Braving the Stave

JJ interviews Christiana Mavron ahead of the Mavron Quartet's performance in the Arts Active Lunchtime Concert Series, on 3rd June 2025.Cardiff Classical Lunchtime Recitals: The Mavron Quartet - Arts ActiveTicketsSupport the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #artsactive #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff #cardiffclassical

Jon and Haz find out why it's best not to say 'neoclassicism' in a hurry before plunging into beautiful reinventions of the past. Along the way, Haz makes the connection between Stravinsky and sweating and Jon discovers Couperin's 'Tic-Toc Choc'.Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #artsactive #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff #cardiffclassical

JJ and Haz extol the virtues and versatility of the clarinet, from its humble folk beginnings through to its many shapes and sizes of today. Includes the instrument's nicknames, its use in classical and jazz and its resemblance to milk chocolate.Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #artsactive #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff #cardiffclassical

The duo performing in an upcoming Cardiff Lunchtime series at Eglwys Dewi Sant talk with Jon about how they met, the background to their instruments and the thinking behind their innovative and beautifully considered programme.Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

With the unusual pairing of a recorder and accordion coming up in a concert, Jon and Haz do a quick survey of other rarer concert instruments. In this 'musical zoo' are instruments that are both haunting and hooting, folk and electronic, and one that reminds Haz of a 'depressed Cor Anglais.' Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Jon and Haz dip their toes into the ocean that is Roots Music, discussing its stereotypes and stigmas, its multiple instruments and crazy time signatures, and why pan pipes make for great massage music. Along the way, Jon talks about his own journey with the Dovetail Orchestra for asylum-seeking musicians, which has bases in both Bristol and Cardiff (at Eglwys Dewi Sant). Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz see in the new year with a celebration of the string quartet, testing the claim that it is a 'four-way marriage without the sex'. Haz divulges her pet peeves as a chamber musician, as well as what a 'shig' is and why, amazingly, 'Bridgerton' is keeping the quartet genre alive and kicking.Contact email: A2@artsactive.org.ukSupport the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukX @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Christmas Cracker 2024JJ and Haz bring on the 'hygge' with a homage to the wind quintet, bagatelles and boyfriends (Haz's), carols to cherish and avoid, 'disruptive' descants and a whole new genre of 'earnest kitsch'. Nadolig llawen, pawb!Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

When Jon likens harp music to twinkly bedtime stories, Haz champions the instrument, taking it beyond the usual clichés. Together they consider its Celtic history, how much patience you need to tune it, the most-loved harp effects, and why harpists are the best people to ask to unscrew a jar.Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz try to convert each other to the sound of the sax, celebrating its parps, growls and bends. Along the way: why Debussy called the sound 'aquatic', why it reminds JJ of custard, and what it means to be 'Careless Whispered' while at music college. Support the showwww.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In the new season of Braving the Stave, JJ and Haz give their light-hearted but sharp-eared take on the lunchtime recitals happening every month in Eglwys Dewi Sant. This opening episode ponders whether Patrick Rimes, local folk legend, could play a blancmange, what it would be like to work for an insomniac Count, and the deeper meaning of 'Say a little prayer.'Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz suggest three categories of summer music to enjoy,  'bubble, deckchair and fiesta', before selecting 6 summer bangers to see the sun in. Includes hip jiggling, graffiti and casting issues in Carmen. Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this final part to their survey of different musical elements, Jon and Haz imagine cartwheels in Bach, the weight of silence, whether John Dowland had any party hits, how Mariah Carey would sing Twinkle Twinkle and, rather disturbingly, what Jon would look like in a bikiniSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Braving HarmonyWhat has harmony got to do with colouring-in books, killing kittens and how to yearn for something unattainable? How can Rachmaninoff change the weather with a chord? JJ and Haz discuss their favourite harmonists, from early rule-breakers to Radiohead and folk artists. Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

