We’re back! In this episode we talk with the recently unmasked Monochrome Viola, Lauren Spaulding! Lauren is an avid chamber musician, performing with her viola duo Talla Rouge and the acclaimed Thalea Quartet which is currently in residence at the University of Maryland. She is very forthcoming about her challenges in early music education and how it took a while to find the path that really spoke to her unique qualities as a performer. We talk about her notorious alter-ego, Monochrome Viola, and how social media became a tool not only to connect, but to keep herself honest with her practice routine. She’s always chasing the joy and the ‘good bop’ and if you’re not already a fan, we’re pretty sure you’ll fall in love with our new bff Lauren!NEW THIS SEASON: Get a 10% discount on The ArcRest! Just mention the code “VIOLACENTRIC” at checkout!www.thearcrest.comWe have a Patreon! Support us and get perks and bonus content!www.patreon.com/violacentricMentioned in this episode:Talla Rougewww.tallarouge.comThalea String Quartetwww.thaleastringquartet.comOur sponsors:Aria Lightswww.arialights.comArc Restwww.thearcrest.comPotter Violinswww.potterviolins.comSupport the Show.Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!