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The Classical:NEXT Podcast

Classical:NEXT

The Classical:NEXT Podcast explores the ideas and the people redefining classical and art music worldwide. Host David Taylor talks to leading voices from across the global community about the biggest challenges facing our sector, how they navigate an ever-changing landscape, and the emerging practices shaping the future of the art form.

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18 episodes
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Avg 40 min
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Wednesday · 43 min
Martin Cullingford on the power of the album in the digital age
In this episode, David talks with Martin Cullingford, Editor and Publisher of Gramophone Magazine. Martin holds a unique place in the industry. In his role, he listens to countless recordings each year, giving him a special perspective on the recording landscape of the classical music industry and its trends. But as someone who runs what was a print only publication, he has been one of the first to be impacted by the digital world and had to adapt to it long before many artists and arts organisations. This means that Gramophone magazine has already had to tackle many of the issues we face today. In this conversation, we dive into the role of the long-form album in an era dominated by streaming and single tracks. We look at how Gramophone has adapted to the digital age, from digitizing a century-old archive to launching weekly podcasts, while continuing to uphold authority and expertise in criticism. We also explore what makes a compelling album story, the resurgence of physical media, and why porous genre borders give us hope for the future of classical music. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
September 16 · 46 min
Leah Broad on why progress for women in classical music is not linear
In this episode, David talks with Leah Broad, a multi-award-winning writer, historian, and public speaker whose work focuses on twentieth-century cultural history, especially women in the arts. Leah is at the forefront of highlighting forgotten composers and discussing the barriers around programming their works. But it is her solution-focused approach to doing so that really stands out. In this conversation, we dive into the systemic barriers facing women composers and how a solution-focused approach can help revive forgotten repertoire. We look at the collaborative efforts needed across publishing, recording, and research to normalise music by women, and why reliance on a narrow canon limits audience growth. We also explore the non-linear history of women in 20th-century music, the role of storytelling in programming, and what we can learn from the trailblazing women musicians of the Second World War. You can also pre-order her new book Unsung, and there are more details on her website www.leahbroad.com Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
July 29 · 32 min
Lucas Ingle & Shin Kim on cross-border collaboration and the power of the consortium model
In this episode, David talks with American Saxophonist Lucas Incle and South Korean composer Shin Kim. Both Lucas and Shin attended Classical Next 2026 in Budapest, Lucas as part of the Classical Next fellowship program, and Shin as a showcase artist. After meeting there, they both began working on a collaboration to create new music, and we thought this would be the perfect thing to explore to see the power of making connections. In this conversation, we dive into how international conferences create spark points for cross-border artistic collaborations. We look at the consortium model and how it offers a sustainable, entrepreneurial pathway for commissioning new works, expanding repertoire, and reaching broader audiences. We also explore the practical mechanics of collaborating remotely across time zones, advice for pitching and showcasing new projects, and why young musicians must embrace vulnerability and connection. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
July 22 · 37 min
Caroline Whiddon on breaking the mental health stigma in the orchestral world
In this episode, David talks with Caroline Whiddon, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Me2, a classical music organization created for individuals with mental illnesses and the people who support them. The organization started in Vermont, USA in 2011 and has grown to include orchestras, choruses, and a flute choir located in three New England states. The unique nature of Me2’s work has garnered attention from the NBC Today Show, Al Jazeera, and the BBC, as well as numerous newspapers including the Boston Globe and the New York Times. A feature-length documentary about Me2’s work titled “Orchestrating Change” was broadcast on PBS stations across the U.S. in the fall of 2020, and you can find a link to this in the show notes. In this conversation, we dive into how classical music can serve as a vehicle for social change and a sanctuary for mental health. We look at how removing auditions and fees creates an inclusive, stigma-free environment, and why leading with love can transform orchestra management. We also explore the practical accommodations that help musicians thrive, the power of community music-making as part of mental health treatment, and how civic partnerships offer a new future for arts organizations. Show notes: Me2 - https://me2music.org/ “Orchestrating Change” - https://orchestratingchangethefilm.com/ Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
