Pitch Me Classical
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Saxophonist and presenter YolanDa Brown and players from the London Philharmonic Orchestra pitch their thoughts on some of classical music’s most-asked questions, with plenty of chit-chat and laughter along the way. Instagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraTikTok: @lporchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestraYoutube: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Do the brass really have the most fun?
What makes a typical brass player? What really happens on a ‘viola night’? Can the saxophone truly be considered a brass instrument? And just how do you clean a tuba? YolanDa, Lee and Claudia dive into the world of brass, weighing the pros and cons of being part of the brass section and comparing it to the rest of the orchestra. They share favourite brass moments, discuss the sometimes notorious reputation of brass players, and attempt to pinpoint the characteristics that make brass players uniq
Ba-ba-ba-baaaa… Does Beethoven 5 have the best opening?
It’s one of the most famous pieces of classical music, but why? The beginning of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony has an iconic status, but is it one of the best openings to a piece of music? YolanDa, Tom and Cassi dig deeper into those famous four notes and along the way they share other opening bars which are just as recognisable, arresting, or scary. It’s a tricky passage to play in sync with other players, so they discuss tips and tricks to ensure it gets off to a successful start. Plus, in the qu
Viola - what’s the joke?
Why is the viola the butt of so many jokes? Does the viola deserve to be mocked, or is it the unsung hero of the orchestra? YolanDa Brown is joined by Martin and Minn to unpack the origins of viola jokes and demystify why violas so often get the short end of the stick - or should we say bow? But for Martin and Minn the viola’s status as a comedic goldmine sometimes has wider implications that aren’t necessarily positive, for example putting people off learning the instrument, affecting the way c
All classical music sounds the same, right?
What makes classical music sound like classical music? And what does the word ‘classical’ mean anyway? YolanDa Brown is joined by Kristina and Mark to give their take on these big questions. They do their best to figure out where the line is between classical and non-classical music, whether film music is classical, and what makes classical music classical. And they attempt to pin down why the word ‘classical’ came to be used to describe this genre of music in the first place. Plus, Mark and Kri
What should I wear?
Tails? Long black? Stilettos? A dinner jacket? Concert dress is an important part of the visual appearance of an orchestra, but what is the dress code, how flexible is it, and is it old-fashioned? YolanDa, Mark and Alice all have their preferences when it comes to what they like to wear on stage. This conversation covers everything from what happens when you ask a tailor to make you a new set of tails, whether you need to iron a shirt when only a sliver of it is visible, why orchestras dress the
When do I need to clap?
Round of applause, please! YolanDa, Hugh and Simon evaluate the pros and cons of applause, sharing their experiences both in the concert hall and beyond. Why do we clap, when should we clap, and what’s the etiquette? Together they cover pieces where people clap when they shouldn’t, pieces where it simply feels wrong to show your appreciation by clapping, and rock and jazz concerts where it’s common to clap every few minutes. But this episode isn’t just about putting your hands together - they al
Is Mozart the G.O.A.T.?
When asked to name a classical composer, why does everyone always say Mozart? He’s one of classical music’s most famous composers (perhaps THE most famous), but does he deserve his reputation, and is he the G.O.A.T.*? YolanDa, Mark and Alice discuss Mozart’s high points and low points, his best pieces and his worse, and how he writes for different instruments. They also touch on what’s special about him and whether other composers are more deserving of fame. Plus, this episode’s quiz reveals str
Welcome to Pitch Me Classical
Welcome to Pitch Me Classical! Saxophonist and presenter YolanDa Brown and players from the London Philharmonic Orchestra pitch their thoughts on some of classical music’s most-asked questions, with plenty of chit-chat and laughter along the way. Instagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraTikTok: @lporchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestraYoutube: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 7
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 7. Why do trumpets transpose, and do they enjoy it? How has recording film music changed over the years? And what does retirement look like for orchestral musicians? Plus, singer Brindley Sherratt shares his top tips on preparing to sing an operatic role.With trombonist Mark Templeton, violinist Minn Majoe, horn player Mark Vines, tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis, double bass player Simon Carrington, trumpeter Anne McAneney, bass Brin
Retirement
YolanDa Brown sits down with three former LPO members - violinist Geoff Lynn, bassoonist Gareth Newman, and oboist Joan Graham - to explore retirement. When they retire, some musicians sell their instruments and never play a note again. Others reduce the amount of performing they’re doing to make more time for teaching. The former LPO members chatting to YolanDa today all approached retirement in very different ways.Geoff, Gareth and Joan tell YolanDa what they miss about their orchestral y
Holst’s The Planets Revisited
