Putting the creative process in the spotlight

Melbourne-based composer and educator Adam Starr is launching a new podcast series that takes listeners inside the creative process and behind the finished product.

Juo Collab, which drops its first episode today (March 31), pairs Starr with a guest Jewish artist each series to create original work together in real time. The result is something closer to a documented collaboration than a traditional interview format, capturing false starts, unexpected ideas, and the unscripted moments that rarely make it into a final performance.

“Most people only ever see the final product,” Starr said. “Juo Collab is about revealing what actually happens in the room — the uncertainty, the conversation, and the moments where something unexpected takes shape.”

Starr, who holds a PhD in music composition and has composed for both film and live performance, said the idea grew out of a longstanding interest in creativity and collaboration, as well as a desire to focus specifically on Jewish artists.

“In the current environment, I felt more interested and passionate in focusing on Jewish creatives,” Starr told The AJN, saying his aim to to shine a light on Jewish creatives, particularly those he’d like to collaborate with. “I find the acts of creativity and collaboration really interesting. I have thought about interviewing creatives for a while.”