Sounds Heal Podcast

Richard Cooke is a Grammy Award–winning musician, instrument designer, and innovator, best known as the founder of Freenotes Company (1991). Early in his musical life, he played flute and explored improvisation and intuitive approaches to sound, which shaped his belief that anyone can make beautiful music. A pivotal moment came during a retreat with Paul Winter’s consort, which inspired him to focus on creating instruments and experiences that make music accessible to all. Cooke developed Freenotes instruments based on the principle “Beautiful Music Made Simple”—intuitively tuned percussion and melodic instruments that allow anyone to play without fear of wrong notes. His work expanded into Freenotes Harmony Park, bringing outdoor, playable sound installations to parks, schools, and public spaces, creating communal experiences where music fosters connection and joy. He also contributed to the restoration and recreation of instruments by Lou Harrison, preserving and extending the life of these unique creations