Podcasts about birmingham conservatoire

Andrew Sharp began his professional career playing The Artful Dodger in J.C.Williamson's 1966 revival of Oliver! He went on to work steadily in theatre and on television in the 1970s, in shows such as Peter Kenna's A Hard God and Peter Handke's Kaspar at the Nimrod Street Theatre, The Season at Sarsaparilla and Julius Caesar for The Old Tote Theatre Company, The Rocky Horror Show at The New Art Cinema in Glebe, as well as playing a regular role in The Young Doctors and guest roles in other Grundy's productions. At the age of 25 he moved to London where he played leading roles in three long-running West End productions: Beyond the Rainbow, Stage Struck and Deathtrap. Returning to Australia in the 1980s he worked mostly in film and television, notably in movies such as Buddies and Undercover, mini-series such as Glass Babies and Sword of Honour and the 13 episode Taurus Rising - amongst other work. Throughout his career he dabbled in directing, producing shows with friends in unusual locations such as garages, living rooms and church halls. He graduated from the post-graduate diploma course in film directing at Melbourne's Swinburne Institute of Technology in 1986. In the 1990s he went on to work as an assistant director on several operas at The Australian Opera (as the company was then known), before returning to the UK in the 1990s, where he directed opera students at the Royal College of Music and the Birmingham Conservatoire and - for the Covent Garden Opera Festival - directed Handel's Saul and his own translation of Mozart's The Impresario. In 2002, searching for “home”, he moved to the small northwestern NSW town of Barraba, where he created The Playhouse Hotel, a 9 bedroom boutique hotel housing an 80 seat theatre. There he has presented dozens of touring theatre performances, bands, musicians and comedians… though he admits he misses his real hometown of Sydney, and plans to return soon. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).www.stagespodcast.com.au

Invitatul emisiunii de astăzi este tânărul compozitor Sebastian Androne-Nakanishi, primul român laureat al prestigiosului premiu International Classical Music Awards (ICMA), ediția 2022. „Compozitorul român Sebastian Androne este un adevărat talent, dovedind creativitate şi versatilitate atât în lucrări de muzică contemporană, cât şi coloanele sonore compuse pentru cinema şi teatru", se arată în argumentația juriului ICMA.Sebastian Androne-Nakanishi și-a încheiat studiile de licență, masterat și doctorat în București, în cadrul Universității Naționale de Muzică, având ca îndrumător și mentor pe domnul profesor Dan Dediu, potrivit Goethe Institut.În urma câștigării a două burse Erasmus, Sebastian Androne-Nakanishi a studiat  compoziția muzicală și cu Joe Cutler, Howard Skempton și Ed Bennett la Birmingham Conservatoire (în cel de-al doilea an de masterat) și cu Stefano Gervasoni la Conservatoire national supérieur de musique et de danse de Paris (în cel de-al doilea an de doctorat).Muzica sa a fost interpretată atât în Europa cât și în afara acesteia de către ansambluri precum Quator Diotima, Musicatreize, Tenso Chamber Choir, Looptail și de către orchestre precum Shanghai Philharmonic, Filarmonica George Enescu și Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich.Totodată, Sebastian Androne-Nakanishi este câștigătorul a numeroase concursuri de compoziție naționale și internaționale, printre care se numără Marele Premiu oferit de Concursul George Enescu (2014), trofeul Golden Eye oferit the Zürich Film Festival (2018) și Premiul I oferit de International Choral Composition Competition din Japonia (2020).

This was a delightful conversation and I'm glad to be able to share it with you at the very start of 2024 and season 15 of Harmonious World.Singer Lucy-Anne Daniels is very much one to watch and I can highly recommend you search for a gig where you can hear her sing and watch her own the stage.Although it's a great honour for me to be able to interview some titans of music, I'm really going to seek out new artists like Lucy-Anne (and composer of my Harmonious World theme tune, Joe English) to promote. You can watch a video of her performing with fellow musicians from the Birmingham Conservatoire.Watch out for my new blog feature of upcoming gigs - mostly UK but anything that looks interesting and especially those that feature past or future guests.Thank you for listening to Harmonious World. Please rate, review and share: click on the link and subscribe to support the show.Don't forget the Quincy Jones quote that sums up why I do this: "Imagine what a harmonious world it would be if every single person, both young and old, shared a little of what he is good at doing."Support the showThanks for listening to Harmonious World. You can support the show by becoming a subscriber.Please rate and review wherever you find your podcasts - it really helps.Read my reviews of albums, gigs and books as well as a little personal stuff on my blogFollow me on instagram.com/hilseabrookFollow me on facebook.com/HilarySeabrookFreelanceWriterFollow me on twitter.com/hilaryrwriter

