Classeek 15'

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 about it! Support the show Music: J. Martinez Ca...

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 music world. Have an idea for an episode? Tell us...

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. Have an idea for an episode? Tell us about...

In this episode of Classeek 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 composers. Have an idea for an episode? Te...

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 the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra.  Emmanu...

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 connection with Hungarian music and his transi...

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 intricacies of the nomination process, the sig...

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 the audition process that draws talented music...

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 young musician at the academy, from enli...

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 notable is 'New Nation Rising', a 21st c...

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 relationships with other artists ca...

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 impact of the classical musician on the environme...

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.  Have an idea for an episode? Tell us about...

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 episode? Tell us about it! Support the show...

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 making sure access to music is available for thos...

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 having a positive outlook when entering.  I...

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 established artist or you’re just finishing studies, eve...

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 today can do with the current artistic landscape. ...

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 on tour, knowing how to communicate and teaching t...

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 techniques, mental and physical stresses, young arti...

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! Support the show Music: J. Martinez Campos Follow us on Face...

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 for an episode? Tell us about it! Support the...

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 we can use the neuroscience of learning and memo...

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 Betsy Jonas, Eric Tanguy is one of the most performe...

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 artist managers and the joy of developing an arti...