“Do not expect perfection.
If you want perfection, go to a recording studio. It's very easy to do if your goal is a perfect performance.
But it's going to be so sterile and boring.”
04. Jump and the Net Will Appear
Lisa Ann Marsh
Lisa Ann Marsh, a Cascadia Composers member and Burn After Listening cofounder, draws on nature, the supernatural, human emotion, and collaborators. Her chamber and choral works have been performed by Northwest Piano Trio, The Ensemble, The Mousai, Choral Arts Ensemble, Portland State University Chamber Choir, and The Resonance Ensemble.
She performs in the Marsh-Titterington Piano Duo, is former Principal Keyboard of the Columbia Symphony Orchestra, and teaches piano while directing Portland State University's wellness program for musicians.
Episode Themes:
Creative calling and lifelong identity – Lisa frames music as a calling rather than a choice — something that stays with you and shapes life decisions (e.g., starting music early, returning to composition).
Integration of disciplines (nursing & music) – Her nursing background directly informed her work helping injured musicians, showing how diverse skills can fuse into a unique practice.
Musicians’ wellness & Body Mapping – Body mapping and anatomy education as core tools for preventing and healing injury — correcting mental “maps” to change movement and reduce pain.
Prioritizing spirit over ego – Prioritizing a larger, compassionate purpose over self-centered perfection — fostering flow in composition, practice, and performance.
Resources:
Get in touch with Lisa: lisaannmarsh.com
Lisa's book: Coordinate Movement for Pianists
Find Lisa's original music here: Spotify
Questions for Artists:
When preparing for a performance, what is one perfection-seeking habit could I let go of today?
When I create or perform, what part feels like expression of my deepest self (not ego)?
Which simple daily ritual could help me honor mind, body, and spirit before practicing or performing?
Want to dive deeper into your own personal artistry?
Click here for the downloadable journal prompt