Alexandre Da Costa - Internationally Renowned Violinist And Conductor. Music Director - Longueuil Symphony. Artistic Director - Stradivaria Festival.

Dec 12

Episode Notes

Alexandre Da Costa is that rare classical musician - an internationally renowned violinist and conductor who does both at the same time. He’s performed over 2000 concerts in over 30 countries with a host of major orchestras. He is the Music Director of the Longueuil Symphony and the Artistic Director of the Stradivaria Festival. And he plays a 1727 Stradivarius violin. We talk about learning and practicing piano and violin as a youngster, what it’s like to play and conduct at the same time, the true role of a conductor in a symphony orchestra, and much more.

My featured song is “Ma Petite Fleur” from the Spring Dance album by my band, Project Grand Slam. Spotify link here.

“Dream With Robert Miller”. Click here.

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Alexandre and I discuss the following:

Starting on piano and violin
Practicing
Becoming a conductor
The role of a conductor

In the Songfest portion we play and discuss:

Pachobel
Amazing Grace
Show Must Go On

“Bobby M and the Paisley Parade” is Robert’s forthcoming album. Featuring 10 new songs and guest appearances by John Helliwell (Supertramp), Tony Carey (Rainbow) and Deobrat Mishra, international sitar sensation. The album has been called “Album Of The Year!” (Indie Shark), “One of the great rock sets of the year!” (Big Celebrity Buzz), and “An adventure that keeps us on the edge of our seats!” (Pop Icon). The album has been praised by famous musicians including Steve Hackett of Genesis, Gary Puckett of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary, Jim McCarty of The Yardbirds, and David Libert of The Happenings. The album will be released via Special Episodes of this podcast after the new year.

“Live At SteelStacks” is the new 5-song EP by Robert and his band, Project Grand Slam. The release captures the band at the top of their game and shows off the breadth, scope and sound of the band.

The EP has been highly praised by musicians and reviewers alike. Elliott Randall, of Steely Dan fame, the guitarist who recorded the unforgettable solos in ‘Reelin’ In The Years’, calls Live At SteelStacks “Captivating!”. Tony Carey, the incredible multi-talented artist who has produced Joe Cocker, Eric Burden and John Mayall, says “PGS burns down the house!”. Alan Hewitt of the Moody Blues says “Full of life!” Melody Maker says simply “Virtuoso musicians!”, and Hollywood Digest says “Such a great band!”.

“Live At SteelStacks” can be streamed on Spotify, Amazon, Apple and all the other streaming platforms, and can be downloaded at The PGS Store.

“All Of The Time” is Robert’s most recent single by his band Project Grand Slam. It’s a playful, whimsical love song. It’s light and airy and exudes the happiness and joy of being in love. The reviewers agree. Melody Maker gives it 5 Stars and calls it “Pure bliss…An intimate sound with abundant melodic riches!”. Pop Icon also gives it 5 Stars and calls it “Ecstasy…One of the best all-around bands working today!”. And Mob York City says simply “Excellence…A band in full command of their powers!” Watch the video here. You can stream “All Of The Time” on Spotify, Apple or any of the other streaming platforms. And you can download it here.

“The Shakespeare Concert” is the latest album by Robert’s band, Project Grand Slam. It’s been praised by famous musicians including Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad, Jim Peterik of the Ides Of March, Joey Dee of Peppermint Twist fame, legendary guitarist Elliott Randall, and celebrated British composer Sarah Class. The music reviewers have called it “Perfection!”, “5 Stars!”, “Thrilling!”, and “A Masterpiece!”. The album can be streamed on Spotify, Apple and all the other streaming services. You can watch the Highlight Reel HERE. And you can purchase a digital download or autographed CD of the album HERE.

“The Fall Of Winter” is Robert’s single in collaboration with legendary rocker Jim Peterik of the Ides Of March and formerly with Survivor. Also featuring renowned guitarist Elliott Randall (Steely Dan/Doobie Brothers) and keyboard ace Tony Carey (Joe Cocker/Eric Burden). “A triumph!” (The Indie Source). “Flexes Real Rock Muscle!” (Celebrity Zone). Stream it on Spotify or Apple. Watch the lyric video here. Download it here.

Robert’s “Follow Your Dream Handbook” is an Amazon #1 Bestseller. It’s a combination memoir of his unique musical journey and a step by step how-to follow and succeed at your dream. Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.