There’s something so mysterious about music. It can shift our mood, connect us with other people, or help us experience God. For years, I have been enamored with the power and mystery of music. And that is why I am thrilled about today’s interview. Chenoa Murphy started the violin at age 3 and was trained in and completed the Suzuki Violin method. Simply put, she has been immersed in the art and beauty of music throughout her lifetime.

She has achieved both her Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Violin Performance from the University of Cincinnati’s Conservatory of Music, as well as her Doctoral studies from the University of Iowa. She has taught violin and viola and is a member of several symphony orchestras in her area. Her opinions on race can be found on CNN, NPR Illinois, and Huffington Post. Chenoa is married to the love of her life, Victor of Glasgow, Scotland, and is the mother of two, and bonus mother of four. She also hosts her own podcast, entitled “Black, White & In Color.”

In our time together, we talk about what it was like growing up immersed in classical and Gospel music, why black representation in classical music matters, and why she believes authenticity is cornerstone to embodying true beauty.