July 15 · 36 min
Chloé Charody on transforming the classical concert hall into a multi-disciplinary stage
In this episode, David talks with composer, show creator and refugee supporter Chloé Charody Widely regarded as an artistic entrepreneur as much as a composer, she has forged a new path in classical music by seamlessly integrating the physical language of contemporary circus, depth of classical music and the drama of opera within her compositional craft. In this conversation, we dive into the power of combining multiple art forms into one performance. We look at the importance of using art to highlight the plight of vulnerable people. We also explore how develop skills outside of traditional classical music education, how to begin creating multi-form works, and role of entrepreneurship for musicians. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
July 8 · 38 min
Søren Mikael Rasmussen on why orchestras must shift from selling tickets to building relationships
In this episode, David talks with Søren Mikael Rasmussen from culture consultants RasmussenNordic. RasmussenNordic help cultural institutions across Europe with new knowledge, innovation and strategy, and are the creators of “Get More Audiences – Tools for Orchestras and Ensembles” with the Danish orchestras and DEOO (Danish Ensembles, Orchestras, and Opera. These tools were also created in conjunction with audience research groups, bringing some fascinating insights into the user journey and thought processes of audiences all along their customer journey. In this conversation, we dive into the challenge that arts organisations face with audiences. We look at the toolkit and how it can be used to create a practical plan for developing audiences. We also explore the challenges of bringing innovation to the industry, what the user journey is for first-time audiences, and the benefits of creating offerings for your community. Resources - “Get More Audiences – Tools for Orchestras and Ensembles” https://www.rasmussennordic.dk/tools/ Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
July 1 · 43 min
Conductor Chad Goodman on the power of speaking to audiences
In this episode, David speaks with conductor Chad Goodman Described by Forbes as “an entrepreneur bringing innovation to classical music”, Chad was conducting fellow and assistant conductor to Michael Tilson Thomas at New World Symphony in Miami. Since then he has gone on to become the Music Director of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and guest conduct the Minnesota Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Utah Symphony, North Carolina Symphony, and San Francisco Chamber Orchestra amongst others. Chad is one of the most proactive and entrepreneurial conductors I know of, and he passes on his knowledge to young musicians, teaching them the business skills needed to successfully navigate the music world through workshops, and through his book “You Earned a Music Degree. Now What?” In this conversation, we dive into what it means to be a conductor in the modern age and how to develop the skills to succeed. We look at the power of speaking to audiences and how to work out what to say and how to say it. We also explore the role of entrepreneurship, how concert broadcasts help you develop your music, and the challenges that music graduates face. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
June 24 · 39 min
Sophie Kauer, Cellist and Actress from the Hollywood Film TÁR, on moving beyond specialization and embracing interdisciplinary creativity
In this episode, David speaks with cellist and actress Sophie Kauer. Known for putting herself at the forefront of evolving classical music and the way we see it, Sophie’s breakthrough came with a leading role in Todd Field’s feature film TÁR, starring Cate Blanchett. As well as performing all over the world, you’ll also see Sophie redefining what it is to be a musician today. Whether it's finding ways to meet audiences where they are, diving into the technical world of sound engineering, or bringing radical authenticity to her online community, Sophie’s multifaceted approach makes her one of the most dynamic and powerful communicators in the industry today. In this conversation, we dive into how moving beyond specialization and embracing interdisciplinary creativity is important for modern musicians. We look at the power of authenticity online, the need to meet audiences where they are, and the importance of being a good communicator. We also explore how musicians can make the most of opportunities when they are thrust into the spotlight, the role of social media, self-promotion, and entrepreneurship, and the power of saying no. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
June 17 · 33 min
Michelle Lynne on empowering musicians to build thriving careers
In this episode, David speaks with pianist and entrepreneur Michelle Lynne. Not only does Michelle embody what a modern musician is today, but she empowers other musicians to have their own thriving careers. As well as performing across the world with immersive performances, she is the co-Founder of The Fearless Artist Mastermind, coaching musicians on their careers, and has taught entrepreneurship at conservatoires in the Netherlands. In this conversation, we dive into the power of entrepreneurship and self promotion for musicians. We look at some of the challenges that musicians are facing in their careers and how to overcome them. We also explore the impact of AI, the power of telling stories in performances, and the power of continual learning. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
