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Story & Lesson Highlights with Matthew Dirst of downtown

Matthew Dirst shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Matthew, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Listening to great music, reading an engaging novel.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a musician and scholar who specializes in music of the 17th and 18th centuries. My period-instrument ensemble Ars Lyrica Houston offers an annual subscription series of programs that range from chamber music to opera, featuring international and local talent and a wide range of repertoire. We have made numerous recordings and have been recognized with a Grammy nomination for Best Opera.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
lack of trust and empathy

the restoration of both

When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
nurturing and loving parents

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That fame = talent

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
What I was born to do. Being told what to do has rarely resonated well with me.

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