Alexa is joined on the Singing Teachers Talk podcast by Carrie Garrett, who is a BAPAM registered SLT and vocal rehabilitation coach, singer and co-founder of the company VitaVoice. Through VitaVoice, Carrie and her team produce supplements to support the vocal health of voice users. Carrie has over 25 years of experience as a singer and singing teacher, and she is on the podcast to discuss physical well-being and supplementary products for singers. KEY TAKEAWAYS Carrie views well-being as encompassing comfort, health and happiness. When it comes to vocal health, these are the ultimate goals for singers and individuals undergoing voice therapy. The aim is to ensure that individuals are comfortable and healthy enough to achieve everything they desire with their voice, while also finding happiness in the process.  VitaVoice is a daily food supplement capsule designed to support your well-being and health and maintain your voice. Their product includes key vitamins, minerals, and botanicals, including lion's mane mushroom, ashwagandha and ginseng. If you have a healthy lifestyle and a good diet, you generally don't need to take supplements. However, there are other factors which impact this, such as the lack of sunlight in the UK at certain times of the year. This can lead to people lacking in vitamin D. As singers, we also live irregular lives, often on the road where it's hard to eat healthy.  Adaptogens are a class of plants and herbs that help your mind and body adapt to a wide range of stressors (physical, mental, emotional and environmental), helping you to restore balance and function at your best. Adaptogens can boost your energy levels naturally, giving you sustained energy levels throughout the day. The term ‘Nootropics' refers to substances which have a positive impact on mental skills such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention. They increase blood circulation to the brain, providing increased energy and oxygen flow. BEST MOMENTS‘The Singing and the Actor course completely opened my eyes to what vocal anatomy is' ‘Well-being is not just the physical side of things' ‘If you want to look after your vocal health, live well and everything else will fall into place'‘I wanted people to maximise their body function for creativity' ‘You don't need a multivitamin if you're getting everything you need' EPISODE RESOURCES Website: www.thesingersclinic.com  www.vitavoice.co.uk Social Media:  @carrie_voice_slt @vitavoicehealth Relevant Links & Mentions:  Vocal Process (Gillyanne Kayes & Jeremy Fisher): https://vocalprocess.co.uk/ Declan Costello: https://www.voicedoctor.co.uk/ Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep. 87 How to Manage Allergies and Upper Respiratory Infections with Laryngologist Declan Costello The World Health Organisation: https://www.who.int/ Tim Ferriss: https://tim.blog/ Podcast: Feel Better, Love More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee  The work of Jessie Inchauspé  BAPAM: https://www.bapam.org.uk/ BVA: https://britishvoiceassociation.org.uk/ Singing Teachers Talk Podcast - Ep.25 The Performers Health Starts from the Inside with Nutritionist Stephanie Moore Singing Teachers Talk Podcast - Ep. 60 The Best Nutritional Do's and Don'ts for Singers with Stephanie Moore Singing Teachers Talk Podcast - Ep. 100 The Truth About Singing and Dairy with Nutritionist Duncan Rock Singing Teachers Talk Podcast Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/basttraining?utm_source VitaVoice Contact Email: info@vitavoice.co.uk  ABOUT THE GUEST Carrie is a UK-based HCPC registered health practitioner working in the field of Voice. She is a BAPAM Registered SLT and Vocal Rehabilitation Coach and has over 25 years' of experience as a singer and singing teacher, adding to her skillset when she qualified as a Speech & Language Therapist in 2012. With a wealth of knowledge in diagnostic and therapeutic interventions related to her specialist field, she splits her time working in independent voice therapy practice, is clinical lead for Voice at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, and is co-founder of VitaVoice: a wellbeing company with health and prevention of voice issues at their heart…Good health for great voices! She holds a degree in Popular Music Performance, is a qualified teacher of music, and spent 9 years working in FE/HE music education alongside recording and performing original music and working in tribute and cover bands across the UK. All of this alongside her classical singing training at Birmingham Conservatoire as a teenager has contributed towards her empathy and compassion for the demands which exist for vocalists everywhere.  VitaVoice is a passion project developed with her husband and their colleague following recognition of a need for holistic health and well-being advice and products to support people with hard-working voices. Having been inspired by the nutritionists she worked with in the development of their hero product ‘VitaVoice: Optimise', any free time she has available is currently spent researching and studying towards her diploma in Health and Nutrition to ensure the information she shares with others relating to health and wellbeing is evidence-based and up to date. ABOUT THE PODCASTBAST Training is here to help singers gain the knowledge, skills and understanding required to be a great singing teacher. We can help you whether you are getting started or just have some knowledge gaps to fill through our courses and educational events.Website: basttraining.comGet updates to your inbox: Click here for updates from BAST TrainingLink to presenter's bios: basttraining.com/singing-teachers-talk-podcast-biosThis show was brought to you by Progressive Media

Elizabeth Pallett is a wonderful British lute player.  Her love of Renaissance music and history is infectious and she has generously provided this episode with several of her beautifully produced YouTube videos; her channel Luteweb is linked below, as well as her duo Amarylli with soprano Hannah Grove. We talk about the history of the evolution of plucked instruments in Europe, and many fascinating historical figures including Dowland and Shakespeare. Liz  plays various lutes and plucked instruments and teaches at the Birmingham Conservatoire as well as  online with students worldwide. Like all my episodes, you can listen to this on your favourite podcast player, watch the YouTube on my channel, and read the transcript; everything is linked on my website https://www.leahroseman.com/episodes/elizabeth-pallett I have also included detailed timestamps below.  I really do need my listners' help to keep this going! Please take a look at my Ko-fi page: https://ko-fi.com/leahroseman Below are the links for Elizabeth Pallett, her website and YouTube channels: https://luteweb.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@luteweb https://www.youtube.com/@amarylli1745 https://twitter.com/luteweb Timestamps: (00:00:00) Intro (00:01:57) Her musical education, growing up on a farm (00:04:16) Julian Bream's influence (00:05:52) introduction to the lute (00:09:17) Fantasia by Francesco Da Milano Libro Terzo 1562 (00:11:14) evolution of the lute from the oud (00:18:49) Calata Ala Spagnola by Joan Ambrosio Dalza  (00:21:48) the gittern (00:25:27) please help me keep this series going by supporting me through my Ko-fi page! (00:25:52) Tastar de corde, improvisatory music (00:28:01) historical context of the music, Aurelio Brandolini (00:33:58) the gittern and the origins of the guitar (00:36:35) lute tablature manuscripts, Capirola lute book (00:39:05) Ricercar Terzo by Vincenzo Capirola  (00:43:55) baroque guitar (00:46:18) Jácaras by Gaspar Sanz on baroque guitar (00:46:28) why Liz cuts her nails (00:54:54) teaching lute online and Luteweb videos (00:58:46) lute repertoire, Bach lautenwerck, why the lute fell out of favour (01:03:44) women lute players and composers (01:06:12) teaching online and sharing the love of the past and the lute (01:08:21) Recercar probably by Marco Dall'Aquila (01:10:23) teaching at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (01:12:43) the joy of playing figured bass (01:15:32) Amarylli, soprano Hannah Grove, creative programming (01:18:32) “Weep Ye No More Fountains” by John Dowland with Hannah Grove (01:21:08) controversy around Edward de Vere being the author of the writer who had the pen name Shakespeare (01:28:11) John Dowland (01:38:55)  Eward de Vere, Marco Dall'Aquila (01:40:34) finding time to practice, balancing family life (01:42:01) bringing undiscovered music to light --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/leah-roseman/message

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 17 covers the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, with Andrew Downes watching in his highchair; Frank's first TV broadcasts; a mishap with his horn pull-through; Sir John Reith and Sir John Manduel. Paula has chosen to end this episode with the Prelude from Andrew Downes' Five Dramatic Pieces for Eight Wager Tubas, from the CD, "Andrew Downes: Works for Horns and Wagner Tubas", dedicated to te memory of Frank Downes. This work was described as "Gorgeous writing" by Petroc Trelawny on BBC Radio 3 in 2014: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Instrumental-Ensemble.html#Wagner
 The image of the Queen is a photograph of a Candy Box at about the time of the Queen's Coronation in 1953 by Ross Dunn.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 16 covers the late Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953, at which Frank's brother Herbert was leading the violas in the orchestra in Westminster Abbey that day. The image of the Queen is a photograph of a Candy Box at about the time of the Queen's Coronation in 1953 by Ross Dunn. The episode also covers the life of conductor and pianist Leo Wurmser, and violinist Ernest Element. Paula has chosen to end this episode with the second movement of Andrew Downes' Sonata for Violin and Piano, performed by Rupert Marshall-Luck and Duncan Honeybourne, since this work was composed in memory of Ernest Element: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Instrumental-Solo.html#VIOLINPIANO