The Magic of MelodyWhat gives a memorable melody its magic? JJ and Haz discuss the remedy, first, for 'earworms' and brave the world's ugliest melody before plundering the troves of music theatre, bebop and classical music for the most emotionally satisfying tunes.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Braving RhythmIn the first of a series exploring different parameters of music, Jon and Haz delve into fascinating rhythms, mining the works of Gershwin, Stravinsky, Bartók, Reich and more. Along the way they discover mind-boggling Bulgarian folk patterns, why rhythm is so hard to teach, and why a road trip with Haz would always be educational.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

This month Jon and Haz take a step back from the orchestral stage and look at the more intimate world of chamber music, picking out their favourites and sharing how working in a chamber group can be so fulfilling. And those times when it doesn't work out so well...Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

With Haz away due to a Christmas cold, Jon sees the year out with a festive mix of favourite moments from recent gigs, including a Turkish love song, a contemporary carol, the compulsory Sleigh Ride and a Welsh classic.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Haz and JJ bring some pep to your November with the music of protest and revolt, whether it's Obama breaking into song, Chopin feeling heroic or Billy Holiday lamenting a dark past. And what is the opposite of goosebumps?Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Given the weather recently, JJ and Haz ponder the different ways rain has been treated in music, including Chopin's disturbing dream, Britten's cheerful storm, Debussy's summer tempest, and John Luther Adams' electronic showers. Bambi gets a look-in too, as do two heart-rending versions of 'Over The Rainbow'. And if you've ever wondered how the Welsh say 'it's raining cats and dogs', look no further!Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

All things autumn. (And some concrete). As autumn beckons and St David's Hall lingers to have its concrete checked,  JJ and Haz spend their first podcast back considering music of the moment: seasonal themes of renewal, colourful landscapes and some musique concrète too (the fun bits). The challenge is to avoid autumnal stereotypes along the way.  And Haz surveys whether musicians have a favourite version of 'Autumn Leaves', the perennial jazz classic.Hyfrydwch hydrefol. (Ac ychydig o goncrit).Wrth i'r hydref agosáu ac wrth i Neuadd Dewi Sant aros i'w goncrit gael ei wirio, yn eu podlediad cyntaf yn ôl mae JJ a Haz yn ystyried cerddoriaeth y cyfnod: themâu tymhorol am adnewyddu, tirweddau lliwgar, ac ychydig o musique concrète hefyd (y rhannau diddorol). Yr her yw osgoi stereoteipiau hydrefol. Ac mae Haz yn holi a oes gan gerddorion hoff fersiwn o ‘Autumn Leaves', y clasur jazz bythol.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

To culminate this season of Braving the Stave, Haz and Jon contemplate what it might be like to kiss a fanfaring trumpeter and uncover a disturbing past to the fanfare genre. They then pick their favourite rousing (or crushing) finales from the music of Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, Bartok and John Williams.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Continuing the theme of our May episode, JJ interviews Sali-Wyn Ryan, a proudly Welsh member of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and asks her about the perks and pitfalls of orchestral life.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this deep-dive into orchestral life, JJ and Haz discover why so many orchestral musicians own a pilot's licence, why a percussionist can feel like a lemon, why basketball-players could make excellent violists and the most important question of them all: which section always arrives late to every rehearsal?Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Haz sets out to enlighten JJ, a self-confessed harmony junkie, in the joys of Minimalism. Starting with the hippy experiments of La Monte Young, they trace the style's evolution via Glass and Reich to the complex scores of post-minimalist, John Adams. Along the way they discover why Haz salivates at the sound of a gamelan and how every minimalist needs a marimba. Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Haz takes the lead in this podcast about female composers and women in music. Is there still a 'gender agenda' in the classical music industry, and is there enough female representation at the top table? Expect bold, beautiful music, frank exchanges and a contentious review of the film 'Tár'. Featuring pieces by Rebecca Clarke, Dani Howard, Rebecca Dale, Debbie Wiseman, Hildur Guðnadóttir, Rachel Portman and Florence Price. Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=de2ff953d16940afSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

