
Nancy Shear on Stokowski, Rostropovich, and "I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms"
From Conversations with Musicians, with Leah Roseman by Leah Roseman
May 14, 2026 · 1h 45m · Season 6 · Episode 15
About this episode
Leah Roseman interviews Nancy Shear about her memoir and experiences in classical music.
I was so honoured and delighted to have this opportunity to have this conversation with Nancy Shear, whose diverse career in classical music will fascinate you. I loved reading her memoir “I knew a man who knew Brahms” which is very much a book about appreciation for great music making as well as the importance of reflecting on the legacies our elders. You’ll hear about insights gleaned from her close releationships with many luminaries including Leopold Stokowski and Mstislav Rostropovich. Nancy was a troubled teenager when she began working as part of the Philadelphia orchestra library staff, and her brave determination, sensitivity and brilliance have led her to many unexpected opportunities. Whether or not you are currently a fan of classical music, I’m sure Nancy’s wisdom and storytelling will inspire you. We’re also including Nancy’s suggested listening links in the show notes, as well as other episodes you’ll enjoy. Complete show notes take you to: video, transcript, Nancy's website and listening suggestions, other episodes you'll enjoy, podcast newsletter sign-up, podcast merch store, podcast support page to buy this independent podcaster a coffee, and more! SHOW NOTES…
People in this episode
Host: Leah Roseman
Guest: Nancy Shear
Topics covered
- classical music
- memoir
- music legacy
- inspiration
- storytelling
Keywords
- classical music
- memoir
- Nancy Shear
- Leopold Stokowski
- Mstislav Rostropovich
- music legacy
- inspiration
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: I Knew a Man Who Knew Brahms
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