YolanDa Brown joins composer Colin Matthews, Principal Conductor of the LPO Edward Gardner and flautist Juliette Bausor to revisit Gustav Holst’s most famous work, The Planets.Faber recently published a new facsimile edition of Holst’s The Planets, edited by Colin Matthews, and today’s episode explores its significance and the unique insights that the original handwritten manuscript can give us. Colin, Ed and Juliette also talk to YolanDa about their favourite and least favourite movements,
Music from the Movies
Today we’re dimming the lights, turning off our phones and filling up a giant bucket of popcorn to get the lowdown on music for film and TV.Film score production has changed a lot in recent years, and LPO musicians timpanist Simon Carrington and tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis have seen it all; from Elmer Bernstein’s skilful, old school approach, to the meticulous modern day techniques of click tracks and multitrack recording.Simon and Lee tell YolanDa about the film scores which soundtrack their ear
Wagner’s Epic Ring Cycle
Today we’re going deep in the music of Wagner - and specifically The Ring cycle, his collection of 4 monumental operas: Das Rheingold, Die Walküre, Siegfried, and Götterdämmerung Even if you haven’t seen these live, you’re probably aware that these are absolute behemoths of the opera house - with heroism, love, death, gigantic orchestras and big tunes that need big voices. Bass Brindley Sherratt is tackling the role of Hagen in Götterdämmerung, and he explains how memory, text and costume a
From the Archive: Saint-Saens’ “Organ” Symphony with Anna Lapwood
Today, another one of our top episodes from the archive… YolanDa Brown joins organist and conductor Anna Lapwood, piccolo player Stewart McIlwham and violinist Martin Höhmann to take a close look at Camille Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No.3 - his organ symphony. They discuss the challenges of communicating with the conductor from the organ, how to get the perfect tempo so those mammoth chords have maximum impact, and how the flutes and violins manage the difficult offbeat rhythms. Anna also r
Inside Brahms’ Four Symphonies
YolanDa Brown sits down with contrabassoonist Simon Estell and clarinettist Tom Watmough for a deep dive into Brahms’ Four symphoniesBrahms’ symphonies are right at the beating heart of orchestral repertoire for very good reason: audiences love their romanticism and drama, and players can’t get enough of those gorgeous melodies. But how do you keep the music fresh when it’s played so often? Tom and Simon reveal how every conductor creates new challenges for the orchestra, and how Brahms was insp
Inside Stravinsky's Firebird
YolanDa Brown talks to trumpeter Anne McAneney and cellist Francis Bucknall and explores Stravinsky’s Firebird. The Firebird is a hugely popular work, but what makes it so enduring? Anne, Francis and YolanDa discuss its story, Stravinsky’s revolutionary writing, and how to keep the music sounding fresh on stage and in recordings. They also mention a number of related works and why Stravinsky’s music lends itself so well to education projects. Plus, they reveal what changes when a piece
On the Road Again
YolanDa Brown joins violinist Minn Majoe and horn player Mark Vines to share their touring tips and tricks.Hot off the plane from their recent tour to Asia, Minn and Mark share the highlights and lowlights of the trip with YolanDa, who brings in her own touring experiences. They discuss the difficulties of transporting large instruments, suitcase essentials, and how to navigate washing your clothes when you’re away from home. Plus, ideas for what to do on a day off abroad…If you have any qu
Good Tidings We Bring
YolanDa Brown joins harpist Rachel Masters and trombonist Mark Templeton to talk all things festive in this special Christmas episode. In this episode of LPO Offstage YolanDa and her guests share their favourite musical Christmas memories. They discuss the magic of carol singing, the pros and cons of seasonal gigs, and their favourite Christmas repertoire including some amusing alternative lyrics. Plus, they bust some myths about busking and share their tips and trips for performing in
From the Archive: Lead Singer
We’ve been dipping into the LPO Offstage archives and revisiting our favourite episodes. In this one, YolanDa Brown sits down with baritone Roddy Williams, horn player Johnny Ryan and cellist Kristina Blaumane to hear what singers can learn from instrumental playing, and why the issues of balancing a voice with an orchestra may not be what you expect. YolanDa also discovers how the players transition from the concert stage to the opera pit and back again, and finds out about the surround so
From the Archive: Carry on Trucking
Here’s another favourite episode from the LPO Offstage archives! YolanDa Brown chats to Damian Davis about the celebrated LPO truck, complete with a hydraulic lift and kitchenette, and asks how he safely transports hundreds of instruments to concert halls around the world. She also hears bass player Laura Murphy’s point of view - when do you take your ‘second’ instrument, and what do you absolutely not put in your instrument case when you go on tour…?If you have any questions you’d like to
From the Archive: Where are we today?
We’re taking you back to one of our favourite episodes of LPO Offstage from the archives. This episode is all about venues and YolanDa Brown talks to violinist Tania Mazzetti and trombonist Mark Templeton to discover insights about how different acoustics can radically affect performance, as well as the best (and worst) backstage facilities. And quite a lot of beer. And sausages. If you have any questions you’d like to put to the musicians, please email offstage@lpo.org.uk, and you might be
What are you listening to?