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 15 leads to Frank's appointment to Hornist of the BBC Midland Light Orchestra in 1953, with whom he recorded The Archers theme tune, to be broadcast on Radio 4 multiple times a week until 1992, when it was re-recorded. It also covers Frank's move into teaching at the Birmingham School of Music. Paula has chosen to end this episode with the third movement of Andrew Downes' Centenary Firedances, since the loud noises in this piece (originally composed to be performed with fireworks) evoke the loud noises Frank and his CBSO colleagues had to make on their instruments on their way back from a gig, in order to be rescued from a train carriage, which had been forgotten about and shunted down a dark tunnel late at night at Birmingham New Street Station!  This work was written for the Centenary of Birmingham celebrations in 1989. Find out more here: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Orchestral.html#SYMPHONIC

This week Three In a Bar becomes Three on a Boat as Seb and Verity hit the marina to meet timpanist supremo, Grahame King.Grahame has been principal timpanist with Royal Ballet Sinfonia since 1998 and guests with many other major orchestras in the UK. He teaches timpani at both RCM and Birmingham Conservatoire.Seb and Verity enjoyed a wonderful early summer evening on Grahame's boat - so much so, this episode is edited down from a 3hr conversation, gulp! He chats about his early days with the Sinfonia, touring tales and the birth of the RBS football team - major orchestral rivalries and covert matches against the dancers both feature!They discuss the pitfalls and problems of appearing as a guest principal timpanist, different timp arrangements and a trip to Sunderland in a clapped out van.Grahame talks about his musical roots and a dalliance with jazz vibes...who the devil is Ron Bevington? You'll find out...BUY TICKETS TO SEE OUR LIVE SHOW ON 12TH JUNE 2022! Live performances from the Old Dirty Brasstards, Iestyn Davis, Kuljit Bhamra, Georgia Van Etten, Christof Van Der Ven, Estilo String Quartet and many more. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/three-in-a-bar-podcast-live-tickets-334812361787Patreon Members come free!This episode is fuelled by Chimney Fire Coffee who have sponsored this podcast. Find out more about Chimney Fire Coffee at https://chimneyfirecoffee.com/There is a special offer for our lucky listeners, who will receive 20%  off their first order....just visit their website and enter the code THREEINABAR at checkout.You can follow Three In a Bar on Instagram @threeinabarpodhttps://www.instagram.com/threeinabarpod/We are on Twitter @threeinabarpod https://www.twitter.com/threeinabarpodAnything you'd like to share with us? Any guests you'd love to hear or anything you'd like us to do better? Drop us a line at hello@threeinabar.comSUPPORT THREE IN A BAR ON PATREONJoin our Members' Club for a bonus podcast feed plus many more rewards.Click here: https://www.patreon.com/threeinabar Click here to join the Members' Club on Patreon! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 14 is about Frank's appointment to Principal Hornist of the CBSO in 1949. Paula has chosen to end this episode with the second movement of Andrew Downes' Concerto for Piano and Symphony Orchestra, which was premiered at Birmingham Town Hall, which Frank mentions during this chapter.  This work was written for pianist Duncan Honeybourne with the Central England Ensemble, conductor Anthony Bradbury, Leader Anna Downes and Lead Violist Cynthia Downes. This recording is of the premiere on March 1st 2009. Find out more here: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Soloists-with-Orchestra.html#PIANOSYMPHONY

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 13 is about Frank's time in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under Malcom Sargent, performing at the first Edinburgh Festival in 1947, the Elgar Festival in Malvern, recordings with the Huddersfield Choral Society, and Sargent's Knightood. Paula has chosen to end this episode with the first movement of Andrew Downes' Sonata for Violin, Horn and Piano.  This work was commissioned by the Brahms Trio Prague (Ondrej Vrabec, solo and principal horn, Czech Philharmonic Orchestra; Monika Vrabcova, violin; and Daniel Wiesner, piano), who gave the world premiere on February 5th 2008 in the Suk Hall of the Rudolfinum, Prague. The Brahms Trio Prague (Ondrej Vrabec, Monika Vrabcova and Daniel Wiesner) recorded the work for CD in 2008, on the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra Artesmon Label. Find out more here: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Instrumental-Solo.html#VIOLINHORNPIANO

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 12 is about Frank's time in the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under Malcom Sargent and Adrian Boult, tours around the UK, the Isle of Man and Ireland. Since Frank ends this chapter with a tale of the horn section attempting to leave a concert as soon as it ended, not realising that Malcom Sargent was planning to conduct the Prelude to Act 3 of Wagner's Lohengrin as an encore, and therefore not being ready to play some prominent horn passages, Paula has chosen to end this episode with the last movement of Andrew Downes' Concerto for Four Horns and Symphony Orchestra, a work in which the horns are particularly prominent! This work was composed for the Horns of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra to perform with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in the Rudolfinum, Prague in 2002 and Frank attended the premiere. The recording is the same horn players (Radek Baborak, Stanislav Suchanek, Ondrej Vrabec, and Zdenek Divoky), with the Czech Radio Orchestra, which was broadcast on Czech Radio in March 2003. https://www.andrewdownes.com/Soloists-with-Orchestra.html#FOURHORNS

Ria talks with Chris McClelland about Ignite Northern Ireland, and how their accelerator program strives to help start-ups. He also speaks about the growing interest in Medtech companies, highlighting Ignite NIs partnership with four new Medtech startups and what the future holds for digital healthcare. In addition to this Chris elaborates on his work and how startups are an opportunity for change and excitement, especially in today's world. Chris McClelland in his early years initially planned to become an orchestral composer and studied musical composition at the Birmingham Conservatoire becoming acquainted with computer-aided-composition technologies. In 2009, he decided to sacrifice the completion of his Ph.D. to set up Ecliptic Labs in Dublin, Ecliptic Labs went on to build 80 mobile applications for companies such as eHarmony and Mailchimp. After serving as CEO of Elliptic Labs until 2013, Chris saw his next big business opportunity and decided to move on and build another company, called Brewbot. Chris developed an appliance for brewing beer with a companion app for the iPhone, the start-up raised $4.5 million, Chris eventually parted ways with the company. In 2018 he returned to Northern Ireland, IgniteNI founder Tristan Watson recognised the potential that Chris had to serve as a mentor to founders who were just getting started. Chris became an entrepreneur-in-residence (EIR) at IgniteNI, where he began by spending just two days a week mentoring participants on the program. Eventually, Tristan asked Chris to take over and run IgniteNI. Chris is now determined to bring the expectations of Northern Irish founding teams in line with their global peers, to build their confidence and prove that a fantastic company can be built anywhere in the world Chris McClelland on Twitter

