In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper sits down with Jessica Duchen to explore the intersection of music and literature. Jessica shares insights into her career as a music journalist and author, discusses the inspiration behind her novels, and delves into the powerful storytelling elements found in classical music. Have an idea for an e…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, host Jack Pepper sits down with Barry Wordsworth, Principal Guest Conductor of The Royal Ballet, to explore the intricacies of conducting for ballet. Barry shares his insights on the essential skills for a ballet conductor, the importance of collaboration with dancers and choreographers, and his own journey into the…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, host Jack Pepper sits down with Jo Wilson, Head of Music at Scala Radio, to explore the intricacies of managing a classical music radio station. From curating diverse playlists to balancing personal taste with station identity, Jo shares her journey and insights into the evolving world of classical music broadcastin…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, host Jack Pepper explores the dynamic world of orchestral management with James Williams, Managing Director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. With years of experience in both management and artistic direction, James offers an insider’s perspective on the unique challenges and rewards of leading one of the UK’s pr…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper chats with Julian Lloyd Webber about embracing diversity and innovation in classical music. Julian reflects on his career as a cellist and conductor, shares his experiences collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds, and discusses the importance of nurturing creativity in the classical musi…

In this episode of Classic 15', host Jack Pepper sits down with Ragnhild Hemsing to discuss her journey as a rising star in the classical music world. Ragnhild shares insights into her career as a violinist and violist, talks about her passion for exploring Nordic folk music, and reflects on the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in music…

In this episode of Classic 15', host Jack Pepper speaks with Rodney Friend about mastering the art of musical expression. Rodney reflects on his illustrious career as a violinist, concertmaster, and pedagogue, shares his thoughts on the importance of individual expression in music, and discusses his experiences working with legendary conductors and…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper speaks to Anita Collins about the secrets of musical learning. Anita discusses the importance of neuroscience in understanding how music affects the brain, the role of music education in cognitive development, and the impact of music on emotional expression. Have an idea for an episode? Tell us abou…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper chats with Emmanuel Pahud, a renowned figure in the world of classical music and one of the most respected names in the realm of flute performance. Delve into Emmanuel's journey, from his early experiences as a soloist alongside esteemed orchestras to his pivotal role as the principal flautist in th…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper sits down with Hungarian violinist and orchestra conductor Gabor Takacs-Nagy. From his early days as a founding member of the renowned Takacs Quartet to his current roles as a conductor and chamber music teacher, Gabor shares profound insights into the world of music-making. Delving into his deep co…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper explores the world of music journalism and broadcasting with esteemed journalist Remy Franck. With a career spanning decades, Remy shares insights into the evolution of the International Classical Music Awards (ICMA) and the crucial role of journalists in recognizing emerging talent. Discover the in…

Join host Jack Pepper in this captivating episode of Classic 15 as he delves into the world of Numa Bischof Ullmann, the artistic director of the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra. Discover the remarkable journey of the orchestra under Numa's visionary leadership, with expanded budgets, prestigious collaborations, and groundbreaking initiatives. Explore t…

In this episode of Classeek 15', host Jack Pepper delves into a thought-provoking conversation with Stephen McHolm, the Director of the Academy & Unlimited (Cultural Engagement) of the Verbier Festival. Stephen takes us on a journey through the immersive world of classical music education in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Unravel the daily life of a …

In this episode of Classeek 15, Jack Pepper speaks with composer Shirley J. Thompson about finding her musical voice, working with tv in her early career and dealing with pressure in the music industry. Shirley was the first woman to compose and conduct a symphony in the last 40 years, along with a host of high profile commissions, among the most n…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper speaks to violin Esther Yoo on her relationship with the violin, dealing with the pandemic and looking after her wellbeing during a performing career. Esther talks about having a period of not playing the violin during the pandemic, creating her 'Artist Confidential' series on YouTube, and how valuable r…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper speaks to violinist and environmental activist Lea Bruckner about her passion for music and the planet. Lea explains combining her love for the environment and performing, how this led to speaking at events like the World Food Forum of the United Nations and the Berlin Government, and exploring the impac…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper speaks with pianist Jean-Paul Gasparian on facing challenges, competitions and his experiences of being a student alongside a professional performer. Jean-Paul talks about embracing last minute calls, his opinion on competitions and the importance for musicians to build their repertoire that suits them. …