If you’re playing and listening to music all day for your job, what do you listen to the rest of the time? In this final episode of Series 6, YolanDa Brown sits down with Simon Carrington (principal timpanist) and Alice Ivy-Pemberton (violinist and co-leader of the LPO) to talk about their personal relationship with music… They discuss music that imbues every day walking with meaning and purpose, getting in the zone while listening to music on the train, and sometimes just needing silence (
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 6
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 6, from alternative career paths, to romance in the orchestra, and a deep dive into Holst’s Planets. There’s also advice from Anna Lapwood about how to get into classical music, and Ben Gernon gives us a tour of the orchestra pit at Glyndebourne opera house. Plus, Lee and Dave’s must have tour items… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @
Sue and Hugh
YolanDa Brown joins cor anglais player Sue Böhling and double bass player Hugh Kluger to find out the reality of life as an orchestral musician, from finding the best bakeries in South East London to having a whole additional career as an interior designer. In this episode of LPO Offstage YolanDa sits down to chat with Sue and Hugh about their must have items on tour, what they listen to outside their job, and some surprising facts about where their careers might have gone if they didn’t ch
Holst’s The Planets
YolanDa Brown joins trumpet player Anne McAneney, cellist Francis Bucknall and harpist Rachel Masters to discuss Gustav Holst’s most famous work, The Planets. Space, the solar system and intergalactic travel have been depicted in music and films for decades, but Gustav Holst was there early, trying to communicate the vastness of the planets (and their mythical links) with music. In this episode of LPO Offstage the players reveal what the piece is really like to play, the techniques Hol
From the Archive: Keeping in Shape
We’ve dug into the archives to share one of our favourite episodes of LPO Offstage - Keeping in Shape. Facing the fear of fear, admitting you might not always want to go to those after concert drinks, and searching for the best strengthening exercises to avoid injury as a musician and a conductor are just a few of the tips and topics discussed by YolanDa Brown, cellist Elisabeth Wiklander and conductor Karina Canellakis. They discover that being in top shape for your job as a musician is a
Behind the Scenes at the Opera with Ben Gernon
Every summer, the LPO heads down to Glyndebourne in Lewes, East Sussex for a season as one of the opera house’s resident orchestras. In this episode of LPO Offstage, YolanDa meets conductor Ben Gernon ahead of the evening’s performance of Donizetti’s opera ‘The Elixir of Love’. As Ben and YolanDa chat about what it’s really like to conduct an opera, they wander through the opera house, the famous pit, gardens, backstage and Ben’s dressing room, stumbling upon a giant cake, the wig room, and
Brass Lowdown
YolanDa Brown joins tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis and trombone player Dave Whitehouse to get the inside scoop on the low brass section of the orchestra. What exactly is the low brass section? As well as their respective trombone and tuba, Dave and Lee have to play multiple instruments ranging from the cimbasso, to the alto trombone, to the sousaphone and the ‘baritone thingy’. But do they all actually sound good? Dave and Lee reveal their thoughts on these mysterious instruments, and take us
Sussex Life
YolanDa Brown joins Eastbourne’s Arts Ambassador Chris Connelley, LPO viola player Kate Leek and clarinettist Tom Watmough to find out what their top tips are for visiting Sussex, the LPO’s second home. As well as the Royal Festival Hall, the LPO performs regularly in Brighton, Eastbourne and Lewes in East Sussex for the Glyndebourne season. And quite a few of the musicians live in the area. What brings the musicians to that part of the world? And what recommendations do they have for
Saint-Saens’ “Organ” Symphony with Anna Lapwood
YolanDa Brown joins organist and conductor Anna Lapwood, piccolo player Stewart McIlwham and violinist Martin Höhmann to take a close look at Camille Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No.3 - his organ symphony. They discuss the challenges of communicating with the conductor from the organ, how to get the perfect tempo so those mammoth chords have maximum impact, and how the flutes and violins manage the difficult offbeat rhythms. Anna also reveals how she’s able to practise on concert hall organs,
When you’re ready…
The very thought of an audition might make you nervous, but what can you learn from being assessed in this way, and what do the musicians look for when they’re sitting on an audition panel? YolanDa Brown joins cellist Kristina Blaumane and trombone player Mark Templeton to get an inside look at orchestral auditions: from managing nerves, to how to distinguish between players when you have to listen to up to 80 hours of audition recordings… Plus, a listener asks how the musicians stay m
Inside Brahms’ Symphony No.1
Johannes Brahms has a special place in many musicians’ hearts - but what is it about his writing that is so captivating? Today on LPO Offstage, YolanDa Brown joins violinist Fiona Higham, timpani player Simon Carrington, and horn player Mark Vines to find out how Brahms writes for their instruments, why the horn is not actually playing the notes as they are on the page, and how different conductors can completely change the feeling of Brahms’ first symphony.YolanDa also broaches the questio
Strings attached
Lots of musicians find love within the music industry - whether it’s at college, singing in a choir or playing in studios… But what’s it really like living and working with your partner? YolanDa Brown joins violinist Minn Majoe and viola player Martin Wray to catch up about what they’ve been up to recently… From chamber ensemble ‘speed dating’, to Minn’s blog about where to eat on tour, to learning languages and travelling to little explored places, Minn and Martin reveal what an orche
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 5
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 5, and also can’t resist delving into some earlier episodes. Expect mysterious triangle insights, a look at the practical side of writing music, an explanation of why Beethoven might sound a bit strange on first listen, and a classical music fan who you may know from a very famous baking competition… With Andy Barclay, Brett Dean, Karina Canellakis, Jürgen Krauß, Elena Dubinets, Sarah Holmes, Joe Lovano, Dav Shiel, Elisabeth Wik
Gardner’s Question Time
YolanDa Brown is joined by the LPO’s Principal Conductor Edward Gardner for a quick fire round to find out the answers to questions such as what makes the perfect baton and what it’s like working with different orchestras, as well as his top tips for young aspiring conductors, and how trusting yourself in the moment is key to performing. Plus, Ed reveals a few particularly embarrassing conducting moments… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra #
The Triangle!
