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HearTOGETHER Podcast

"Mennonites love music" with Theo Baer (aka iT Boy)

First aired January 6, 2023

24:22

Theo Baer aka iT Boy is a Brooklyn-based composer of music that has, at various times, been described as  "experimental," "thoughtful," and "cosmic." In this discussion with host Khadija Mbowe, Theo reflects on the influences that brought him here; starting with a childhood growing up as the adopted child of Mennonite missionaries, walking a tightrope between his prodigious musical gifts and the persistence of low expectations— all the while navigating an evolving queer identity.  

Chapters

[2:04] The inextricability of music to Theo's identity   
[3:56] The good and bad of working with(in) musical institutions
[5:18] Ever-unfolding lessons of queerness
[8:48] Making music for magical moments
[10:56] Mennonites and musical influences
[12:19] On "radicalizing" his parents
[16:09] The catharsis of vulnerability 
[18:13] What success looks like today 

 Music from this episode

  • Theo Baer aka iT Boy ft. Zachary Paul, Deities, from The Nail House
  • Theo Baer aka iT Boy, Tempting (for Richard Maxfield) , from Euphoric Recall
  • Theo Baer aka iT Boy, Habits, from Euphoric Recall
  • Theo Baer aka iT Boy, Lodge

 

The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts’s HearTOGETHER podcast is generously supported by lead corporate sponsor Accordant Advisors. Additional major support has been provided by the Otto Haas Charitable Trust.