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper speaks with soprano Nadine Benjamin about changing careers and finding her path later on in life. Nadine Benjamin's inspiring path included working in the corporate finance world, waitressing and then taking a chance in the classical music world without ever having had a lesson. Have an idea for an episo…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper speaks to Global Development Director Oli Rose about the Lang Lang Foundation and how it supports children and young people to access music. Oli talks about the importance of music to young children, the variety of programmes, partnerships and opportunities that the Lang Lang Foundation offers, and makin…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Jack Pepper talks to Florian Riem, the General Secretary of World Federation of International Music Competitions, about competitions in the classical music world. Florian discusses if competitions are really essential for young artists today, what the first steps are for a performer looking to enter competitions and…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, host Michael Beek speaks with one of the UK’s most foremost violinists, Charlie Siem. Having studied at the Royal College of Music, London and at Cambridge University, Charlie brings his experience of the journey of musicians, early challenges, opportunities and how to learn through it all. Whether you’re an establi…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, host Michael Beek speaks with Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Britten Sinfonia, Meurig Bowen, who has extensive experience within the UK music scene, and a keen interest in catering for classical music audiences today. Meurig discusses his approach to programming, audience trends and what young artists …

In this episode of Classeek 15’ host Michael Beek speaks to artist manager Sonia Simmenauer about how artist management has changed over the years, and about managing a young artist and how to guide their career. Sonia talks about supporting an artist in all decisions big and small, such as what engagements to accept, keeping organised while being …

In this episode of Classeek 15’ host Michael Beek talks with Jalayne Mitchell, US based cellist and founder of ‘Classical Wellness’, an online space promoting mental wellness in classical music. Discussing highly pressing topics for young artists on their career journey, Jalayne brings to the table thoughts about building efficiency and practice te…

Host Michael Beek talks with violinist and consultant Naomi Belshaw, in this episode of Classeek 15’, about presenting and publicising yourself as an artist. Naomi talks about the challenges of the digital age and how to approach becoming a modern entrepreneur in the classical music world. Have an idea for an episode? Tell us about it! Music: J. Ma…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Michael Beek speaks to French-Israeli jazz pianist Aaron Herman on how to cultivate creativity and integrate it in a life of an artist. Aaron talks about how you can find your own artistic freedom, how exploring a new creative pursuit can sometimes be uncomfortable and the rewards that this can offer. Have an idea f…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, Dr Indre Viscontas, trained opera singer, director and neuroscientist, joins host Michael Beek in discussing the connection between music and the brain. An associate psychology professor at the University of San Francisco and faculty member at the San Francisco conservatory, Dr Indre Viscontas opens our minds to how…

In this episode of Classeek 15’, composer and Classeek Ambassador Eric Tanguy talks with host Michael Beek about an array of subjects from hearing his first compositions come to life and continuous learning opportunities, to taking criticism and other aspects for young composers to bear in mind. Having studied in Paris with Horatiu Radulescu and Be…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Charlotte Gardner speaks to esteemed artist agent Sonia Simmenauer, where she talks about her experiences throughout the years with insights for the future generation. Sonia talks about how she got into artist management, building her own string quartet representation company in 1989, the current need for more artis…

Host Michael Beek talks with prize-winning French pianist David Kadouch, in this episode of Classeek 15’. Regarded as one of the finest of his generation, both as a soloist and chamber musician, he is a versatile and dynamic musician and joins us to discuss the modern world of classical music. From his first experiences at the piano with his family…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Charlotte Gardner speaks to cellist Gautier Capuçon on launching Fondation Gautier Capuçon and how it is helping young musicians today. Gautier talks about his passion for education, scholarships and opportunities that are offered on the programme and creating a musical family with the foundation. Have an idea for a…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Charlotte Gardner speaks to cellist Gautier Capuçon on international music competitions. Many of todays top soloists came to prominence from competitions, but are they damaging or too hit and miss when it comes to finding interesting talent? Gautier and Charlotte discuss how to approach them so you gain something va…

In this episode of Classeek 15', Charlotte Gardner speaks to cellist Gautier Capuçon on how to approach touring, particularly if you are the start of your career. Gautier gives some tips and tricks on preparing for performances, knowing your own limits when performing, when to speak up in professional situations and the importance of being yourself…

Get to know Classeek 15' with your host Jack Pepper. Tune into our chatty coffee podcast to get your fix of all things classical music, with bite-size interviews with artists, promoters, journalists, and others involved in the industry. Stream all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, or anywhere else you get your podcas…