YolanDa Brown is joined by the LPO’s Principal Percussionist Andy Barclay to find out everything she can about a very famous instrument – the triangle. It may conjure up memories of school music lessons or the theme from the Pink Panther but the triangle also has an illustrious history and is used widely in all forms of music from pop to classical. It's also remarkably difficult to play (well) and in this episode YolanDa and Andy immerse themselves in all things triangle: from tings vs jang
What can technology do for us?
What’s the role of technology in music? Does it enhance creativity, and can it be a hindrance? YolanDa Brown is joined by LPO cellist Elisabeth Wiklander and session drummer Dav Shiel, who is Project Manager and Associate Musician at Drake Music - a charity that helps disabled people reach their musical potential through the use of assistive technology. From using an iPad to compose, to an amplified orchestral concert on a motorway overpass, to teaching on Zoom, and using eye gaz
Inside Beethoven’s Symphony No.3: ‘Eroica’
What is so special about Beethoven? YolanDa Brown gets an inside view of what it’s like to play and conduct Beethoven’s third symphony from the perspective of conductor Karina Canellakis and horn player Annemarie Federle. Karina explains why Beethoven’s music is ‘a universal form of musical communication’ and together with Annemarie they consider how much you should take a composer’s life into account when you play their music. Karina also take us on a journey through the symphony, together
Youth vs Experience
YolanDa Brown sits down with double bass player Laura Murphy and horn player Gareth Mollison to find out what it means to be an ‘experienced’ musician and how things have changed in the orchestra over the years from technology to travel.Gareth reveals what’s different about being in the LPO now compared to when he joined in 1986, and Laura muses on what might change in the future. YolanDa also asks the question of when you should put down your instrument for good, and whether the number of years
A Place to Call Home
YolanDa Brown sits down with the LPO’s Artistic Director Elena Dubinets, and violinist and President of the LPO’s board Martin Höhmann to ask how you make sure a symphony orchestra stays relevant, and what it takes to curate a season of music. Elena Dubinets reveals the careful thought, deliberation and research behind the themes in the LPO’s current season ‘A Place to Call Home’: from displacement, to love letters to home. And Martin Höhmann gives an insight into the players’ role in this
From the Archive: Welcoming the World
Today, a special episode from the LPO Offstage archive… YolanDa Brown finds out what it’s like for some of the LPO players who have moved to the UK to live and work in London. Yang moved to London from China, Nynke from the Netherlands and Hugh from Australia, so how do their diverse cultural backgrounds coalesce in the UK? They discuss issues relating to family and friends in far off countries, different approaches to programming and orchestral auditions, and it wouldn’t be possible t
Elgar’s Symphonies
Ahead of the LPO’s performances of both of Elgar’s symphonies in January 2023, YolanDa Brown sits down with violinist Tom Eisner, cor anglais player Sue Böhling and horn player Martin Hobbs to find out what is so special about Elgar’s music. Elgar’s symphonies bring back memories for the musicians, but is it useful to always associate Elgar with ‘Britishness’? YolanDa also asks why you need so much stamina to play the two symphonies (especially for wind players), and Tom reveals that you ca
Jazzing up the Orchestra
YolanDa Brown joins jazz saxophonist Joe Lovano and LPO double bass and bass guitar player Tom Walley to find out what role the saxophone has within the orchestra, and how the worlds of jazz and orchestral playing come together. YolanDa, Joe and Tom get stuck into a discussion about musical genres and expression: from improvising with an orchestra to different playing techniques, emulating vocal lines on the saxophone, along with some legendary stories. Plus, a chat about the UK premie
Mahler’s Symphonies
Ahead of the LPO’s performances of Gustav Mahler’s music in their 22/23 season, YolanDa Brown uncovers both the epic side and the more intimate sounds of Mahler, what it’s like to play his symphonies with very different conductors over the years, and the high risk but high reward of the offstage bands.YolanDa also finds out that there’s often room for interpretation in the percussion parts, and Tom explains the ‘clarinets in the air’ moment.Plus, a very special anniversary for Keith… Produc
LPO Superfans
Welcome to Series 5 of LPO Offstage! To kick off the new series, YolanDa Brown joins The Great British Bake Off star and LPO fan Jürgen Krauss, flute player Sue Thomas and LPO supporter Joanna Williams to find out what it means to be a fan of the LPO: from childhood memories of the orchestra, to favourite conductors and LPO cakes.Plus, what a supportive fan base means to the players… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrch
Next Season
YolanDa Brown joins Principal Conductor of the LPO Ed Gardner, trumpet player Anne McAneney and double bass player Sebastian Pennar to find out how to prepare for a new season… How do you connect different pieces in a concert, how do you thread musical themes across a whole season, and what are the musicians most looking forward to playing in the LPO’s 2022-2023 concerts?Plus, Seb reveals the one drawback of the choir joining the orchestra: the tea queue...Produced by Tandem Productions for
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 4
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 4. How did Howard Shore write the score for Lord of the Rings, how does Lee approach a rare tuba solo, what can singers learn from instrumental playing, and what happens when everyone thinks a cadenza has ended… except the soloist? With Howard Shore, Johnny Ryan, Roderick Williams, Mark Templeton, Stewart McIlwham, Julia Fischer, Richard Waters, Pieter Schoeman, Simon Carrington, Lee Tsarmaklis, Catherine Edwards, and Paul Richa
In the Spotlight
YolanDa Brown joins pianist Catherine Edwards, tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis and bass clarinet player Paul Richards to discover what it’s like to play an instrument that only has rare moments in the spotlight… How do you prepare for the ‘moment’ when you emerge from the orchestra after many bars rest? And what happens if it all goes wrong?Catherine, Lee and Paul reveal what the roles of their very unique instruments are within the texture of the orchestra, and why they have to be so versatile… 
Inside Shostakovich’s Symphony No.10
YolanDa Brown gets an inside view of what it’s like to play Shostakovich’s 10th Symphony from the perspective of trombonist Mark Templeton, violinist Lasma Taimina and piccolo player Stewart McIlwham. We find out what lies behind the notes of this dramatic piece, both for the musicians who play it and for Shostakovich himself. From favourite scary moments to Stewart continuing in the footsteps of his piccolo playing father, there’s lots to explore.Plus, if the players could play any other i