Paula interviews world-renowned jazz guitarist and bassist, Fred Thelonius Baker.  Fred was a student at Birmingham School of Music (now Royal Birmingham Conservatoire) from 1979, and studied composition with Andrew Downes. Andrew went on to invite Fred to teach at Birmingham Conservatoire in 1989, which led to Fred being a major part of Andrew's new School of Composition and Creative Studies from the early 90s. Fred has been a permanent teacher/lecturer in accoustic and bass guitar there ever since. In the mid 90s, Andrew composed his Concerto for Guitar, Electric Bass Guitar and Strings for Fred playing Electric Bass with Simon Dinnigan playing Acoustic Guitar. They recorded it for CD in 1999 with string players from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Fred and Simon also arranged Downes' Piano Sonatina, Movement 2 for Electric Bass and Acoustic Guitar and also recorded this for the CD. All of these works are played throughout the episode. More information on the works and the CD can be found here: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Soloists-with-Orchestra.html#GUITARSTRINGS Fred Thelonious Baker is a Jazz guitarist and bassist from the English village of Tibshelf, Derbyshire. Born in 1960, Fred was given a ukulele when he was four by his father. Indeed, Fred's parents were a major influence in the beginning of his musical journey. A year later, he was given his first guitar and went on to learn the Classical guitar. During his mid-teens, Fred also began an interest in the bass guitar, an instrument with which he has since become synonymous. After studying at Chesterfield College, Fred went on to study at Birmingham School of Music (now Conservatoire) where he gained a GBSM and ABSM in teaching and performance. Around this time, at the invitation of Sir John Dankworth and Cleo Laine, Fred began teaching at Wavendon All Music Summer School. Since then, Fred has taught and given masterclasses at many universities, music colleges and music Summer schools including Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Berkeley College of Music, USA, St Petersburg Conservatory, Russia, London Brunel, Huddersfield, Sheffield, and Derby Universities. Since 1989, he has been a permanent teacher/lecturer in acoustic and bass guitar at Birmingham Conservatoire. Fred has performed all over the world as a session musician and soloist with a variety of musicians and ensembles including Courtney Pine, Nigel Kennedy, Billy Cobham, the CBSO, Fairport Convention, Robert Wyatt, Harry Beckett, Horace Parlan, Soft Machine, John Etheridge, Pip Pyle, Ric Sanders, Karen Street, Joe Sachse, Tony Levin, Phil Bates, Clive Bunker, Elton Dean, Simon Dinnigan, Geoff Eales, Liam Genocky and Phil Miller. As both a jazz guitarist and bassist, Fred has appeared extensively on many recordings. "Spinal Tap" from his solo accoustic guitar CD, Life Suite, will be played on this episode. Fred is currently working on the legacy of the late Phil Miller: https://philmillerthelegacy.com  

We talk to Erica Nockalls - Violinist, Singer Songwriter & Visual Artist. Erica joins us from her home in Paris to talk all about her early introductions to music and specifically the violin which would take her from her hometown near Doncaster to study at the Birmingham Conservatoire and the formation of her early band Fireswitch. It would be during this time that she would get the opportunity to join Indie Rock legends The Wonder Stuff which would introduce Erica's talents to music fans worldwide.This episode is brought to you by our friends Dead Skull Coffee.https://deadskullcoffee.co.uk/discount/STVPlease visit The Straight To Video Patreon Page to find out how you can help grow this show. https://www.patreon.com/stvpod

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 11 is about Frank's return to professional horn playing following the end of the war and the birth of his first child, Judith. He played for Sadlers Wells Ballet for a short time before gaining a position with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under Malcom Sargent. This epdisode ends with Folkdance from Andrew Downes' Suite for Brass Quintet No.1, because the performances of this work all over the UK, reflect the Sadlers Well tour Frank did, and the music is ideal for dancing to. The work is performed by Sennet Brass, recorded in 2020 as part of Andrew Downes' 70th Birthday year.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 10 describes Frank's time in Paris and Germany at the end of the war and also his gigging on his return to London. He is finally demobbed at the end of the chapter. The episode ends with the first movement of Andrew Downes' Symphony No. 1, for organ, brass, percussion and strings, recorded by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra under Ondrej Vrabec in 2016 for the Artesmon Label. This work depicts the horrors of nuclear war, so reflects my Grandad's uncomfortable retelling of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagesaki in 1945.  Find out more: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Orchestral.html#SYMPHONY1

Today I continue my conversation with Anna Brooks, a professional saxophonist, an international touring and recording artiste with the Brooklyn Funk Essentials and Joolz Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Anna is also a music arranger, music director, music preparation specialist, Teacher at the Birmingham Conservatoire, and singer. She is a mother of Sons who are twins and are 20 years old and at University. Today you'll hear how Anna coped with COVID-19, her tips for transition your music into a full-time professional career; how she started her music career 6 weeks after the birth of her sons; her music recordings; of her finance who is a Platinum recording artiste and trumpet player with Candy Dulfer – Anna's idol. By the way, this recording was taken during Lockdown, over Zoom so if you are watching or listening there will be a slight difference in the sound quality of the Show intro and the interview but the information is A plus! 01:55 Coping with COVID 11:10 Three tips to transition your music into a full time music career. 1) Passion 2) Study hard, practise hard. 3) Portfolio Career 19:52 Coping with Career Lows. 23:45 Late bloomer and single parenting 27:30 Recordings & Accolades Anna's Social Media: http://annabrooks.rocks/ www.instagram.com/annabrooks www.twitter.com/annabr00ks www.facebook.com/annabrookssax www.youtube.com/annabrooks Anna Brooks: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6bTX69msG9jlBTTFcwgtpV?si=3oPX36IKQAybfUttLR0iUw Anna Brooks Quintet: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2OCVJoYBVe1olPa13Acg7F?si=iC7PhWhRSqKI5xRR46SIpA Brooklyn Funk Essentials: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4r4tRC1EUpfUCLjwQXP5EA?si=BuWnoAFfR-ev8-iHswPIQQ Millicent's music industry coaching & education https://www.successbeyondthescore.com/ and for Millicent's free E-Booklet 'Revealed 25 Secrets of the Successful Gigging Musician, Singer, Rapper and Spoken Word Artiste'. Email: info@millicentstephenson.com

