In the social media age, the life of a classical musician can appear glamorous — a steady stream of concerts across the globe, album releases, residencies, and black-tie receptions. 

But what are the ups and downs we don't see once the cameras are gone? And what roles can wellness and community play in the life of a performing artist today? 

Author Rebecca Fischer — who for 18 years performed as first violinist in the Chiara String Quartet — explores those questions and more in her new book, The Sound of Memory: Themes from a Violinist's Life.

"I'm hoping to share a really honest account of what a musician's life is like from the inside," Rebecca explains on the latest episode of the Classical Post Podcast. "I really wanted to expose my own vulnerabilities — as a human, as a mother, as a woman — and invite others to celebrate their own vulnerabilities."

A collection of essays written over two and a half years, The Sound of Memory sees Rebecca meditating on the life of a performing artist in the 21st century, growing up in a musical family, and how she balances wellness with the anxieties — and joys — that go into maintaining a classical performance career.

In this conversation, we discuss Rebecca's book, why her definition of "success" is always evolving, and get a host of great recommendations for places to eat, drink, and enjoy life in New York City. 

She shares why she heads to the Bronx when it's time to enjoy a beer but stays in her Manhattan neighborhood for the perfect Negroni, as well as the German chocolate her family can't live without — and the importance of spontaneous living-room dance parties.

Grab your copy of Rebecca's book on Bookshop.org.

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