Getting paid to hit things
YolanDa Brown joins timpanist Simon Carrington and percussionist Karen Hutt to discover the ins and outs of percussion playing in an orchestra: from how you ‘play’ bubble wrap, to the complex and never ending task of tuning timpani… Plus, an in depth discussion of one of the most important (and surprisingly difficult to play well) instruments in the orchestra: the triangle. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInsta
Lord of the Rings
YolanDa Brown joins legendary film composer Howard Shore (down the line in New York), the LPO’s principal percussionist Andy Barclay and principal trumpet player Paul Beniston to find out how Howard approached writing the music for Lord of the Rings, and gets an insight into what it was like to play from Andy and Paul. Back in 2001, the LPO recorded the music for the first Lord of the Rings film: The Fellowship of the Ring. At that time, they didn’t know what a legendary recording it would
Lead Singer
YolanDa Brown sits down with baritone Roddy Williams, horn player Johnny Ryan and cellist Kristina Blaumane to hear what singers can learn from instrumental playing, and why the issues of balancing a voice with an orchestra may not be what you expect. YolanDa also discovers how the players transition from the concert stage to the opera pit and back again, and finds out about the surround sound experience Roddy has when he’s got some bars rest…Plus, Roddy explains the lengths singers have to
LPO DNA
YolanDa Brown talks to trombone player Dave Whitehouse and violinists Tom Eisner and Minn Majoe about the LPO’s identity as an orchestra.We’ve heard a lot about the LPO being a ‘friendly’ orchestra, but what does this really mean? And how do the musicians define the sound of the LPO? Plus, how things have changed over a 36 year career….Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraFacebook:
From the Archive: Courage!
Today, another one of our top episodes from the archive… YolanDa Brown talks to horn player Mark Vines and leader of the orchestra Pieter Schoeman about how to get on top of an inevitable (and essential) aspect of being a musician: nerves. Dry mouth, the shakes, cold sweats, ‘butterflies’ in the stomach, these are all things anyone who performs in public will be able to identify with. But how do musicians learn to manage their nerves so their performances aren’t affected, and can they actua
From the Archive: Where are my reeds?
We’re taking you back to some of our favourite episodes of LPO Offstage. Today - touring!YolanDa Brown is joined by flautist Sue Thomas, tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis and Tours Manager Grace Ko to find out about travels with the the LPO: From logistical challenges, audience reactions and the juggle of family life, to hotel incidents, shrunken pants and the infamous LPO Bus 3... Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram
Fixing a hole…
YolanDa Brown sits down with the Personnel Manager of the LPO Andrew Chenery and cor anglais player Sue Böhling, to discover the secret art of fixing. From finding a last minute replacement musician, to looking for a bunch of banjo players, Andrew and Sue reveal the ins and outs of how to actually fix the people needed to play the music. Plus, how do you get on the list? And what happens when you can’t find anyone to step in? Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharm
All the World’s a Stage
YolanDa Brown sits down with the stage managers of the LPO to discuss how a concert actually gets on the stage: from finding a piano that can be hit with chains, to awkward instrument logistics on tour. YolanDa also discovers what goes into preparing the stage for a complex percussion concerto, and why the harp has its own special duvet. Plus, a simple message from the stage managers to musicians everywhere: look after your own pencil… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London
How did we get here? Part 2
YolanDa Brown asks where it all began for three LPO players, and how they made a passion into a profession. From Lyndon’s early brass band days, to David’s primary school string inspiration, and Emma’s recent exploration of different genres, YolanDa discovers what makes these musicians who they are today. Plus, a very supportive Grandpa, and a violist’s journey into flamenco music… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPO
Artist in Residence - Julia Fischer
YolanDa Brown sits down with violinist and pianist Julia Fischer and asks what it means to be the LPO’s Artist in Residence for their current season. How does it feel to lead the orchestra from a soloist’s perspective? YolanDa also discovers how it feels for the musicians to play with no conductor, as well as finding out all about the joys of playing chamber music…Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonph
Family Time
Welcome to Series 4!To kick off the new series, YolanDa Brown sits down with violinist Nynke Hijlkema and clarinet player Thomas Watmough to discuss the experience of having a family while working as a professional musician in an orchestra. From taking kids on tour to long distance phone calls, the essential duty free gifts and encouraging music making in your own children, Nynke and Tom reveal the struggles and the joys of parenting as a musician. Produced by Tandem Productions for th
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 3
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 3. Why do the musicians do what they do? And how do you combat the fear of fear? Plus, a revelation from conductor Karina Canellakis, the story of how a cello came to be, and the romantic connections across the orchestra… With tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis, violinist Kate Oswin, contrabassoonist Simon Estell, cellist Elisabeth Wiklander, Principal cellist Kristina Blaumane, trumpeter Anne McAneney, Principal Guest Conductor of
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 2
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 2. How do you audition for an orchestra, from the London Philharmonic to New York to Berlin? And how can you use nerves to actually improve your performance?YolanDa also finds out what it’s like recording for film, and how it feels singing in the London Philharmonic Choir. Plus, an insight into the music of Rachmaninoff. With horn player Mark Vines, violinist and leader of the orchestra Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Choir
Best of LPO Offstage: Series 1
YolanDa Brown takes us through some of the best bits of Series 1. What’s so bad about an emergency sandwich, how many pairs of pants should you pack for a tour, how do you repair cracks on a double bass, and what is a jingling johnny? With cellist Laura Donoghue, horn player John Ryan, timpanist Simon Carrington, tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis, harpist Rachel Masters, trombone player Mark Templeton, violinist Tania Mazzetti, oboe player Alice Munday, double bass player Hugh Kluger, percussionis
Are You Sitting Comfortably?