Hi and welcome to Success Beyond The Score. I'm Millicent Stephenson, thank you so much for joining me. Today I'm interviewing another great Guest. She is, Anna Brook, a professional saxophonist, an international touring and recording artiste with the Brooklyn Funk Essentials and Joolz Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. She is a music arranger, music director, music preparation specialist and Singer. She is also a teacher at the Birmingham Conservatoire. Anna is a mother of twin sons who are 20 years old and at University. How does Anna balance family commitments and touring? The pros and cons of having a music degree. Why self-taught rocks! Which is her favourite sax - soprano, alto, tenor and baritone which is her favourite sax? Dealing with mistakes, and what it's like being the only female in the Band. By the way, this recording was taken during Lockdown, over Zoom so if you are watching or listening there will be a slight difference in the sound quality of the introduction and the interview but the information is A-plus! 00.47 Intro. 03:46 Who is Anna Brooks and how she describes herself. 05:25 Balancing touring, stage work and parenting adult children with ADHD. 11:00 Which Sax? Early instruments. Self-learning the Sax, Jazz with a classical music degree. 18:02 Building a career through ‘learning as you Go'. Reading or not reading music. Dealing with musical mistakes in a professional setting. 23:30 The different routes musicians can take – Anna's pointers: Give 100%; Practising; Knowing your craft; People notice. Word of mouth. Every Gig is a build-up of your reputation; turn up on time; appearance; your foundations for recommendation; get your own material out there; years of practise generate experiences. 30:53 Being the only female in the Band. The drawbacks of being a mother and touring musician. The opinions of others and coming to terms with being a female in music. Anna's socials: Website: http://annabrooks.rocks/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/annabrooks Twitter: www.twitter.com/annabr00ks Facebook: www.facebook.com/annabrookssax YouTube: www.youtube.com/annabrooks Spotify Artists page: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6bTX69msG9jlBTTFcwgtpV?si=3oPX36IKQAybfUttLR0iUw Anna Brooks Quintet: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2OCVJoYBVe1olPa13Acg7F?si=iC7PhWhRSqKI5xRR46SIpA Brooklyn Funk Essentials: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4r4tRC1EUpfUCLjwQXP5EA?si=BuWnoAFfR-ev8-iHswPIQQ Millicent's free E-Booklet 'Revealed 25 Secrets of the Successful Gigging Musician, Singer, Rapper and Spoken Word Artiste' : https://www.successbeyondthescore.com/pl/120288 Website: https://millicentstephenson.com/ Email: info@millicentstephenson.com Education: www.successbeyondthescore.com

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 9 continues the tales of Frank's RAF tour of forward airfields in Belgium and Holland in 1944/5, including New Year's Day attacks, a near escape from a V1, a blissful visit to the Montgomerry club, and lessons with Jean Faulx, Principal Horn player of the Orchèstra Nationale of Belgium. The episode ends with the second movement of Andrew Downes' Centenary Firedances for Symphony Orchestra, performed by the Birmingham Conservatoire Symphony Orchestra under Jonathan Del Mar in 1989. This work conjures up the nostalgia, sadness, humour and sense of adventure in Frank's text, as well as the explosions depicted by the percussion section, originally written to go with fireworks as part of a big display for the Centenary of Birmingham celebrations in Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham in 1989, in front of 20,000 people.  Find out more: https://www.andrewdownes.com/Orchestral.html#SYMPHONIC

Joe Broughton is a non-stop phenomenon. Years and years ago, I navigated the dusty corridors in the old Birmingham Conservatoire building, to write a blog post about the Conservatoire folk ensemble. It was a thrill, ducking and weaving through that old building, getting closer and closer to the explosive NOISE that Joe was whipping up. 50 or 60 students of all shapes and stripes, contributing to an exhilarating blast of music. Now, of course, under lockdown. the Folk Ensemble can't perform. But here's hoping they will, in a year's time. And many's the Conservatoire graduate, now making their way in music, who passionately missed the time they spent with Joe   Since that time, I've talked to Joe lots, been to several Urban Folk Quartet gigs, and it's always been a complete pleasure. This is the first podcast he's done with me, and of course, a lot of the chat revolved around lockdown, which has stopped a lot of Joe and co's work in their tracks. It's not all doom and gloom, though – a chat with Joe is always a huge pleasure.  Check out the links, mostly supplied by Joe himself, in the companion Blog post A Life In Music: Joe Broughton

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 8 tells of his RAF tour to Brussels in 1944/5, including the uncomfortable journeys, the German propaganda, performances they gave and the dangers they faced. The episode ends with Andrew Downes' "Blazon" from his Suite for Six Horns, performed by the hornists of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra on their CD entitled "Andrew Downes: Music for Horns and Wagner Tubas", recorded for the Artesmon Label in 2008.  This CD is in memory of Frank Downes.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 7 tells of RAF Central Band Marches around  cities including Birmingham and Cardiff; of his wedding to Iris; and recounts Dennis Matthews' diary of events of his experiences of the RAF Central Band tour of America. At the end of the episode, the first movement of Andrew Downes' Sonata for 8 Horns is played since ithe premiere took place at the University of Mexico, near the route of the 40-hour train journey Dennis Matthews describes from Fort Worth, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona. The recording is of the Horns of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra for the Artesmon Label. The full work can be heard at andrewdownes.com, where you can also purchase the CD and WAV files. We are delighted to announce that our podcast has been chosen as no.19 of the TOP 30 COMPOSITION PODCASTS by Feedspot! https://blog.feedspot.com/music_composition_podcasts/   

315 ENSEMBLE, the self-titled debut album of composer/electric guitarist/sound artist Chris Cresswell’s sextet, recorded live at Birmingham Conservatoire in England. Cresswell’s 315 Ensemble is dedicated to exploring possibilities in electroacoustic music as well as commissioning works from outstanding composers worldwide. This album premieres two compositions by Creswell exclusively. Purchase the music (without talk) at: http://www.classicalsavings.com/store/p658/315_Ensemble.html Your purchase helps to support our show! Classical Music Discoveries is sponsored by La Musica International Chamber Music Festival and Uber. @khedgecock #ClassicalMusicDiscoveries #KeepClassicalMusicAlive #LaMusicaFestival #CMDGrandOperaCompanyofVenice #CMDParisPhilharmonicinOrléans #CMDGermanOperaCompanyofBerlin #CMDGrandOperaCompanyofBarcelonaSpain #ClassicalMusicLivesOn #Uber Please consider supporting our show, thank you! http://www.classicalsavings.com/donate.html staff@classicalmusicdiscoveries.com

