Author: Bryony Smith

Favorites: Errollyn Wallen

Errollyn Wallen is a renowned British composer. Her music has framed royal occasions, ceremonies and iconic events like the Last Night of the Proms. In 2024 she was the first person of color to be appointed as Master of The Kings Music, an honorary title that dates back to the early 17th century.

Stories: James Roe

James Roe is the president and executive director of New York’s Orchestra of St. Luke’s, where he has led an organizational transformation of programmatic scale. Previously, he was president and CEO of the New Jersey Symphony [Orchestra]Hwas first a professional oboist and performed with both of the orchestras he would go on to lead. Here, he discusses Bach: invention and innovation.

Listening Room: Harry Christophers

The conductor Harry Christophers has been a familiar presence on both sides of the Atlantic for many decades. For 14 years he was the Artistic Director of Bostons Handel and Haydn Society while in the UK, he has remained at the helm of The Sixteen, a choral ensemble he founded in 1979.

Stories: Steven Banks

As a performer and composer, saxophonist Steven Banks is striving to bring his instrument to the heart of the classical music world. Here he discusses his newly released contemporary classical music composition, Come As You Are. 

Listening Room: Leif Ove Andsnes

Norwegian piano virtuoso Leif Ove Andsnes began his international concert career in his 20s. He has since performed all over the world while notching up an impressive discography that encompasses solo, chamber, and concerto repertoire. This spring he will release a disc of piano works by fellow Norwegian, Geirr Tveitt.

Favorites: Mary Bevan

Tomás Luis de Victoria: Missa Vidi speciosam

Mary Bevan comes from a family with a long tradition of singing, beginning her musical journey in her dad’s church choir when she was only six years old. She has forged a career as a versatile soprano and is part of the Bevan Family Consort, a choir made up of her siblings and other close relatives.