For chapter three, I was allowed to observe a practice session ahead of a performance later that night in Kalamazoo, Mich. with musicians Seth Bernard and May Erlewine. Also at the practice was percussionist Mike Shimmin and bassist Andrew Kratzat.

During the practice, I recorded video and audio focusing attention on Bernard and Erlewine, a duo in a committed personal and creative relationship. Following the practice, we sat down for an interview.

I showed them portions of the video during their practice and had them describe their musical communication in their own words.

Michigan-based musicians Seth Bernard and May Erlewine have played together for more than five years.

The duo’s intimate musical relationship is the fuel that drives their passion to create songs together. Strengthening this bond further, Bernard and Erlewine are also romantic partners. The connection between them has resulted in a deep catalogue of songs widely praised by critics and fans alike.

Bernard and Erlewine allowed me to observe and record a pratice session with Andrew Kratzat on bass and Mike Shimmin on drums before a recent show at Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo, Mich. as part of a radio documentary I am creating for my graduate thesis project at Michigan State University.