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.

Episodes

  1. 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

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.