In this episode, I talk with legendary timpanist, educator, and musical pioneer Jonathan Haas. Jonathan’s journey weaves together St. Louis, Chicago, New York, Juilliard, Frank Zappa, Emerson Lake & Palmer, Philip Glass, and a powerful new project responding to the world we live in today.
Jonathan tells the story of how a newspaper clipping from his mom led him to Washington University, where he studied with Rich O’Donnell, John Kasica, Tom Stubbs, and Rick Holmes—often taking four private lessons a week while subbing with the St. Louis Symphony.
From there, he describes:
- Heading to Juilliard to study with Saul Goodman
- Subbing with the New York Philharmonic
- Auditioning for and touring with Emerson, Lake & Palmer (including opening Bolero in front of 50,000 people at Soldier Field!)
- A 20-year relationship and collaboration with Frank Zappa, sparked by a handwritten letter
- The long road to commissioning the Philip Glass Double Timpani Concerto and why it had to become a double concerto
- His work at NYU, including powerful new pieces by Lenny White and Tim Adams, connected to Black Lives Matter and the murder of George Floyd
Jonathan is a phenomenal storyteller, and the combination of history, humor, honesty, and perspective makes this one of the most compelling conversations I’ve had.
Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
What is The Bandwich Tapes?
The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast where host Brad Williams sits down with musicians for thoughtful conversations about the craft of making music.
Each episode explores the experiences, influences, and creative decisions that shape an artist’s work. From improvisation and songwriting to collaboration, recording, and life on the road, the conversations go beyond biography to focus on how music actually gets made.
Guests include instrumentalists, composers, songwriters, and producers from across the musical landscape. The tone is relaxed, curious, and musician-to-musician—an opportunity to hear artists reflect on their process, their collaborators, and the musical moments that have stayed with them.
Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.