" While Katie is open to all musical styles, she especially enjoys works from the early and middle decades of the 20 th century. "I would also have to say that I am particularly interested in music that blends different styles together." Katie would recommend the albums below to friends, students, colleagues and "anyone who is interested in hearing some really great music!" Artist: Nino Rota Album: La Dolce Vita Why Katie likes this particular artist/album: I recently discovered Nino Rota when a friend recommended his music to me. Nino Rota was famous for his work with film director Federico Fellini, with whom he had a 30-year partnership. I love the old-fashioned recordings of film orchestras, as the sound is so pure, honest and unedited. He also writes some lovely lines for oboe and English horn, which I particularly enjoy! Favorite track(s) on the album: "La Dolce Vita/Arrivederci Roma/Caracalla's la Bersagliera", "Lola" (Yes Sir, That's My Baby), and "Finale" Artist: Tin Hat Trio Album: Helium Why Katie likes this particular artist/album: I really like the way this trio (accordion/piano, guitar, and violin) blends so many different genres of music together, from classical to folk to jazz improvisation. Their music has the power to transport your mind to different parts of the world and to generations past. I also really like the trio's use of unconventional rhythms and harmonies. Favorite track(s) on the album: "Esperanto", "Brennero", and "Big House Blues" Artist: Michael Leonhart Album: Hotel Music Why Katie likes this particular artist/album: This album by Michael Leonhart (a friend and musical colleague of mine) is so innovative and engaging. The album was conceived while Michael was playing trumpet on tour with Steely Dan last summer. In his free time, Michael used the sights and sounds of four continents to create this album. He captured these inspirations on camera and cell phone microphones, brought them back to his studio and turned them into a beautifully crafted album. Each song on Michael's album is quite unique, representing a different part of his journey around the world. I love to listen to this album on my morning train rides! Favorite track(s) on the album: "Viennese Snow Song for Mona", "Hawaiian Sink Divers", and Adelaide Artist: Stereolab Album: Cobra and Phases Group Play Voltage In the Milky Night Why Katie likes this particular artist/album: Although the experimental rock group Stereolab was one of the most influential alternative bands of the '90s, much of their music seems influenced by pop music from the '60s. I really like how the group layers their music. These layers usually include a hypnotic rhythmic track under the beautifully seamless and revolutionary vocals of Laetitia Sadier often accompanied by a vibraphone or other percussive instruments. Great to listen to while walking around the city! Favorite track(s) on the album: "Blips Drips and Strips", "Op Hop Detonation", and "Fuses" Artist: Neil Young Album: Harvest Why Katie likes this particular artist/album: I think that Neil Young is one of the most talented and influential musicians of our time. He is an extremely prolific artist who has explored many different kinds of music, including country, rock and folk. Often influenced by politics and current events, his passionate lyrics and unforgettable voice make this album one of my favorites. Favorite track(s) on the album: "Out on the Weekend", "Heart of Gold", and "Old Man"