We recently connected with Natalie Feldpausch and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Natalie, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I am a musician, specifically an oboist. Whenever I say this, I feel the need to justify what I do or defend the art that I have chosen to practice (mainly to myself). This career insecurity produces fears that anyone can face in their jobs: imposter syndrome, inadequacy, failure to succeed financially… that kind of stuff. These worries plagued me for many years and still linger occasionally. However, instead of constantly driving myself to fulfill some unwritten rule for what a successful person should be, I focus on making my music more enjoyable for myself and everyone I encounter. This underlying desire to spread joy gives my music purpose and allows me room to breathe. I prioritize rest and balance in my life whenever possible because a burned-out version of me is not pleasant for anyone involved. However, I do love to stretch my technical and lyrical abilities to their limits to learn new ways of bringing myself and others joy through my music.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am pursuing a career in music performance, which provides me with a wide range of opportunities! I specialize in oboe, and everyday that I get to play or learn more about my instrument, the more grateful I am to be a musician. For income, I currently play in the West Michigan Symphony, and substitute for several lovely symphonies and bands throughout Michigan. I also teach younger students on occasion, and sell oboe reeds to schools and oboists throughout mid-Michigan. The next step in my journey is beginning my master’s degree at the University of Michigan this fall, where I am excited to gain more experiences and connections in my field.
Something I am passionate about is generating more awareness for works by under-represented composers. The best way to generate awareness for lesser known music is to give it an audience, either by sharing it on social media, personally telling your friends about it, or performing the works in recitals or concerts. I also enjoy being a part of commissions for new composers. This process typically involves a group of musicians working with a composer they want to support by paying them to write a piece of music; then that group will often have the opportunity to premier that work for new audiences. Premiering new music, and working with composers who deserve greater recognition is a major part of what drives me to continue pouring time into my musical career.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Patience was a crucial element in my early musical journey. When I started playing the oboe, one of my family members thought there was a car horn honking outside. It was just me trying to squeak out my first notes. Thankfully, I have improved over the years, but it took patience and a lot of practice. Especially as a perfectionist, it is essential to give yourself grace as you make mistakes while learning a new craft. Something that has helped me relax and loosen up over the years was actually advice one of my sisters gave me… she said that “even a seventy-five percent performance is an excellent performance.” Seventy-five percent may sound disappointing or inadequate, but I have never heard a perfect performance; I would argue it is borderline impossible. When you allow yourself to be human and make mistakes, it is so much easier to get out of your head and deliver a convincing concert or recital for your audience.
Another thing that has helped me over the years is the ability to bounce back after a break. I typically take some time off from heavy-duty practicing after a long concert season. I also enjoy going on long camping trips or hiking adventures that are not always instrument-friendly. During these breaks, I allow myself to be guilt-free; otherwise, the break is less mentally beneficial if I constantly beat myself up for taking the time off. The most important thing is to properly resume your practice schedule once you come out of a break; for me, this means going back to the basics, playing more fundamentals, and focusing on my technique.
Lastly, I have always loved to collaborate with other musicians or artists throughout my journey. This quality helped me immensely because music is an art that thrives in community. Whether playing with your family and friends or in a band or symphony, there are many benefits to your musical skills. Sure, you can always improve as a musician in a practice room or the comfort of your own home… but something magical happens when you can perform and practice music in a group setting. Especially in my experience playing in professional settings, my musicality has been tested in more ways than I could have dreamed. I advise any musicians looking to improve their artistry to join a local group, or if there is not one in your area… form one! Even if you do not play for an audience, the reward of creating music with other people is well worth it.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I assess the active stressors in my life. If it is something I can control or alleviate, I will do that to the best of my ability. However, if it is out of my control and I need to be more adaptable, I will revisit my schedule and my time management to handle the situation better. Usually, I am just spending too much time mindlessly practicing my instrument and I need to step away. My favorite thing to do when this happens is to spend some time using my creativity in other areas of life; then, I feel more prepared to mentally focus on my music. I enjoy painting, drawing, reading, hiking… anything that keeps my brain active while allowing me to take time away from my main instrument.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @natfeldpausch_music
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@natfeldpausch
Image Credits
Bill Ryan (main portfolio shot)
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