The Classical:NEXT Podcast

Classical:NEXT
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  • Performing Arts

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.

Episodes

  1. May 27

    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

    40 min

  2. May 20

    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

    24 min

  3. Apr 15

    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 & PianistJamie Njoku-Goodwin OBE, Founder of JNG AdvisoryNathaly Ossa Alzate, Social Impact and Cultural ManagerSusanne 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

    56 min

  4. Apr 1

    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

    42 min

  5. Mar 18

    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

    48 min

  6. Mar 4

    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

    40 min

  7. Feb 18

    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

    51 min

  8. Feb 4

    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

    42 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Classical:NEXT
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Classical:NEXT
  • Show Website
    The Classical:NEXT Podcast

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