June 10 · 40 min
Hannah Seymour and Sinéad Walsh from EMPOWER on building ecosystems to promote gender equity
In this episode, David speaks with Hannah Seymour and Sinéad Walsh from EMPOWER. An oboist and a flautist, Hannah and Sinéad founded EMPOWER: Women Changing Music while studying at music colleges. EMPOWER: Women Changing Music is a platform championing women’s voices in music, both historically and today, through performance, commissioning, advocacy and community. Since its launch, they have worked with hundreds of performers and composers through concerts, commissions, panel discussions and collaborative projects across the UK and Ireland. In this conversation, we dive into why creating an ecosystem has benefits over just tackling one area when it comes to promoting fairness and gender equity in the music industry. We look at how EMPOWER: Women Changing Music was born out of Hannah and Sinéad’s experiences of studying at music college, the challenges of creating an arts organisation and how to work with your friends, and why we still need to have more organisations tackling the issues facing society. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
May 27 · 39 min
Simon Woods on empowering the next generation of audiences and leaders
In this episode, David speaks with Simon Woods, President and CEO of the League of American Orchestras. As well as having a unique insight into the orchestral world from championing the League’s members, which range from internationally famous orchestras to smaller community organisations, Simon has an extensive knowledge of the classical music sector after working in the industry for 4 decades. He previously led the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Seattle Symphony, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, as well as being a record producer with EMI Classics. All this makes Simon the perfect person to dive into the issues facing orchestras, both in North America, and the rest of the world. In this conversation, we look ahead to the League of American Orchestras Conference in Baltimore next week, and the discussions they will be having about how the funding and philanthropy landscape is changing in the face of the biggest transfer of generational wealth. We look at how orchestras can embrace uncertainty in an ever-changing world, how to address systemic resistance to change, and what inspiration international orchestras can take from American orchestras. Ultimately, Simon shares why the key to navigating these financial and cultural headwinds lies in empowering the next generation of audiences and leaders to help ideate the future of the art form. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
May 20 · 23 min
Iván Fischer on the future of classical music
In this episode, David introduces Iván Fischer’s Opening Keynote from Classical:NEXT 2026, a standout moment of the event that left delegates in deep discussion for days after. A Budapest native and musical polymath, Maestro Fischer shares an honest reflection on the future of classical music, drawing on his unique perspective as one of the most innovative musical minds of our time. He believes we are the "dinosaurs" of this art form, fighting to keep it alive in a world that’s losing interest. The traditional concert experience is at risk, with audiences struggling to focus and a shrinking repertoire that doesn't resonate with new generations. Fischer highlights the need for innovation in how we present and engage with classical music. It's not just about the performance, but understanding what today’s audiences truly need – an ideal conversation starter for the return of The Classical:NEXT Podcast. Join us in Katowice, Poland for Classical:NEXT 2027 from the 11th to the 14th of May: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
April 15 · 56 min
Classical:NEXT Podcast — LIVE in Budapest
This episode is a little bit different. Last week was the Classical Next conference in Budapest, which gave us the chance to do something a little bit special with a live show. Instead of the regular deep dive, we wanted to hear from people about the hot topics, ideas and statements from this year's conference. So, we made this episode into more of a show, with four amazing guests and live voting from the Classical Next audience. The panel featured: Chris Lloyd, Classical Music Journalist & Pianist Jamie Njoku-Goodwin OBE, Founder of JNG Advisory Nathaly Ossa Alzate, Social Impact and Cultural Manager Susanne Szambelan, Cellist and C:N 2026 Showcase Artist Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
April 1 · 41 min
Alexandra Dariescu on programming music that mirrors society
