Carter Dewberry

One of the things I appreciate about being a cellist is that I have an empowering way to respond to difficult times in my...

Today is the official start date of my next big project, the Cellolympics. In order to see how to best articulate the purpose behind this new project, I decided to write a series of articles reflecting on my past creative endeavors. I will begin with The Definiens Project. I created the Definiens Project, a non-profit chamber music organization, while in graduate school at UCLA. The idea for this project came suddenly one spring day while ...

Re “Relaxing into the Process”

I have been trying to record a track for a client for a week now.  I have been in the midst of trying new setups to maximize my cello’s sound.  I thought I had everything in place, but when I went to record, I was wrong.

I finally can admit that I was spoiled. In the past, I used the Logic recording software to compose. Part of Logic’s beauty is that it comes with a huge selection of pre-recorded rhythm/drum tracks. All I have to do is drag and drop the tracks into my piece, and viola. “I got rhythm.”

Sometimes when I am in the middle of a challenging situation, it is difficult for me to talk about it. I find when I share that I project an energy (whether that be fear, anger, or something else) I do not want to perpetuate.

At the Santa Barbara half-marathon expo over the weekend, they offered a special device that would allow me to track my pace by the mile. I declined to purchase. On my way to the race start, a fellow runner mentioned her interval-ready running watch. I responded while laughing that I had forgotten my sports watch.

I enjoy finding new ways to inspire my students. One of the best is to offer them opportunities to share their musical expression with appreciative audiences in a positive environment.

Sometimes I get so involved in implementing an idea, I forget to keep looking at whether the idea itself makes sense.

I grew up winning first chair in nearly all my orchestra auditions and placing in competitions. When I decided to go into music, I was readily accepted into music school. Until, that is, I failed my theory entrance exam.