Intern Spotlight: Cole Counihan

Published August 7, 2024 by Reba Cafarelli      |      Share this post!

Where are you from?

I am from Aurora, IL!

What is one thing about yourself that you want everyone to know?

My favorite punctuation symbol is the exclamation point!

A link to something about you (website, video, post, etc.)

https://instagram.com/cole_counihan

What are you up to these days?

I am about to start my age-out summer of Drum Corps International with the Blue Stars out of Lacrosse, WI. After that, I will return to Belmont University to finish out my BM in Classical Percussion Performance!

When did you intern with TCP?

January 2024 – May 2024

How did you connect with TCP?

I met Reba after a Chicago concert, and while talking to her about her journey in arts administration learned about the internship program. The program was a great way to continue my studies while away from school!

Did you gain anything from the internship that you’d like to share?

Interning with TCP was a great way to make professional connections and learn about the rigor of being a practicing professional musician, both behind the instrument and in the office. Watching TCP’s production process and schedule helped me further understand how to make a career out of music, and I am greatly appreciative for my time there!

What else did you do while you were interning?

Most of the work I did while interning was with Colin, TCP’s Production Manager. Other notable moments included being a camera operator for the “Dueling With Time” shoot, producing the “5 Days To Downbeat” videos, working on logistics for various excursions, and redesigning the merch webpage.

Did you leave a legacy or mark on the organization that you’re particularly proud of?

I feel like my largest accomplishment was producing the “5 Days to Downbeat” miniseries – This project started out as one line in a production meeting for the concert, and I had the capacity to take that idea and embellish it into the youtube videos we released! It was great to both learn about filming and editing, and also learn a lot about how TCP prepare for a concert!

Favorite memory?

TCP hosted an event for their Chicago Circle members: an open rehearsal/composition workshop for an upcoming commission. Peter was unfortunately occupied that day, and Sean asked that I stand in and cover his part for the short session. After a brief rehearsal, some amazing folk from TCP’s Chicago Circle arrived and got to watch the rehearsal and composition process! After the rehearsal, the ensemble, staff, guests, and myself had a social outing where I got the opportunity to meet some of TCP’s biggest fans and learn about the reasons they have chosen to support the organization!

A GIF or YouTube link that sums up your experience with TCP?

Doggo Spin Sticker

If you were a cartoon character, who would you be?

Arnold from The Magic School Bus


Our interns can experience every part of TCP’s organization, from visiting recording sessions to writing grants and everything in between. We accept interns almost year-round. If you’re interesting in learning more about an internship with Third Coast, please contact Sean Connors at [email protected].