Category Archives: Ideas

Tuning the focus inward: violinist Esther Yoo on performers facing their demons in a crisis

COVID-19 hurls the artist into the unknown. June is the time of year where I, like many, look back on everything I have accomplished over the last two quarters and…

Stage Makeup Essentials

I’ve been doing my own stage makeup for as long as I can remember – the routine of sitting down with my makeup and brushes prior to a concert is…

Mindful Art, Artful Mind

Keeping the love and inspiration alive is the essence of any form of art. Which makes it really tough and even frustrating to make music at the times when we’re…

Staying Ahead of Jet Lag

One of the questions I get asked most frequently is, “how do you deal with jet lag?!”   As a performing artist and avid traveller constantly crisscrossing multiple time zones,…

Esther in Writing: Phoenix Centre

I'm thinking about one of the most meaningful and rewarding projects I have done so far. Speaking up about mental health and joining the movement to remove the stigma around…

Who else got chills while listening to Oprah’s speech at the Golden Globes?!?   This part of the speech particularly resonated with me:   …”what I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have. And I’m especially proud and inspired by all the women who have felt strong enough and empowered enough to speak up and share their personal stories. Each of …

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Esther in Writing: To The Bone

Summer is a great time to take off from our busy work schedules, relax, reflect and learn. I have been enjoying some fantastic books and movies lately, one of which…

Esther in Writing: Hanging D

Witnessing pianist/composer Joep Beving performing "Hanging D” live at a Yellow Lounge in Amsterdam has left me feeling both nervous and exhilarated every time I listen to it. Nervous, because…