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 6 tells of funny mishaps during RAF parades; touring south Wales and meeting his brother in Cardiff where he was performing with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic as the Lead Violist; and most importantly of his engagement to his wife Iris, and the lovely time they spent in Colchester, where she was working for the Fire Service. At the end of the episode, the first movement of Andrew Downes' 3rd Symphony is played since it is a work Iris loved. The recording comes from the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra's recording of all of Andrew's Symphonies. The full work can be heard at andrewdownes.com.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 5 tells of Frank's fascinating adventures with the RAF Central Band, as well as memories of the amazing horn playing of Dennis Brain. At the end of this episode, Andrew Downes' Concerto for Four Horns and Symphony Orchestra, 1st movement is played since many of the works mentioned in this chapter are horn concertos, and Frank was present at the premiere. The recording comes from the radio broadcast by the horns of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, for whom the work was written, with the Czech Radio Orchestra in 2003. The full work can be heard at andrewdownes.com.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 4 tells of Frank meeting his future wife, Iris; his successful audition for the RAF Central Band and adventures as a raw recruit including the forging of many longterm friendships with musicians such as Dennis Brain and Denis Matthews; his time studying with Frank Probyn at the Royal College of Music. At the end of this episode, Andrew Downes' Sonata for Four Horns, 1st movement is played to highlight the fact that Andrew followed in his father's footsteps by learning the French horn and by studying singing and composition at the Royal College of Music with Herbert Howells. The recording comes from the CD, Andrew Downes: Works for Horns and Wagner Tubas, decidated to the memory of Frank Downes.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 3 tells of the declaration of World War II, his first gig with the now CBSO, working with Adrian Boult and Malcom Sargent, air raids and fear. This episode ends with Andrew Downes' Symphony No.2, 1st movement since it depicts the fear and melancholy Frank experienced during this terrifying period. There are also sections that sound like air raids and bombs with angular strings, wailing ostinatos and loud percussion; and there is a sense of hope in parts, which depicts the excitement of performing such great music alongside such great musicians.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 2 tells of his first piano concerto performance; his first Radio broadcast on the BBC; his brother's kind gift of a French horn; piano and horn lessons; experiences playing the horn in amateur and professional orchestras; and the start of World War II. This episode ends with Andrew Downes' Symphony No.1 2nd movement since it depicts the horrors of Nuclear War.

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 1 tells of his life in industrial Walsall and his lucky fortune to have parents who encouraged him and his 9 siblings to learn instruments in their tiny house on a noisy street. This episode ends with Andrew Downes' Overture, Towards a New Age to depict the industrial Black Country since it was commissioned for the 150th Birthday of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

In this episode, we'll be hearing from Michael Seal, Associate Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, and now, podcaster. Michael has been creating a new podcast over the lockdown period called A Mic on the Podium. This is a series of fascinating conversations with his conductor colleagues, in which they openly discuss their journey into music, the art of conducting and their experiences of the profession. Check it out! We discuss the inspiration behind Michael's podcast and what he's been doing during this free time. We also learn about his background as a violinist and conductor, and hear some of his thoughts on the craft of conducting. Michael offers some really useful advice to young conductors towards the end of this discussion. Many thanks to Michael for talking especially for this podcast! Published 7th July 2020; interview recorded 12th June 2020. michaelseal.com amiconthepodium.podbean.com Michael Seal is the Associate Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), a unique appointment which recognises his work as Assistant Conductor, and the special relationship he has built with the orchestra. His in-depth knowledge of orchestras from an insider's position (he was a violinist with the CBSO early in his career) gives him a unique perspective and he quickly builds rapport and trust with the orchestras he works with. His energy and enthusiasm are infectious and he has built a reputation for outstanding results, delivered with great charm and often on a typically British tight rehearsal schedule. Michael has worked with many of the UK's finest orchestras, frequently being invited as guest conductor with the BBC orchestras and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic orchestras, as well as the Academy of St.Martin in the Fields, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra and Ulster Orchestra. Internationally, he has conducted the Brussels Philharmonic, Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra, KBS Symphony Orchestra, Norwegian Radio Orchestra, Odense Symphony Orchestra, Joensuu City Orchestra, Orquesta Académica del Instituto Superior de Arte del Teatro Colón, Orquesta Filarmónica de Buenos Aires and both RTÉ Concert and National Symphony Orchestras. Michael has a special bond with the CBSO Youth Orchestra, conducting them on numerous occasions, and being involved with them since their foundation. His love of opera led to critically acclaimed performances of Puccini’s Il Trittico at the Birmingham Conservatoire. He has also assisted both Sakari Oramo and Andris Nelsons in opera performances of Peter Grimes, Carmen, Der Rosenkavalier, Lohengrin, Tristan & Isolde and The Flying Dutchman. He recently made his debut with the Malaysian Philharmonic, Trondheim Symphony and WDR Funkhausorchester, as well as returning to RLPO, LPO, RSNO, Buenos Aires Philharmonic and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestras. He will also play an integral role in celebrating the 100th birthday of the CBSO in 2020/21.

In this weeks episode my guest Reed Bass and I talk on the effect of the corona virus on the music industry, the UK governments payment to the self employed and how musicians are coping without face to face interaction with their audience.Birmingham Conservatoire honours graduate in music Reed Bass has performed, recorded and programmed for a vast array of chart topping artists including Reggae acts Musical Youth and Steel Pulse's Gabbidon.As well as session musician, he leads his own band, playing a mixture of both original compositions and 21st Century re-working of Jazz, Soul and Reggae standards. Over the last 5 years his band have been regular fixtures at Mostly Jazz Festival, Birmingham Jazz Festival and Cheltenham Jazz Festival. This is an episode of insight into what it is to be a black male in the UK, finding overstanding in others differing opinions on race, religion and judgement, as well as the status of the uk music industry.Expect reality checks, two n two jokes, uk black culture, alongside a soundtrack paying homage to game changing artists including reed himself. All guests are asked to select 7 tracks and Reed's selections do not disappoint.Connect with Reed - https://www.facebook.com/reedbassofficialhttps://www.instagram.com/reedbass musichttps://www.twitter.com/reedbasshttps://www.youtube.com/MrReedBasshttps://www.reedbass.comNew uploads every Wednesday! Subscribe to be the first to hear it!Also check out Danieal's "Reggae Uprising" videos every Monday - Follow Danieal - Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/daniealmusic Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/DaniealMusicReed's Selections -Steel Pulse - Handsworth Revolutionhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3LFvaAD2-YSmiley Culture - Police Officerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgXahlmyUswProtoje ft Chronixx - Who Knowshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzqFmXZ8tOEKoffee - Toasthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8HoEvDh70YReedBass Live - Alvin's Yardhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYfBQxjiQv4Junior Byles - Fade Awayhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzlSVFtxb4cGarnett Silk - Kingly Characterhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lm7Czsjsm6g