In this episode, David talks with international concert pianist and entrepreneur Alexandra Dariescu. Alexandra is one of the most visionary and dynamic musicians in our industry today. Passionate about championing gender equality, her unique approach to programming with orchestras has seen her concert season over the last few years include around 50% works by women, and has been a solution-focused voice in the industry on how to include works by underrepresented composers. She has also redefined what it is to be a soloist in the modern world today, with an entrepreneurial approach that, amongst other things, has seen her create the groundbreaking multimedia performance the Nutcracker and I, with over 100 performances across the world. In this conversation, we dive into why a more inclusive approach to programming is important. We look at some of the barriers that prevent change and how we can bring others on board. We also explore how the role of a soloist has changed, the importance of entrepreneurship, what makes a good album, and how to prepare music students for tomorrow Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
March 18 · 47 min
Deborah Rutter on Political Resilience and Future-Proofing for Cultural Organisations
In this episode, David talks with Deborah Rutter, an arts executive with nearly 5 decades of experience across major major US institutions including the Chicago Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and LA Philharmonic. In 2014 she became the first woman to serve as president of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a role she held until February 2025 when she left as part of a major overhaul of the Center’s leadership by the second President Trump administration. Deborah is currently Vice Provost for the Arts at Duke University, a role she began in September 2025. The world is an increasingly political and polarised place, so Deborah’s experience makes her the perfect person to share lessons on Political Resilience and Future-Proofing for Cultural Organisations that can apply to any institution or arts leader, regardless of location or size. In this conversation, we dive into the relationship between cultural institutions and politics. We look at how to build political resilience and the power organizations have sitting at the cross roads of culture and national identity. We also look at how to connect organisations to local communities, the challenges facing artists and administrators in the modern world, and how to support leaders in an increasingly politicised environment. Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
March 4 · 39 min
Aubrey Bergauer on the power of embracing change
In this episode, David talks with Aubrey Bergauer, arts leader, consultant, author of the book “Changing the Narrative, and former CEO of the California Symphony Orchestra. Aubrey is a powerhouse in the industry, and as the name of her book would suggest, a huge advocate of todays topic… change. In this conversation, we dive into the reasons as to why change is important. We look at some of the barriers that prevent change and how we can be more nimble. We also explore the power of embracing change and the benefits of having a more commercial and business-minded approach, before looking at some of the future challenges we might face. Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
February 18 · 51 min
Jessica Phillips, Graduate Studies Faculty at Juilliard and Clarinettist at The Met, on bridging the gap between conservatoire training and the reality of the industry
In this episode, David talks with Jessica Phillips, a clarinetist at the Metropolitan Opera, a Graduate Studies faculty member at Juilliard School of Music, a board member of the League of American Orchestras, and a consultant. This unique combination of roles gives Jessica a rare 360-degree view of the industry. It makes her the perfect person to discuss how we train the next generation of musicians, and how we can adapt as an industry to support them. In this conversation, we dive into the philosophy of the 'portfolio career' and what it really means for a musician to be an entrepreneur. We explore the disconnect between traditional conservatoire training and today's rapidly changing industry. We also look at how to bring institutions and long-standing faculty along on the journey of change. And, we discuss how the next generation is already redefining what success looks like in the arts. Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com
February 4 · 42 min
Victoria Dietrich, Head of Digital at Zurich Opera House, on bridging the gap between digital innovation and real-world connection
In this debut episode, David Taylor speaks with Victoria Dietrich, who holds a uniquely dual role as the Head of Digital Development and Audience Engagement at the Zurich Opera House. Victoria sits right at the intersection of two worlds that are often kept separate: high-tech innovation and real-world community building. Since joining the team in Zurich, she’s been tasked with exploring how traditional opera houses can use emerging technologies to broaden its reach while staying true to their core. In this conversation, we dive into the philosophy of ‘opening up’ an institution and what it really means to create meaningful touchpoints with a city. We explore the balance between respecting a traditional audience while actively inviting in the new, and why the secret to engagement might lie in moving beyond ticket discounts toward building genuine, long-term relationships. We also discuss the potential of immersive technology to turn complex musical structures into physical experiences, and how a culture of collaboration can help us navigate the unknown frontiers of the digital world. Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn The Classical:NEXT Podcast: Hosted by David Taylor Produced by Aliena Haig Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast www.classicalnext.com

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