What was the story behind Sibelius' French first name and what makes his music so distinct and compelling? Expect brooding mountain spirits, magical string textures, Welsh-sounding hymns and abrupt 'Fininish' endings. Including an interview with a champion and foremost interpreter of Sibelius' music, conductor Jukka-Pekka Saraste.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this first podcast of the year, JJ and Haz share what they love about Johannes Brahms and his music. It's more raving than 'braving' as they reveal some lesser known stories about when he grew his famous big beard, how he was a prankster, and why his first conducting of the concerto turned out to be the stuff of JJ's nightmares.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz discuss classical music's Christmas clichés and compete to find the piece with the most sparkle. With new carols from young Welsh composers and a nostalgic glance back to wintry treasure swaps from earlier podcasts.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

What is it about the human voice and the special sound of a choir that holds such power for people (and makes JJ 'leaky')? Using examples from all genres, Haz and JJ explore issues of the perfect blend, keeping a drone in tune and what it means to have a 'true tone'. With an interview with members from The Sixteen, including their founder-director, Harry Christophers.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Mention improvisation and many classical musicians break into a cold sweat. JJ and Haz debunk some common myths and delve into the roots and cures of 'improvophobia' and why every musician should give improv a go. And why it's good to be a 'musical magpie'. With inspiring examples from Messiaen to Mehldau, Fantasias to Flamenco.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Can classical music still shock? Braving the Stave asks the question to BBC NOW's principal conductor Ryan Bancroft as he launches the autumn season with Stravinsky's infamous 'Rite of Spring'. JJ and Haz explore its continuing hold on audiences and share contemporary music that manages to provoke and tease.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz reach for their T-shirts and ponder how music expresses all things summery, whether the heat of Latin America or the poignancy of lost memories by a lake. Haz reveals a surprising summer piece that brings her out in hives. Which family of instruments sounds the warmest? And which version of Gershwin's Summertime would you pick?Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Jon and Haz take on Shostakovich's mighty Tenth symphony, but not before appreciating his lighter side. Expect quick quizzes, a lesser heard gem for the viola and a rather ambiguous Welsh sign-off.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

With Haz away, Jon takes a look at the signature sounds of Vaughan Williams, in particular in his 'London Symphony', which takes in all the sights and sounds of the city: from Big Ben to Bloomsbury Square, from drunken jigs to solemn marches. It's a work full of surprises.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

At a time of so much conflict,  Jon and Haz discuss their favourite cross-cultural musical projects and celebrate the power of music to connect.  With music from the Silk Road Ensemble, reflections on the past by both Russian and Ukrainian composers (cue stares into the middle distance) and a brief turn from Sir Tom Jones. Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Do you prefer your apple crumble in a bowl with custard or deconstructed and reinvented like on Masterchef? Jon and Haz put a range of  neo-classical and neo-baroque works to the 'crumble' test. Along the way, they consider why Schnittke is a slippery fish, what the collective noun for saxophones might be and consider the art of 'thinking in the box'.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Musical allergies and the Jazzical genreWhat are your musical allergies and pet peeves? Jon and Haz share theirs before quibbling over Gilbert and Sullivan. A brief introduction to the light classical genre follows, with examples of jazzical fusion. Will it be your cup of tea? Or, as the Germans say, your 'collar size'?Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this Christmas Cracker, Jon and Haz ask some essential seasonal questions, including what are today's 'posh pantos', which music sounds Christmassy without even trying, and what their favourite new Christmas carols are.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this cosy November edition of Upbeats, JJ and Haz discuss why choral music goes well with hot chocolate, the effect of conductor Harry Christophers' flowing locks, the music of Gjeilo (not J Lo), and the difference between female sopranos and boy trebles. The piece explored this time is Herbert Howells' 'A Spotless Rose', in time for the concert at St David's Hall by The Sixteen.Support the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Jon and Haz ask some important questions about Tchaikovsky's final masterpiece, including the origins of the 'pathétique' moniker and why a Colorado conductor got the movements the wrong way round when he performed it. Is that waltz really as 'limping' as they say? How about the legend about the symphony being Tchaikovsky's 'suicide note'? And do you agree that his music is, as one critic put it, 'a veritable orgy of naked feelings?'Accompanying playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=-WGcX8MsSYmFj2mdXFevYg&utm_source=copy-linkSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Welcome to a new season of Upbeats podcasts, with light-hearted conversations every month about orchestral pieces featured in the St David's Hall programme. This month Jon and Haz talk Sibelius: his 'large, well-shaped sound-receiver' ears, why certain passages make string players' backs ache, 'tapeworm' melodies and how his magnificent second symphony represents a struggle between life and death. Accompanying Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=OY3AWmbuQwSXwg22frcOsgSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