YolanDa Brown sits down with tuba player Lee Tsarmaklis, violinist Lasma Taimina and bassoon and contrabassoon player Simon Estell to find out the truth about audiences, from the unique perspective of an orchestral musician. There’s the issue of eating (whether it’s popcorn or turkey hotdogs), the connection the orchestra has with their home audience at the Royal Festival Hall, and the rockstar feeling they get when they do concerts specifically for children. YolanDa also finds out what it
Press Record
Come and join us for LPO Offstage LIVE at Henry Wood Hall! YolanDa Brown sits down with the LPO’s recordings consultant Matthew Freeman, violinist Fiona Higham and piccolo player Stewart McIlwham to discover why the LPO LIVE label was created back in 2005, what it feels like to play when you know you’re being recorded, and how you patch up any mistakes. Plus, the musicians share their ‘desert island’ LPO LIVE recordings… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra.&
Keeping in Shape
Facing the fear of fear, admitting you might not always want to go to those after concert drinks, and searching for the best strengthening exercises to avoid injury as a musician and a conductor are just a few of the tips and topics discussed by YolanDa Brown, cellist Elisabeth Wiklander and conductor Karina Canellakis. They discover that being in top shape for your job as a musician is a very personal journey. And how do you find that ‘lake stillness’ before a performance?Produced by Tandem Pro
Tools of the Trade
YolanDa Brown uncovers some of the mysteries of buying an orchestral instrument with cellist David Lale and horn player Mark Vines. From commissioning a brand new cello, to finding that ‘perfectly cooked risotto’ sound of Mark’s perfect horn, to leaving horns on trains and cellos outside pubs, YolanDa hears about the highs and lows of searching for (and holding onto!) that dream instrument. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter:
Inside Mahler’s Symphony No.1
YolanDa Brown gets the scoop on what it’s like to play Mahler’s ‘Titan’ Symphony from the musicians themselves. Horn player Martin Hobbs shares his favourite moment in the piece, where the horns actually stand up to play, harp player Rachel Masters gets to the bottom of why early audiences found the symphony to be way ahead of its time (and slightly shocking) and explains why Mahler’s writing for the harp is so effective. And flute player Juliette Bausor reveals that the challenge is not to do w
Carry on Trucking
YolanDa Brown chats to Damian Davis (from his van!) about the celebrated LPO truck, complete with a hydraulic lift and kitchenette, and asks how he safely transports hundreds of instruments to concert halls around the world. She also hears bass player Laura Murphy’s point of view - when do you take your ‘second’ instrument, and what do you absolutely not put in your instrument case when you go on tour…?Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTw
How to write for orchestra
YolanDa Brown catches up with Brett Dean to find out what it means to be a Composer in Residence at an orchestra like the LPO, and how you tackle the daunting task of writing for so many instruments. She also talks to bass player Sebastian Pennar, who has been collaborating with Brett to discover all the sonic possibilities of the double bass (including using a rubber ball on a stick…). Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrches
Blending Cultures
From nervous jazz trumpet solos to a singing orchestra and musical collaborations, today YolanDa Brown talks to trumpeter Anne McAneney and violinist Vesselin Gellev about how they’ve crossed musical boundaries, and discovers what we can learn from expanding our musical experiences. Is all music a kind of improvisation? And how can musicians overcome their fear of exploring new genres? Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchest
Lights, Camera, Action!