Joining Tom Jackson, in a special programme recorded at the Birmingham Conservatoire as part of the Birmingham Literature Festival, to discuss the postcards from their pasts are writer and BBC 6Music broadcaster STUART MACONIE (Long Road From Jarrow, Pies and Prejudice, Adventures on The High Teas, The People's Songs) and award-winning poet LIZ BERRY (Black Country, The Republic of Motherhood). We uncover long-distance love, the best LP ever made, working class autodidacts and the mysteries of landscape. Along the way we visit the Wren's Nest, a steelworks, a series of royal arches, an Aberystwyth clifftop, the back streets of Salford and a New York church. Wish you were here? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode, I’m speaking with London-based guitarist and composer Laura Snowden.Hailed a ‘string sensation’ by BBC Music Magazine, British-French guitarist and composer Laura Snowden is acclaimed for her ‘poise and intensity’ (Guardian) and playing of ‘extraordinary depth’ (Strings, Classical Music Magazine). The first guitarist to graduate from the Yehudi Menuhin School, made possible by the Rolling Stones, she was invited by guitarist Julian Bream to premiere his latest commissions at Wigmore Hall in 2015 and 2017. Laura’s international appearances have since built rapidly, with festival debuts across Europe, China and the US, as well as concerto debuts with Norrköping Symphony Orchestra and Münchener Kammerorchester, and a recording of Lisa Streich’s guitar concerto Augenlider with the Deutsches Symphonie Orchester.Described by Classical Guitar Magazine as ‘linking guitar’s past, present and future’, Laura’s eclectic musical output has ranged from producing arrangements for Noah and the Whale frontman Charlie Fink to giving dozens of world premieres by composers including Julian Anderson, Errollyn Wallen and Olli Mustonen. She has also collaborated closely with her folk band Tir Eolas, appearing with them at Shakespeare’s Globe at the invitation of guitarist John Williams. As a composer, Laura’s music has been performed at Royal Albert Hall, Wigmore Hall and Sadlers Wells, commissioned by the Park Lane Group, Birmingham Symphony Hall and International Guitar Foundation, and broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Scotland and Hong Kong Radio 4.Laura currently teaches at the Yehudi Menuhin School and has given classes alongside performances at venues including the Royal College of Music, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Birmingham Conservatoire, Brussels Conservatoire, Uppsala International Guitar Festival, Altamira Hong Kong International Guitar Symposium, the Volterra Project in Italy and the Guitar and Lute Festival in Sweden.Laura’s principal teachers were Julian Bream, Richard Wright (Royal College of Music and Yehudi Menuhin School) and Gary Ryan (Royal College of Music).Laura and I cover a lot of topics. We talk about her history, working with Bream, composing, teaching, we get into the topic of expression and interpreting music, how she handles challenging things like self-doubt and those pesky existential questions like “what am I doing?”, and so much more. We had a great time over these two different interviews and I hope you enjoy. Featured clip from her composition titled Light Perpetuum, which was commissioned by VIDA Guitar Quartet, performed by them and saxophonist Amy Green, and appears on their latest album Bachianas.https://www.vidagq.com/http://www.laurasnowden.co.uk/

The unlikely path and health problems that led Violinist Alison Blunt from her classical violin training at Birmingham Conservatoire to where she is today. More about Alison at: www.alisonblunt.com/Home.html More about Chest of Toys at: www.riotensemble.com/ChestofToys Chest of Toys is supported by Sound and Music: www.soundandmusic.org/ Chest of Toys is produced by Chris Elcombe: twitter.com/chriselcombe

Tom Service asks conductor Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla about her plans for the City of Birmingham Orchestra, looks at the slave trade with composer Thierry Pécou, and explores the rarely-performed opera-oratorio, Le vin herbé. Tom visits Symphony Hall to talk to the exciting young conductor Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla about her ambitions for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and music education in Birmingham. He also discusses the challenges faced by the CBSO with Chief Executive Stephen Maddock following recent funding cuts from Birmingham City Council, plus an update from Julian Lloyd-Webber, Principal of the Birmingham Conservatoire, on the progress of their cutting-edge new building which is due to open its doors to students in September this year. Tom also talks to the French composer, Thierry Pécou, about Outre-mémoire, written for his friend, the pianist Alexandre Tharaud, which delves into the heavy history of the Carribbean island of Martinique and its slave trade, from where Pécou's own family is descended. Plus, as Welsh National Opera prepare to stage a performance of the rarely-performed opera-oratorio, Le vin herbé, Tom finds out why this work was pivotal in the compositional career of its creator, the Swiss composer Frank Martin, and puts forward a case for why we should hear more from this unique voice of 20th Century music. He talks to Nigel Simeone, who is an expert champion of Frank Martin's music, plus the director and conductor of Welsh National Opera's production of Le vin herbé, Polly Graham and James Southall.