'In this last instalment of the season, JJ and Haz (despite a bout of Covid) pick a musical sunrise and sunset each, consider how you express light and shade in sound and look forward to the prospect, in the autumn, of doing podcasts while not in pyjamas.'Accompanying Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=OY3AWmbuQwSXwg22frcOsgSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

JJ and Haz share six pieces that have helped them get through lockdown this past year, following three themes:  music to help you grieve, music to aid reflection and music to give you hope. Which would your six pieces be?Accompanying Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=OY3AWmbuQwSXwg22frcOsgSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Playlist available here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=OY3AWmbuQwSXwg22frcOsgSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Can Music be Humorous?Can music make you laugh? JJ and Haz explore ways in which it can, including parodies, false endings, slapstick and mishaps. Strauss' Til Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks is mined for laughs too.Playlist available here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=OY3AWmbuQwSXwg22frcOsgSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

All things Welsh and BeautifulRecorded just prior to St David's Day, Haz and JJ enjoy a heartening range of Welsh musical traditions, from Bryn Terfel hitting the high notes to delicate harps and ballads of forbidden love. Calan and Cool Cymru rub shoulders with Grace Williams and Mathias, then there's a survey of one of the ever-popular Sir Karl Jenkins. Hiraeth abounds throughout. Accompanying playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=c5hwTbrLTlatwxVl1Yw_kASupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

In this St Dwynwen/Valentine's Special, JJ and Haz celebrate music as the supreme language of love. Includes a Rachmaninoff-off, comparisons of the sexiest classical pieces and which wind players would have the best six-pack. The 'stave being braved' this time is the balcony scene from Prokofiev's 'Romeo and Juliet'. Accompanying playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=c5hwTbrLTlatwxVl1Yw_kASupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

'The sweets left at the bottom of the box'In this bumper Christmas episode, JJ and Haz explore festive pieces that often get overlooked while reflecting on premature descants, Ukranian nationalism, an orchestral musician's essential kit and the perils of pizzicato. The stave to be braved this time is the ballet score to Tchaikovsky's 'The Nutcracker', but expect the unexpected!Accompanying playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=c5hwTbrLTlatwxVl1Yw_kASupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

The "It's definitely not Christmas yet" one.JJ and Haz venture into some very chilly winter musical landscapes, ward off the gloom with a risqué viola joke, and brave the stave of Vivaldi's 'Winter' from his Four Seasons, courtesy of a dynamic recording by Dmitri Sinkovsky and La Voce Strumentale. Accompanying playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=c5hwTbrLTlatwxVl1Yw_kASupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff

Upbeats goes to the dark side in a Halloween specialIn this second Upbeats episode, JJ and Haz ask what makes scary music scary, listen to diabolical instruments and marvel at the many versions of 'Night on a Bare Mountain.' And there's even a creepy viola joke!Accompanying Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0IujonLl2lB7bfPzz71U0Z?si=De9jrT05R0iO9A0dE1ekwQSupport the Show.www.artsactive.org.ukEmail a2@artsactive.org.ukTwitter @artsactiveInstagram artsactivecardiff Facebook artsactive#classicalmusic #stdavidshall #neuadddewisant #drjonathanjames #bravingthestave #musicconversations #funfacts #guestspeakers #cardiff