When we all went into lockdown, David Burke and Nathan Prince dreamt up a way to bring the LPO into our homes in new, imaginative ways. From innovative lighting to performing amongst the empty seating, the LPO’s filmed performances allowed people to experience live music in fresh, bold and intimate ways. Glances between players became highlights of a performance, and light and shade added a new dimension to the music. Today, YolanDa hears about the LPO’s digital creative journey, and what it’s l
Know the Score
In the crypt underneath Henry Wood Hall, the LPO librarians work round the clock to prepare scores for the orchestra, a central cog in the LPO’s wheel. Today, YolanDa discovers how this mysterious world works, with the help of LPO librarian Sarah Holmes and percussionist Andy Barclay. Preparing a set of scores for the stage may not be as simple as it sounds… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilharm
Desk Partners
YolanDa Brown sits down (yes - in real life!) with cellist Kristina Blaumane and violinist Fiona Higham to get the scoop on what it’s like sharing a music stand with someone, sometimes for many years. There are new friendships, tricky traditions, musical inspirations across the desks, and romantic connections… What makes the perfect (or imperfect) desk partner? Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilh
Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique
YolanDa Brown catches up with oboist Alice Mundy and percussionist Henry Baldwin to get their thoughts on one of the wildest pieces of classical music ever written, Symphonie Fantastique by Hector Berlioz. It’s a huge work which describes the inner turmoil of an artist in love with a woman who doesn’t feel the same way… The immense orchestral score certainly takes the listener on a truly wild ride. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @L
Notes to remember
YolanDa Brown talks to cellist Francis Bucknall, cor anglais player Sue Böhling and violinist Kate Oswin to find out about some of the music that changed their lives… Music is powerful. It can move, excite and inspire us, creating moments fixed in time and memories to last a lifetime. Donate now and your support will help ensure that we can create new musical moments and memories. Please donate and share a moment that has been special to you.lpo.org.uk/support Produced by Tandem Productions for
Beethoven's Symphonies
Beethoven’s nine symphonies are some of the most well-loved and revered pieces in classical music, and they are regularly performed by the LPO. YolanDa Brown dives into this world with violinist Tania Mazzetti, trumpeter Paul Beniston and clarinettist Tom Watmaugh and finds some revealing insights from the players perspective. Including demonstrations from Paul and Tom, you might find yourself listening to these majestic symphonies that little bit differently after listening to this podcast. Pro
Adding Voices
YolanDa Brown talks to Chorus Director Neville Creed, singer Caroline Morris and LPO bass clarinettist Paul Richards as she finds out all about the London Philharmonic Choir. Set up in 1947, the choir has always worked closely with the LPO and in this episode YolanDa learns many of the ins and outs of how the choir operates. From rehearsal insights to the audition process to join the choir (and the importance of propping up the bar after a show), there’s plenty in store. Produced by Tandem Produ
Making Visions Happen
YolanDa Brown talks to Artistic Director Cristina Rocca and President of the LPO and violinist Martin Hoehmann about exactly how a season of concerts is put together. Is it as much a science as an art? How involved are the members of the orchestra? How do venues impact on repertoire choices? And then there’s money… is that a creative constraint and will the marketing team be happy with a concert that might look a little intimidating on paper…?! Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philh
Harmonies across the pond
YolanDa Brown connects with New York and Berlin for a trio of Philharmonics: London, New York and Berlin. She is joined by horn player Leelanee Sterrett from the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, violist Matthew Hunter from the Berlin Philharmonic and double bass player Sebastien Pennar from the LPO as they compare and contrast orchestral life in the UK, America and Germany. From thoughts about their regular audiences to differences in the audition process this episode is a fascinating glimpse in
Screen time!
YolanDa Brown heads off to the movies with piccolo player Stewart McIlwham and violinist Kate Birchall. Stewart and Kate have played on many film soundtracks including some of the most iconic of recent decades including the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They tell YolanDa some of their tales from behind the scenes including the breakneck pace at which Howard Shore wrote the score for LOTR. Plus insights from the world of game music too… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orch
Fitting in
YolanDa Brown finds out what it’s like for some of the LPO players who have move to the UK to live and work in London. Yang moved to London from China, Nynke from the Netherlands and Hugh from Australia, so how do their diverse cultural backgrounds coalesce in the UK? They discuss issues relating to family and friends in far off countries, different approaches to programming and orchestral auditions, and it wouldn’t be possible to make this episode without talking about Brexit and what that migh
Symphonic Dances
YolanDa Brown gets under the skin of one of the most popular of Rachmaninoff’s orchestral pieces, his Symphonic Dances. Together with timpanist Simon Carrington, violinist Laura Vallejo and trombone player Dave Whitehouse they open up a piece about which Rachmaninoff said “I don’t know how it happened, it must have been my last spark.” Indeed it was the last piece he wrote and it’s a work that many people now think of as one of his greatest orchestral works. Simon, Laura and Dave have played thi
Everyone's a musician
YolanDa Brown talks to trumpeter Anne McAneney and violist Richard Waters about the LPO’s work in the community. Many people may assume that the LPO is focused solely on rehearsals and performances at the Royal Festival Hall in London, or on tour around the globe. But there is also a great passion amongst the players and staff for getting involved in the community and widening access to the orchestra. From work in care homes and homeless shelters to programmes with
Nights (and Days) at the Opera
YolanDa Brown explores the world of opera with principal bass Kevin Rundell and violinist Fiona Higham. The LPO have a long association with Glyndebourne so opera is a key part of their annual calendar. But how does being a musician at the opera differ from their usual gigs at Southbank Centre? How does it feel to be playing from a pit rather than centre stage? Is it as glamorous as it appears? Plus a terrifying near death experience… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Or
Courage!
