classicalqueer

Classical Queer Episode 31

In 2022 we interviewed Australian composer Matt Webster about his upcoming work "This too shall pass" about his life and struggle with Bipolar disorder.

Since then Matt has been orchestrating and recording the work and it was released a few days ago. The work is a labour of love and deals with such important issues that affect so many people.

We therefore thought it a good time to talk to Matt again about how the work developed and how it's been received. The outcome you will see is an amazing musical experience.

Please note the podcast contains references to menatl health issues and suicide.

Classical Queer Episode 30

When thinking of the world of classical music one does not normally think of the Saxophone. Well, Nick May is here to change your mind.

Jacob and I had the great pleasure of interviewing Nick who's amazing virtuosity is displayed in the 3 pieces we listened to. It really opened my eyes to the world of classical sax.

As usual we discussed a wide range of subjects including Nick's project to promote innovative queer music called "I Exist". Do take a listen, you won't be disappointed.

Classical Queer Episode 29

If you are like me you have a soft spot for musicals then you are in for a real treat this month. Jacob and I had the great pleasure to interview composer, musical director and improviser Jordan Paul Clarke.

Come listen to some great songs including one about two people in a home for the elderly trying to come to terms with facebook and you shouldn't miss the excerpt from Jordan's musical about Salmon tying to escape from a farm. Enjoy fantastic music combined with witty lyrics and the British sense of humour  in a really enetertaining show.

Don't miss it!

Classical Queer Episode 28

I have had the pleasure of interviewing many great musicians and composers over the past two years but I came to realise that I had never talked music with my co-host Jacob Caines. He amazingly agreed to be interviewed by me.

So here is Jacob talking about his work as a musicologist, conductor and musician. As usual we had lots of laughs and talked about a wide range of subjects.

 

... and no, don't worry I won't be interviewed next! Sammi

Classical Queer Episode 27

Classical Queer 27 sees the return to the show of Rylan Gleave who was one of the first guests we had on the CQ podcast and since then Rylan's career has flourished.

Here we discuss his new work called "In Chemical Transit" by All Men Unto Me. This very unique work details the change in Rylan's voice during his transition. As is usual we talk about a wide range of issues covering the whole range of the queer experience - oh and of course we laugh a lot!

 

Do take a listen!

Classical Queeer Episode 26

On this month's podcast Jacob and I talk to the brilliant American violinist Andrew Sords. Andrew has travelled the world and played with over 300 orchestras. He has a wide-ranging repertoire of work including solo and recital works  as well as with his trio.

 

As usual we listened to some great music and talked widely about music, politics and of course Andrew's dancing.

 

Do take a listen!

Classical Queer Episode 25

This month, the classicalqueer podcast was on location at the Unison Choir Festival held in Halifax, Canada. The festival brought together 1500 queer singers from across the country to sing and connect.

 

Jacob had the opportunity to listen to performances as well as talk with one of the festival choir conductors, Deirdre Kellerman as well as sitting on a rehersal.

 

Come take a look behind the scenes of a fantastic festival.

 

 

 

Classical Queer Episode 24

For CQ Episode 24 we crossed the world to Australia to talk to composer, pianist and conductor Kym Dillon who is currently based in Melbourne and Geelong. Starting out her career as a jazz pianist, Kym’s interest soon turned to composition, and her work now regularly spans multiple genres and areas of musical practice.

 

We had a great time chatting with Kym and talking about her work as well as having lots of laughs and a generally fun time. We hope you take a listen.

 

 

Classical Queer Episode 23

Back in November 2021 Jacob and I had the pleasure of interviewing composer and instrumentalist Florence Anna Maunders. Since then her career has moved forward in leaps and bounds. So we thought it was time to invite her back on the show and find out what she has been doing.

 

We talk about her work and awards over the last year and listen to three recent compositions. As usual we discuss a wide range of topics and talk about upcoming work. Do take a listen.

Classical Queer Episode 22

Jacob and I welcome to the show Canadian Composer Stuart Beatch. Stuart specialises in choral music and has had his work performed across North America and Europe. During the show we listen to three pieces all of which need to be listened to not only for their choral beauty but for the story they tell - which is surely the sign of great composing.

 

We of course talk about music, the state of the world and pretty much everything in between. Jacob and I had a great time talking with Stuart so do take a listen.

Credits

"a boy & a boy", performed by Pro Coro Canada (Michael Zaugg, dir), recorded September 2022 

 

"The Letter" from "I am like many", performed by The Fourth Choir (Dominic Ellis-Peckham, dir), EP release from 2019

 

"Preserves" from "Still Running", performed by tenor Tim Carter and pianist Kimberley-Ann Bartczak, recorded August 2022