The Beare's Podcast: Violin Stories

In this episode, Simon Morris sits down with the renowned double bassist and Chineke! Orchestra founder, Chi-chi Nwanoku. They explore the overlooked legacies of Black composers, the impact of cultural appropriation in music, and the shifting landscape of diversity in classical performance. Chi-chi shares her personal experiences as one of the few black musicians in major orchestras, discusses the...

Roger Hargrave is one of the most respected names in the world of violin-making, known for his meticulous craftsmanship and deep historical knowledge. In this episode, host Simon Morris delves into Roger’s fascinating career—from his early days painting harpsichords to his groundbreaking work with the Guarneri exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum. Roger shares stories of his time at Hills, his tr...

Join Simon Morris as he sits down with Geoffrey Davis, the founder of The Violin Channel, to explore the meteoric rise of this global classical music platform. Geoffrey shares how his unique blend of business and music degrees, a leap of faith in 2009, and the opportunities presented by YouTube and Facebook shaped The Violin Channel into a worldwide hub for classical music. From curating groundbre...

In this episode of Violin Stories, Simon Morris welcomes renowned violinist Esther Abrami. They discuss her unconventional path to a successful music career, her passion for communicating through both her voice and violin, and the evolution of her podcast, 'Women in Classical'. Esther shares insights on her diverse interests, the importance of not adhering strictly to traditional routes...

Simon Morris chats with renowned cellist and teacher Ralph Kirshbaum about the Piatigorsky Cello Festival, the arts of teaching and performing.

Simon discusses the art of violin making with acclaimed luthiers Peter Greiner and Robert Young.

Simon Morris speaks with his colleague violin expert, Steven Smith, and violin collector, philanthropist and eminent banker Jonathan Moulds CBE about the value of instruments to both the player and the investor.

Richard Tognetti, the Artistic Director and lead violin of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and Satu Vänskä, the orchestra’s principal violin speak with Simon Morris about their extraordinary range of work as musicians and composers.

Conductor and violinist, Alan Gilbert, chats to Simon Morris about growing up in a family of violinists and his thoughts on life and music as a conductor during these unprecedented times.

Simon chats with Sir Michael about his early days as a violin player, his violin competition, his astounding success in business and his unique philosophy on life.

Simon Morris chats with Paul Cassidy on growing up in Northern Ireland as the youngest of 16 children and what it's like to be part of a successful quartet for over 40 years.

Acclaimed soloist Joshua Bell discusses music, life and lock-down with old friend and colleague, Harvey de Souza, leader of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields. Presented by Simon Morris, J & A Beare.