YolanDa Brown talks to Mark Vines and Pieter Schoeman about how to get on top of an inevitable (and essential) aspect of being a musician, learning how to deal with nerves. Dry mouth, the shakes, cold sweats, ‘butterflies’ in the stomach, these are all things anyone who performs in public will be able to identify with. But how do musicians learn to manage their nerves so their performances aren’t affected, and can they actually use nervous energy to help rather than hinder them? This episode is
How did we get here?
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown talks to James Fountain, Minn Majoe and Gareth Newman about their paths into the music profession. From early experiences at school and in youth orchestras, to incredibly dedicated parents (6 hour round trips for lessons anyone?), this episode is packed full of insights for any budding musician and anyone curious about the path to becoming a professional player. Produced by Tandem Production
Exploring the new
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown talks to Lasma Taimina, Andy Barclay and Mark Templeton to get the inside view on playing music by living composers. From thoughts around programming new music and the technical demands on players to anecdotes about Messiaen and his surf drum, this episode covers all things squeak (an official LPO term). Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #O
Oiling the valves
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown chats to viola player David Quiggle and clarinettist Ben Mellefont about the ins and outs of practice. From tips about practice routines to thoughts around physical wellbeing, this episode is full of insights for any musician, from absolute beginner to concert virtuoso. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @lon
Inside Tchaikovsky's 4th
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by piccolo player Stewart McIlwham, violinist Fiona Higham and trumpet player Anne McAneney as they take a deep dive into Tchaikovsky’s 4th Symphony. Between them Stewart, Fiona and Anne have played this piece hundreds of times so they have plenty of thoughts about a symphony that has the nickname ‘Fate’. From Tchaikovsky’s state of mind when he wrote the piece, to technical insigh
Where are my reeds?
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by flautist Sue Thomas, tuba player Lee Tsamarklis and Tours Manager Grace Ko to find out about travels with the the LPO. Touring may be on hold at the moment, but that doesn’t stop all manner of revealing insights relating to logistical challenges, audience reactions, juggling family life, hotel incidents, shrunken pants and last but not least, the infamous LPO Bus 3. Produce
Inside Sibelius's 5th
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by violinist Tom Eisner, horn player John Ryan and bassoonist Simon Estell to get inside one of the 20th centuries best-loved orchestral pieces, Sibelius’s majestic 5th symphony. Tom, John and Simon draw on their collective experience of playing this piece many times with many different conductors and reveal all manner of insights about the score, the rehearsal process and wha
Escaping the 9-5
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by harpist Rachel Masters, clarinettist Tom Watmough and horn player Martin Hobbs to discuss the working life realities of a professional musician in a world class orchestra. What exactly is a ‘normal’ day? How does practice work when you have a grumpy teenager in the room next door? Are hobbies helpful to decompress away from music? And just what does the loss of an audience
Merry Christmas from LPO Offstage!
Merry Christmas from LPO Offstage! The podcast elves are busy and new episodes will be appearing in early 2021... stay tuned...#OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On stage now!
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by stage manager Laura Kitson, cellist Kristina Blaumane and bassoonist Jonathan Davies to talk about what the LPO does best - perform! Lots in store including warming up rituals, stage set ups, pre-concert superstitions and perhaps most importantly of all, top tips for how to fuel effectively for a gig (bananas good, warm sandwiches bad). Produced by Tandem Productions for th
Swapping Seats
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown navigates her way through a tangle of technology (loads of stuff didn’t work) and manages to connect to cellist Laura Donoghue, horn player John Ryan and timpanist Simon Carrington to discuss the whys and the wherefores of orchestral layouts. From playing behind perspex screens to the challenges of performing in a socially distanced manner, this episode gives loads of insights into what
Upbeats
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. YolanDa Brown is joined by oboist Alice Mundy and percussionist Keith Millar to chat about that mysterious figure at the centre of the action - the conductor. Are flamboyant gestures for the musicians or the audience? What is it like playing under a conductor who doesn’t use a score? What exactly is a Jingling Johnny? Are conductors even needed?! Plus inside tips for budding young maestros. Produced by Ta
Where are we today?
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. This third episode is all about venues and YolanDa Brown talks to violinist Tania Mazzetti and trombonist Mark Templeton to discover insights about how different acoustics can radically affect performance, as well as the best (and worst) backstage facilities. Plus quite a lot of beer. And sausages. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrch
Cling film and rubber bands
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. In this second episode, YolanDa Brown is joined by cor anglais player Sue Böhling, double bassist Hugh Kluger and percussionist Henry Baldwin. They reveal the inner secrets of caring for their instruments (it can indeed involve cling film as well as buckets of water), what happens if you lose an instrument, and how they actually make a (good) sound. Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmon
Life IS a rehearsal
A behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians. In this first episode, YolanDa Brown is joined by flautist Juliette Bausor and percussionist Andy Barclay to discuss just what goes on in rehearsals. From brutal conductor takedowns to sharing intimate musical moments… Produced by Tandem Productions for the London Philharmonic Orchestra. #OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hos
Welcome to LPO Offstage with YolanDa Brown
Behind the scenes all access pass to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and its musicians#OffstagePodTwitter: @LPOrchestraInstagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.