Music Movie Series: WHIPLASH, MR. HOLLAND'S OPUS, and the music mentors in our lives

Michael Dunn (Lindsey's dad) with his Crooked Creek Crickets

This podcast is just my tempo. Steve, Lindsey, and special guest, Heather Barnes (Steve’s wife) discuss the behavior and teaching techniques of two cinematic music teachers, Fletcher from WHIPLASH and Mr. Holland from MR. HOLLAND'S OPUS. As fellow children of musicians, Lindsey and Heather share their experience growing up having a father who wanted to encourage true excellence from their students. Steve also talks about his mentors and how they shaped him. And we all think about what it really takes to encourage greatness as a mentor/teacher.

We also talk about the unique stories these teachers spout to motivate their students. Sometimes, these same stories serve as sometimes ugly mirrors to their true, flawed philosophies. Expect the same search for truth served with bountiful doses of vulnerability and humor. It’s what you can always expect from 1 of my Stories.

J.K. Simmons as FLETCHER in WHIPLASH

The music in this episode is an original composition by Michael Dunn (Lindsey’s dad), and performed live by the grades 4-5 students of the Crooked Creek Crickets on May 14, 1969.

Richard Dreyfuss as MR. HOLLAND, Alicia Witt as GERTRUDE in MR. HOLLAND'S OPUS