Singer-songwriter and composer Laura Mvula meets jazz musicians Jason Yarde and Laura Jurd, and music broadcaster journalist Kevin Le Gendre, to discuss her musical inspiration, the visionary American jazz musician Miles Davis. 'He has always been and will always remain one of the greatest inspirations of my musical life. To me he was and is an icon, a pioneer, the unique innovator. He never held himself back - maybe that's what first attracted me to him and his sound'. Picking up on these opening remarks, and in the company of three contributors with contrasting perspectives on the man and his music, Mvula and her guests consider the impact and legacy of Miles Davis, a unique musician who repeatedly reinvented himself musically, and single-handedly shape-shifted the language of jazz, for nearly half a century. With glimpses of music from Miles Davis's vast discography, the programme paints a unique and personal portrait of one of the 20th century's greatest musical creators and iconclasts. Laura Mvula is one of the most exciting music talents to emerge in Britain in recent years. Growing up in Birmingham's Kings Heath to parents from Jamaica and St Kitts, Mvula cut her musical teeth singing in and directing local church and gospel choirs, and performing with soul group Judyshouse, before going on to Birmingham Conservatoire to study composition with, among others, composer Joe Cutler. After working as a music supply teacher in Birmingham schools, she sent demo recordings of her songs to record labels; the result has been spectacular international success that ranges from touring the world with her band, to composing for the Royal Shakespeare Company. Laura Mvula cites Miles Davis as one of her greatest influences - first urged by her father to watch documentaries about him, then given albums by a relative, her initial puzzlement grew into unbounded admiration for a black musician who refused utterly to be bounded by musical style or social position. His appetite for musical innovation and experiment, his dismissal of the idea of musical mistakes, his vision for successful creative collaboration - all of these characteristics and more combined to create a template for the sort of musician Laura Mvula has aspired to become. In this documentary feature, Laura sounds out her thoughts in the company of three guests, all of whom are equally great admirers of Miles Davis, but who approach him from different perspectives. Mvula's guests are: Kevin Le Gendre is a journalist and broadcaster with a special interest in black music. Deputy editor of Echoes, he contributes to a wide range of publications that include Jazzwise, MusicWeek, Vibrations and The Independent On Sunday and also appears as a commentator and critic on radio programmes such as BBC Radio 3's Jazz On 3 and BBC Radio 4's Front Row. Laura Jurd is a British award-winning trumpet player, composer and bandleader and BBC New Generation Jazz Artist for 2015-2017. Highly active throughout the UK scene, Laura has developed a formidable reputation as one of the most creative young musicians to emerge from the UK in recent years. In 2015 Laura received the Parliamentary Jazz Award for 'Instrumentalist of the Year' and in the past has been shortlisted for a BASCA British Composer Award, received the Dankworth Prize for Jazz Composition and the Worshipful Company of Musician's Young Jazz Musician of the Year award. Her band Dinosaur is one of the most vital and creative new ensembles in the UK today, and in September 2016, the band's debut album 'Together, As One' was released on Edition Records. Jason Yarde is a saxophonist, composer, arranger, producer, and musical director who writes music across various styles including jazz, classical, hip-hop, fusion, free improvisation, broken beats, R&B, reggae, soul, song writing and for a variety of media: his BBC Proms compositional debut 'Rhythm and Other Fascinations' won the first ever BASCA award for 'Contemporary Jazz Composition' in 2010. Yarde began playing alto and soprano saxophones with the Jazz Warriors while a teenager, and went on to MD this landmark orchestra. He is a longtime sideman of Louis Moholo, and has appeared in the big bands of Sam Rivers, Hermeto Pascoal, McCoy Tyner, Manu Dibango, Roy Ayers, and Andrew Hill. Producer: Lyndon Jones for Music Department, BBC Wales.

Laura Mvula is more than just a pop star; before she had a best-selling album and industry awards she studied composition at the Birmingham Conservatoire. In an in-depth interview in Private Passions, she reveals how she went from classical music student to chart-topping singer. In this warm and funny interview, Mvula talks to Michael Berkeley about her musical upbringing and about how church music, piano and violin lessons and performances for her aunt's a cappella group, Black Voices, initially went hand in hand with a crippling stage fright. At ten, she was so scared of performing that she howled on stage when the applause started and had to be rescued by her parents. She also talks about how as a student she began going to hear English choral music, but she had an ulterior motive: she fancied one of her fellow-students, a classical baritone, so she went to see him every time she could. It worked, they're now married; and she fell in love with choral composers like Eric Whitacre at the same time. And Laura reveals how at first she didn't quite at appreciate her big break from producer Steve Brown (she was too busy eating a banana). Following her appearance at this summer's Urban Prom, Laura Mvula explains why she doesn't believe in separating music into genres and why she remains a passionate listener to - and advocate for - classical music. In this programme she reveals how she still finds inspiration in classical composers for her own work. She plays a piece of Debussy and talks about how it inspired one of her own songs, 'Make Me Lovely'; she also chooses Elgar, Michael Tippett, William Walton, and 'Lush and Bluesy', a string piece by her teacher at the Conservatoire, Joe Cutler. Other musical choices include William Walton, Nina Simone and Miles Davis.

The haunting melancholy of Gresford, the Miners' Hymn, is the music explored in this week's programme. Written by a former miner, Robert Saint, to commemorate the Gresford pit disaster in 1934 it has been played at mining events ever since; most notably at the famous Durham Miners' Gala. Contributors to the programme include: (note: since the programme was broadcast, we've been contacted by the daughter of the man who wrote the words to Gresford: his name was George Leslie Lister and he wrote the words in 1970). Albert Rowlands, now 91, was working in the lamp-room of Gresford colliery when there was a devastating underground explosion. His father was among the men lost. Peter Crookston is the author of 'The Pitmen's Requiem' a book which explores the history of the great northern coalfield and the life of Robert Saint. Robert Saint's grandson, David Saint, is the acting principal of the Birmingham Conservatoire and organist at St. Chad's Cathedral in Birmingham. Playing through Gresford on the cathedral organ, he explains what makes the piece work at an emotional level. Cecil Peacock is a former miner, musician and music teacher. Illustrated by his own rendition of Gresford, he recalls playing Gresford at the funerals of 83 miners who died following the Easington Colliery disaster in 1951. Max Roberts is the Director of the hugely successful play, The Pitmen Painters, which tells the story of a group of miners in the 1930s who studied art and whose work became internationally renowned. He talks about why he decided to use the hymn Gresford - sung wonderfully in harmony - at the end of the play. Roy Dickinson attended the famous Durham Miners' Gala every year. As a small boy he was overwhelmed when he walked into the vast space of Durham Cathedral... hung with miners' banners proclaiming socialist slogans... with Gresford as the musical backdrop... bringing tears to the most hardened of miners' eyes. Canon David Griffiths is a former miner, and was once the priest of Gresford Parish Church. He commissioned a painting to commemorate the disaster and the men who lost their lives. With thanks to Trevor Sutherland and the Llay Welfare band who kindly allowed us to use their version of Gresford to illustrate David Griffiths' interview. Producer: Karen Gregor NB: Some sources say that 266 men lost their lives, some say 265. The figure given in the official report of the Public Inquiry by HM Inspector of mines is 265, which is why this number was quoted in the programme. This quote from Peter Crookston's book 'The Pitmen's Requiem' provides clarity (thanks to Mr Crookston for permission to quote): Of the 261 men killed by the explosion in the Dennis Section of the mine, at 2 am on Saturday 22 September 1934, only 11 bodies were recovered. All had died from poisoning by carbon monoxide, a gas known to miners as afterdamp, which is formed following an explosion of firedamp. Three members of a rescue brigade died from the same cause later that day as they tried to find survivors. 'Fire followed the explosion,' wrote the Chief Inspector of Mines, 'and more particularly an extensive fire in the main intake airway.which was fought continuously and unavailingly until the evening of the following day, by which time it was certain that all men unaccounted for must be dead and the conditions as regards the presence of inflammable gas had become imminently dangerous.' Both shafts of the colliery were capped and sealed off. For three days after the explosion other explosions followed as fire raged through the gas-filled section of the mine, one of them killing a surface worker when he was hit by debris blown out through a capping seal. This brought the total number of dead to 265. A man died months later and the miners' union said he had also been a victim of the disaster, so his name was put on the memorial in Wales, which is where the figure 266 comes from. But for those actually killed by the explosion, its aftermath and the gas, the figure is 265.