Impropod Podcast
Composer and producer Luke Tomlinson improvises on the piano creating a spontaneous soundtrack to guest’s stories and ideas. We explore the effect music has on the imagination, its psychology and its relationship to movement. A fun, unique and informative listen! Instagram @impropod visit impropod.com for more info and to explore the interactive podcast map!

About Luke
Luke Tomlinson is a composer and producer based in Bristol, UK. Improvisation has always played an important part in his music. He has a degree in film studies, from Falmouth University, and also composes music for Independent films. Luke has collaborated with composers and songwriters from all over world including Echofinch and YB the Prophet. He also plays in the Bristol based reggae band Mizizi and the soulful Hiphop outfit YoMojo.
Episodes

Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Ep26 Life ascension & the ice cave - Pete Taylor
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Pete Taylor, father of previous guests Ben and Alice Boyd Taylor, talks about how he is ascending from darker times in his life, and his adventure in the Himalayan mountains.
Pete shares his extensive background in health and social care, his journey through grief after his wife's late-stage cancer diagnosis, and his desire to pursue creative endeavors. The episode features a musical segment where Pete reflects on his emotions and recounts a transformative high-altitude trekking experience in the Himalayas. The discussion highlights the intersection of storytelling and music, emphasizing how personal narratives can be deeply expressed and interpreted through sound.
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Pete Taylor (00:00:06)Luke introduces Pete Taylor, highlighting his background in health and social care.
Burnout and Creative Pursuits (00:00:18)Pete discusses his burnout in social work and desire to pursue creativity.
Reflecting on Music (00:00:43)Luke plays music, prompting Pete to share his thoughts and feelings.
Journey of Emotions (00:01:54)Pete describes the emotional journey evoked by the music, mixing joy with trepidation.
Storytelling and Soundtrack (00:02:36)Luke invites Pete to share a story, which will be accompanied by a soundtrack.
Grief Journey Begins (00:02:45)Pete recounts the shock of his wife's late-stage cancer diagnosis and its impact.
Awakening and Change (00:03:41)He reflects on a conversation that sparked a realization of potential and opportunities.
Seasonal Transition (00:04:37)Pete connects the seasonal change to his personal transformation and potential for love.
Reflecting on Transitions (00:07:31)Discussion on how seasonal and life stage transitions evoke different emotions.
Trekking in the Himalayas (00:08:20)Pete shares his high-altitude trekking experience in the Himalayas from the mid-80s.
Lost in the Landscape (00:09:32)He describes the moment he realized he was lost on a glacier.
Decision-Making with the Pendulum (00:10:33)Pete explains using a pendulum to make a critical decision during his trek.
Survival in the Ice Cave (00:11:43)He recounts finding shelter in an ice cave during extreme conditions.
Music Interpretation of His Story (00:12:10)Luke discusses how to musically interpret the elements of Pete's story.
Personal Reflection on Storytelling (00:15:48)Pete shares his thoughts on the personal nature of storytelling and music.
Conclusion and Appreciation (00:18:20)Luke thanks Pete for his insights and invites listeners to join the next episode.
Keywords
Pete Taylor, health and social care, grief, late-stage cancer, creative pursuits, music, storytelling, personal narratives, high-altitude trekking, Himalayas, isolation, decision-making, survival, burnout, joy, transitions, emotions, cancer diagnosis, trauma, upheaval, catastrophic thinking, grief journey, life changes, seasonal transition, autumn, Halloween, Samhain, Celtic tradition, transformation, renewal, love, music creation, reflective tones, joyful sounds, Langtang Valley trek, glacier, decision-making, pendulum, survival experience, ice cave, rebirth, storytelling importance, unique communication, narrative expression. social healthcare langtang valley trek

Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Ep25 Sashimi Trouble 6s & 9s & the big break- Andy Hill
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Tuesday Oct 31, 2023
Journalist and musician Andy Hill, takes us on a journey to to China, with an embarrassing restaurant story! He also gives some insight into music harmony and tells a story about his 1st big break into journalism. Luke provides a spontaneous and improvised soundtrack.
The conversation delves into the emotional power of music and improvisation, with Andy reflecting on how music can evoke vivid memories. The episode offers a blend of storytelling, music, and insights into the creative process.
Introduction to Andy Hill (00:00:05)The host introduces Andy Hill, a journalist and musician, and discusses his writing.
Writing for Magazines (00:00:15)Andy shares his work for various magazines, including Virgin Atlantic's in-flight magazine.
Music Reflection (00:02:16)Andy reflects on a piece of music, associating it with city skylines and George Gershwin.
Storytelling Prompt (00:03:03)The host invites Andy to tell a story for an improvised soundtrack.
Traveling in China (00:03:36)Andy recounts a memorable trip to China with his girlfriend, exploring cultural contrasts.
Dining Experience (00:04:00)He describes an indulgent dining experience at a sashimi restaurant in Chongqing.
The Glass Incident (00:04:42)Andy humorously recalls a mishap where he shattered a glass, causing chaos at the restaurant.
Reflection on Embarrassment (00:05:43)He reflects on the embarrassment of the incident and his girlfriend's reaction.
Breaking Down the Story (00:06:15)The host summarizes the story's key moments, including contrasts and chaos.
Patterns in Music (00:08:24)Andy discusses the importance of patterns in music and how they engage listeners.
Music and Experience Connection (00:09:40)They explore how the music played relates to Andy's experiences in China.
Journalism Breakthrough (00:10:09)Andy shares his journey to securing an internship at Time Out magazine.
Call Centre Job (00:12:23)He describes his intense experience working at a charity fundraising call center.
Walking Home (00:12:53)Andy recounts the euphoric feeling walking home after getting the internship.
Music and Architecture (00:15:43)He connects music improvisation to the architectural style of North London.
Major Tonality Discussion (00:16:00)Andy discusses the challenges of creating positive music in major tonality.
Musical Influences (00:16:51)He reflects on the influence of early 20th-century music styles on his work.
Podcast Experience (00:17:48)Andy appreciates the podcast's exploration of music and improvisation.
Upcoming Event Promotion (00:18:19)He promotes an upcoming pub singalong event he is hosting on November 18th.
Keywords
Andy Hill, journalist, musician, travel stories, China, Virgin Atlantic, in-flight magazine, ghostwriting, motivational speeches, music, improvisation, George Gershwin, Rhapsody in Blue, New York City, storytelling, Chongqing, sashimi restaurant, dining experience, humor, emotions, musical patterns, career breakthrough, Time Out magazine, charity fundraising, North London, call center experience, architectural beauty, minor keys, pub singalong, audience participation, creativity, storytelling, joy of music.

Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Ep24 Storm on a square rigger, Egypt & percussion - Jon Inder
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Tuesday Oct 24, 2023
Percussionist Jon Inder recounts a tale about his exhilaration of being in a storm on a square sailed ship the TS Royalist as a child, as well as an Egyptian story about sailing down the Nile on a felucca involving unwell stargazing. All with a unique improvised soundtrack of course!
Here are the extracted timestamps and their titles in chronological order:
Introduction to Jon Inder (00:00:05)Jon Inder is introduced as a nutritional advisor, musicologist, and member of the band The Bridge.
Improvised Music Reflection (00:02:12)Jon shares thoughts on a piece of improvised music, noting a breakthrough moment.
Story of a Storm at Sea (00:03:18)Jon recounts his experience on a square-rigged ship during a storm, highlighting vivid imagery.
Emotional Clarity After the Storm (00:08:13)Discussion on the calmness and clarity felt after the storm subsided, reflecting on the experience.
Sailing on the Nile (00:10:10)Jon shares memories of sailing on a felucca down the Nile, combining beauty and discomfort.
The Importance of the Nile (00:12:00)Explores the significance of rivers in human culture and their role in agriculture and civilization.
Musical Interpretation of Stars (00:15:30)Jon describes the contrast between the beauty of the stars and his discomfort from illness.
Presence of the Ancient (00:17:38)Discussion on the connection to ancient cultures and the continuity of human history through art.
Creative Interpretation of Memories (00:18:31)Jon reflects on how memories inspire musical creativity and the emotional weight of storytelling.
Closing Remarks (00:20:24)The podcast concludes with thanks and a teaser for the next episode, featuring improvised music.
Keywords
nutritional advisor, musicologist, singer-songwriter, percussionist, Green Life, Totnes, The Bridge, music, improvisation, personal storytelling, square-rigged ship, storm, sailing, felucca, Nile, Egypt, Sea Cadets, R.T.S. Royalist, Portsmouth, Alderney, Channel Islands, nature, illuminated waves, hot chocolate, rhythm of waves, morning light, beauty, painted buildings, desert, shooting stars, Nile water, musical interpretation, emotional weight, piano, expressive instrument, megalithic structures, human culture, continuity of history, creative process, percussion instruments, storytelling, memories, inspiration.

Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Ep23 Key-lime K-Hole - Craig Reeson
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Chef Craig Reeson of Rumor in Totnes tells an intense story about using ketamine, Luke Improvises to a delicious key-lime recipe, and to Craig's emotional journey of becoming a father!
This episode explores the intersection of cooking, music, and personal storytelling, highlighting themes of creativity, parenthood, and the emotional power of sound.
[object Object]Welcome and Introduction (00:00:05)Craig Robinson introduces himself as a chef and shares his culinary background.
Favorite Dish: Key Lime Pie (00:00:49)Craig describes his love for desserts, especially key lime pie, and its delicious components.
Musical Interpretation Experiment (00:02:07)The host introduces an experiment combining music with cooking and storytelling.
Visualizing Music: A Cave Escape (00:03:07)Craig shares a vivid visual experience inspired by the music, depicting escape from entrapment.
Musical Moments: Light Breaking Through (00:04:30)Craig reflects on the transition from fog to light, representing clarity and freedom.
Story of Past Drug Experience (00:05:04)Craig recounts a surreal experience with ketamine in his early 20s, emphasizing its effects.
Sound and Visuals: A Pinhole Camera (00:07:34)He describes the experience of sound and vision collapsing into a single point.
Experience of Returning to Reality (00:07:41)Craig shares the moment of returning to his body, feeling a reconnection with reality.
Musical Reflection on the Experience (00:10:39)Craig discusses the beauty of the musical interpretation of his drug experience.
Announcement of Parenthood (00:11:48)Craig shares the joyful news of becoming a father and the emotions surrounding it.
Musical Representation of Parenthood (00:13:27)The host plans a musical piece reflecting the excitement and anxiety of impending fatherhood.
Emotional Resonance in Music (00:15:43)Craig expresses how the music captures the emotions of waiting and joy.
Closing Thoughts on the Experiment (00:16:42)Craig reflects on how music evokes memories and emotions, creating a lasting impact.
Final Remarks and Gratitude (00:19:08)Craig thanks the host for the experience, highlighting the significance of the music created.
Keywords
Impro Pod podcast, Craig Robinson, chef, Ruma, Totnes, culinary experiences, desserts, key lime pie, cooking, personal storytelling, music, emotional responses, creativity, parenthood, culinary journey, biscuit base, creamy filling, citrus notes, experimenting with flavors, innovative experiment, musical interpretation, emotional resonance, sound and memory, ketamine, altered perception, surreal experience, visual journey, sound and emotion, becoming a father, anticipation, responsibilities of parenthood, transcendental nature of music, creative process, improvisation, storytelling, human experience.

Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Ep22 Growing up and the Anatomy of music - Rowland O’Conner
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Sorting Room Studios Sound engineer, guitarist and fund raider for Greenpeace talks about his relationship with music and tells stories about the environmental paradox and growing up.
Roland shares his experiences with jam nights at the Barrelhouse in Totnes, emphasizing the spontaneity and emotional connections in music. They discuss the balance between thought and instinct in the creative process, with Roland improvising music based on personal stories and emotions. Themes such as the juxtaposition of childhood and adulthood, environmental responsibility, and the paradox of enjoying life while being mindful of its impact are explored. The episode highlights the dynamic interplay between structured knowledge and creative freedom in music.
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Introduction to Improvisation (00:00:05)Roland shares his relationship with improvisation and the significance of spontaneity in music.
The Jam Night Experience (00:00:14)Discussion about the origins and evolution of the big water jam night in London.
Emotional Responses to Music (00:02:09)Roland reflects on how music evokes feelings of dread and emotional journeys.
Visual Imagery in Music (00:02:47)Exploration of how music connects with visual imagery and personal memories.
Storytelling through Music (00:03:51)Roland narrates a childhood story about friendship and playful destruction.
Juxtaposition of Age and Maturity (00:04:54)Discussion on how age is represented in music, balancing youth and maturity.
The Complexity of Growing Up (00:07:25)Exploration of the contrast between childhood innocence and adult responsibilities.
Emotional Paradoxes in Life (00:09:55)Roland discusses the emotional struggle between responsibility and personal well-being.
Musical Process and Clarity (00:12:35)The host and Roland discuss the thought process behind creating music.
Balancing Thought and Spontaneity (00:15:48)The challenge of balancing conscious thought and natural flow in music creation.
Nature as Musical Inspiration (00:16:02)Roland describes how nature influences his music and emotional expression.
Conclusion and Reflection (00:16:44)Roland expresses gratitude for the conversation and shares his positive experience.
Keywords
improvisation, music, Improv Pod podcast, Roland O'Connor, jam nights, creativity, emotional connections, childhood, adulthood, environmental issues, creative process, imagery, emotions, spontaneity, Big Water Jam, London, jazz chords, Rhapsody in Blue, music visualization, subconscious thoughts, storytelling, age, maturity, nursery rhyme, Mozart, climate crisis, Greenpeace, consumerist culture, balancing act, fulfilling life, nature, guitar improvisation, melodic ideas, major and minor chords, mental discipline, musical elements, jazz progressions, feelings, emotions, tranquil forest, podcast conversation, creative fields.

Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Ep21 Pink Dolphins & Divorce! - Jack Judd
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Carpenter & musician Jack Judd tell of his adventures in the amazon and goes a musical and emotional journey revisiting his parents divorce!
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Jack shares vivid personal experiences, including a transformative trip to the Amazon where he swam with pink dolphins, and reflects on his childhood, particularly the emotional impact of his parents' separation. Through musical prompts, Jack delves into the therapeutic potential of improvisation, illustrating how music can evoke deep emotions and memories, ultimately highlighting the profound connections between creativity, emotion, and healing.
[object Object]Introduction to the Episode (00:00:05)The host welcomes Jack Judd, introducing him as a carpenter and musician.
Jack's Current Work (00:00:15)Jack discusses his work on restoring old windows and painting.
Music Prompt for Improvisation (00:00:24)The host plays music and asks Jack to share his thoughts and emotions.
Jack's Musical Experience (00:01:44)Jack describes his feelings of swimming in the sea and the music's hypnotic qualities.
Film Reference (00:02:24)The host relates Jack's experience to a scene from the film "Passengers."
Jack's Amazon Adventure (00:03:04)Jack recounts a memorable trip to the Amazon, including piranha fishing and swimming with pink dolphins.
Mixed Emotions with Dolphins (00:04:42)Jack shares the joy and fear he felt swimming with dolphins in the Amazon.
Sensory Experience of the Amazon (00:05:22)Jack describes the rich sensory experiences and colors of the Amazon rainforest.
Bus Journey to the Amazon (00:05:54)Jack reflects on the long, uncomfortable bus ride to the Amazon, filled with various passengers.
Reflection on Storytelling and Music (00:08:43)Jack connects the improvisational music to his journey and experiences in the Amazon.
Dolphin Encounter Details (00:09:18)Jack elaborates on the murky waters and the sensation of dolphins brushing against him.
School Memories (00:10:09)Jack shares a story about his parents' separation and its impact on his school experience.
Emotional Impact of Music (00:15:07)Jack discusses the therapeutic potential of improvisational music for processing emotions.
Improv and Personal Soundtrack (00:15:40)Jack reflects on how music captures his memories and emotions connected to his school experience.
Parent-Child Dynamics (00:16:49)The host suggests playing the music for Jack's parents, prompting reflection on family dynamics.
Unexpected Insights from the Podcast (00:17:00)Jack expresses surprise at the emotional depth explored during the podcast.
Jack's Relationship with Improvisation (00:18:19)Jack shares how his guitar explorations are influenced by his feelings and experiences.
Conduit of Music (00:18:58)Jack describes the feeling of channeling music rather than consciously creating it.
Closing Remarks (00:19:39)The host thanks Jack for joining the podcast, inviting listeners to tune in next week.
Keywords
Jack Judd, carpenter, musician, improvisation, music, storytelling, personal experiences, Amazon, pink dolphins, childhood, parents' separation, memory, emotion, therapeutic potential, artistic endeavors, emotional landscapes, sound, chaos, swimming pool, South America, Bolivia, bus ride, fear, joy, nature, sensory richness, adventure, camaraderie, soundscape, childhood memories, emotional struggles, vulnerability, creativity, guitar, spontaneous nature, artistic expression, therapeutic exploration, sharing stories. improv jazz piano

