Evan Hart

My guest today on The Born To Talk Radio Show Podcast is Evan Hart.  Evan is a music teacher and Handbell Choir director at Highland Hall Waldorf School in Northridge, CA. He is a composer, also a founding member of an Alternative LA Rock Band, Stage 11.

Meet Evan.

Born into a musical family, Evan began playing drums at age five and was soon gigging with his father in the Santa Barbara area. As a teenager, he formed a rock band with friends and performed original music at venues across California’s Central Coast. Evan is a founding member of the alt-rock band STAGE 11 and currently performs in three additional bands. He has also played in the pit for numerous musicals and contributed his skills as a session drummer, film composer, and audio engineer.  Evan brings over 30 years of experience in music, drumming, and percussion to his teaching. In doing so, he helps students discover how fun and expressive playing music can be. His students learn the basics of Western music theory while also developing active listening and collaboration skills.

Handbell Choir Director.

In Evan’s middle school and high school classes, students who often have no experience playing music learn the fundamentals; melody, harmony, rhythm, and especially teamwork. He brings over 30 years of experience in music, drumming, and percussion to his teaching, helping students discover how fun and expressive playing music can be. His students learn the basics of Western music theory while also developing active listening and collaboration skills.

Evan’s Takeaways.

“Music and sound designs are forms of storytelling. As a composer, I don’t have to be a wordsmith to contribute meaningfully to a story. And if a composer or sound designer has done their job well, most people won’t necessarily notice because they will be so enveloped by the story. I encourage people every once in a while to mindfully notice the music in movies, TV shows, and video games. Listen to how it builds tension, punctuates the moment, and brings the story to life. As a teacher, I encourage people who have trouble expressing themselves in words to try music. You don’t need to start with an expensive instrument or formal lessons, although that can help later on. Play around with any instrument you can get your hands on, stay curious and explore. You might surprise yourself.”

In Closing.

Evan’s inspiration comes from a lifetime surrounded by music—classic rock, Motown, funk, R&B, jazz, breakbeats, and classical—often making music alongside his father. From an early age, music was an essential language for expression. Today, he thrives in exploring deep grooves and experimental sounds, always seeking new