Letting the Story Lead the Music with Nicolás Lell Benavides

Plus: Staying Curious in the Craft of Hairstyling on a new micro/Maker

Author

Tyler Kline
July 25, 2025

🍃 Loose Leaf Transmissions – Weekly Dispatch

On the newest edition of music/Maker, I’m joined by composer Nicolás Lell Benavides.

And what a joy it was to sit down with him for this episode! Nicolás and I have been connected via social media for some time now, but like many of my guests on music/Maker, we hadn't really ever talked beyond a quick message or two. I'm glad it finally happened, and it was such a generous conversation that covered a great deal of ground about his life and work.

This is one not to miss – and, even though it’s the longest episode to date (by two minutes!), every second is worth listening to.

Read on for more, and new episodes of micro/Maker this week touching on the role of curiosity in hairstyling, and how embracing being human can guide a creative life.

🎧 New on the Feed

🎙 music/Maker with Tyler Kline

Now streaming: Letting the Story Lead the Music with Nicolás Lell Benavides

Photo credit: Maggie Beidelman

In this conversation, Nicolás reflects on why his music is rooted in curiosity and dialogue rather than autobiography. He shares stories of writing about cottonwoods and irrigation, sage grouse and New Mexican Catholic folk figures – and how that exploration connects to his own family and heritage.

He also speaks candidly about the opera process, the challenge of revision, and how working with brilliant collaborators has helped him embrace humility, growth, and a sense of purpose in the work.

Learn more about Nicolás and his work on his website: https://nicolasbenavides.com/

New episodes every other Thursday. Subscribe now!

🎙 micro/Maker

micro/Maker 019: Staying Curious in the Craft (featuring Anna Huffka)

Anna Huffka shares how creativity, individuality, and hospitality come together in her work as a hairstylist – treating hair as both sculptural craft and conversation.

micro/Maker 020: Starting from a Human Place (featuring Emily Koh)

Composer Emily Koh reflects on embracing curiosity, humanity, and imperfection, guiding her creative life without the pressure to make a masterpiece.

Episodes are released every Tuesday and Friday. Subscribe now!

🔜 Coming Up Soon

Next week on micro/Maker, we start dipping into moments from this season of music/Maker – beginning with a solo episode where I share a few reflections on my own creative practice. Plus, music critic Vanessa Ague talks about how listening to drone and ambient music can open up a deeper, more immersive relationship with sound and attention.

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Take care this week, and can’t wait to share more with you soon!