Monday Sep 25, 2023
Ep20 Discombobulation and Mind Clarity - Ruthie Oldershaw
Monday Sep 25, 2023
Monday Sep 25, 2023
Ruthie tells tales of getting lost on Dartmoor, Luke improvises to different states of Ruthie's Mind!
The discussion delves into themes of anxiety, the chaotic nature of life, and the emotional toll of night shifts in Northhampton hospital. The episode underscores the powerful connection between music and personal experiences, highlighting music's ability to express complex emotions.
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[object Object]Introduction to Ruth (00:00:05)Ruth introduces herself and her connection to the podcast.
Music Reflection (00:00:25)Ruth shares her emotional responses to a piece of music played by the host.
Dancing Memories (00:01:52)Ruth discusses her background in ballet and how music evokes dance imagery.
Getting Lost on Dartmoor (00:02:56)Ruth recounts a memorable experience of getting lost while running on Dartmoor.
Anxiety and Stress (00:07:47)Ruth reflects on the anxiety and stress she felt during her night shifts.
Emotional Impact of Night Shifts (00:15:58)Ruth describes the emotional roller coaster of working night shifts in a hospital.
Discombobulation (00:17:24)Ruth talks about feeling discombobulated after night shifts, losing track of time.
Music and Self-Awareness (00:20:04)Ruth discusses how music helps her reflect on her busy mind and emotional state.
Conclusion (00:21:27)The host thanks Ruth for her participation, concluding the episode.
keywords
dance, student midwife, emotions, personal experiences, anxiety, chaotic life, night shifts, hospital setting, Dartmoor, childhood experiences, ballet, choreography, imagination, running, COVID-19 pandemic, stress, determination, beauty of Dartmoor, emotional rollercoaster, maternity ward, energy, stimulation, self-awareness, clarity, improvisation, range of feelings, mental state, personal anecdotes, community connection, Devon, reflective music, emotional impact, navigating challenges, expressive music, lighthearted demeanor, embracing emotions.

Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
Ep19 Embracing Ambiguity - Julian Marshall
Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
Tuesday Sep 19, 2023
Luke talks to renowned composer, songwriter, teacher & musician, Julian Marshall about his composition process, the benefits of not trying to control your own life. Julian gives some great musical insight and tells some interesting stories.
Julian delves into his extensive musical career, from his classical training at the Royal College of Music to his experiences in various bands and his transition into teaching and composing. He shares personal stories, including a pivotal moment in 1981 when he faced uncertainty after leaving a successful band Marshall Hain. The discussion explores themes of vulnerability, confidence, and creativity, highlighting the emotional and artistic aspects of music. Julian also talks about his recent projects and the influence of poetry on his work.
Other previous bands: The Flying Lizards and Eye to Eye
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Introduction to Julien Marshall (00:00:05)Julien Marshall introduces himself as a musician with a long and varied career.
Classical Training and Early Career (00:00:15)Julien discusses his classical training at the Royal College of Music and early band experiences.
Teaching and Composition Transition (00:01:03)He shares his transition from performing to teaching and composing, focusing on classical compositions.
Emotional Response to Music (00:02:52)Julien reflects on the emotional qualities of music, emphasizing tenderness and vulnerability.
Confidence and Vulnerability (00:03:35)He explores the relationship between confidence and vulnerability in creative expression.
Story from 1981 (00:04:51)Julien recounts a pivotal moment in 1981 after leaving his band and feeling lost.
Unexpected Opportunities (00:05:42)A chance encounter leads to a collaboration that ultimately connects him with Warner Brothers.
Challenges of Success (00:07:36)He discusses the challenges faced after signing with Warner Brothers and working with Gary Katz.
The Role of Chance in Creativity (00:08:04)Julien reflects on how unexpected events can lead to beautiful outcomes in music.
Creative Transformation (00:08:41)He describes the transformative experience of creative encounters and their impact on his journey.
Exploring Uncertainty in Composition (00:11:12)Julien discusses the concept of uncertainty in music composition and its importance.
Splurge and Craft Approach (00:12:01)He introduces his method of composing, combining spontaneous creation with structured crafting.
Integration of Brain Functions (00:13:06)Julien references Ian Gilchrist's work on how different brain functions contribute to creativity.
Collaborations Inspired by Poetry (00:15:52)He shares his recent projects inspired by the poetry of Gertrude Coleman.
New Directions in Music (00:17:43)Julien expresses a renewed interest in jazz and the influence of past experiences on his current work.
Reflection on the Podcast Experience (00:18:25)Julien shares his enjoyment of discussing music and spontaneous creativity during the podcast.
Keywords
composer, songwriter, music career, classical training, band experiences, teaching, composing, songwriting, emotional aspects of music, creative expression, vulnerability, confidence, improvisation, music composition, Royal College of Music, Marshall band, Flying Lizards, Deborah Berg, mentoring, public performances, uncertainty in creativity, splurge and craft method, Dr. Iain McGilchrist, brain hemispheres, intuitive creativity, structured experiences, Gertrude Coleman, jazz roots, musical settings, spontaneous musical expression, connection in music, artistic journey.