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5 Editorial 6 News 12 Musical Chairs 18 Long View Andrew Mellor Trump’s tenure at the Kennedy Centre is controversial, but are Europe’s cultural institutions in even more danger?
19 Guest Column Mark Pemberton Why the complex links between music and politics are impossible to untangle
36 Funding Focus The Radcliffe Trust How an 18th century legacy supports the next generation of musical talent
40 Venue Spotlight on… Gothenburg Opera House An arts hub which continues to inspire in Sweden’s second city
44 What it’s like to tour to… Spain With lots to do both on and off the concert platform, Spain is an ideal touring destination
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46 Self-Employed Musicians Guide to… NDAs ISM legal officer Alice Murray offers her advice on navigating non-disclosure agreements
48 Festivals Guide David Kettle gives a taste of the festivals on offer across 2025
50 Competitions Recent winners and upcoming deadlines classical-music.uk
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15 Christoph Eschenbach The conductor-pianist reflects on an extraordinary life and exceptional career as he marks his 85th birthday
21 The Berlioz Society How this enthusiastic society preserves and promotes the legacy of a musical titan
24 Take a breath What brass and wind players can do – and avoid – to protect their lungs from illness and injury
26 The name of the game The vital role of video game composers in inventing new worlds for millions of gamers
30 First impressions matter The album art helping musicians stand out in a competitive market
33 Making notes A look behind the scenes at the orchestra librarians making sure players never miss a beat
42 Touring while teaching How tenor, choral director and vocal coach Charles BéquignonMacDougall balances his diary
53 Final thoughts Errollyn Wallen The award-winning composer and Master of The King’s music delves into her creative process and shares plans to support music education
SUMMER SCHOOLS GUIDE INCLUDED PAGES 55-90
Spring 2025 | Classical Music | 3
