Inside the score

Fanny Mendelssohn: A Genius in the Shadows

Overshadowed by her brother Felix, Fanny Mendelssohn was nonetheless one of the 19th century’s most gifted composers. In this portrait, Jack Pepper explores her remarkable life, music, and the rediscovery of a long-overlooked voice.

By Jack Pepper

Reading time estimated : 12min read

From Oscars to Opera: 4 Opera Recommendations Inspired by 2025’s Best Picture Nominees

As the Oscars approach, this year’s Best Picture nominees explore timeless themes—family, tragedy, music, and resistance. Discover four operas that echo the drama and emotion of these acclaimed films.

By Viviana Freyer

Reading time estimated : 12min read

Listen Closer: Verdi’s La Traviata

Premiered on March 6, 1853 at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice, La Traviata features some of opera’s most iconic works, including drinking song ‘Libiamo ne’ lieti calici’ and the…

By Nadya Miryanova

Reading time estimated : 5min read

Great Conductor–Orchestra Relationships: What Makes Them Work?

Behind every iconic orchestra sound lies a partnership that worked — or sometimes didn’t. Looking at landmark collaborations past and present reveals how leadership, identity and context combine to create…

By Andrew Mellor

Reading time estimated : 11min read

China and the Classical Music Boom: From Growth Market to Global Powerhouse

Two decades after being seen as a future growth market, China has become a central player in classical music — reshaping education, orchestras and repertoire with unprecedented scale.

By Andrew Mellor

Reading time estimated : 12min read

Musical Dynasties: Five Families, Five Ways Out

From the Bachs to the Scarlattis, five musical dynasties reveal how inheritance can be embraced, defied, transformed, or exhausted — and how genius negotiates the weight of a name.

By Maria Matalaev

Reading time estimated : 15min read

Classical Music on Ice: The Soundtrack of Olympic Figure Skating

As the world’s best skaters compete for the gold in Milan, we explore the role classical music plays in bringing their artistry to life.

By Andrew McIntyre

Reading time estimated : 13min read

From Holst to Hogwarts: Music of the Harry Potter Film Series

For twenty-five years the blockbuster Harry Potter film series has cast its spell over audiences worldwide. Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore called music “A magic…

By Andrew McIntyre

Reading time estimated : 23min read

When Love Goes Wrong in Opera: A Dramatic Antidote to Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day, look beyond romantic clichés and discover how opera transforms love into obsession, betrayal, and unforgettable drama.

By Nadya Miryanova

Reading time estimated : 12min read

A Symphony of Two: Robert and Clara Schumann

Turbulent courtship, creative outpouring, professional rivalry and enduring loyalty: Robert and Clara Schumanns’ marriage was as dramatic as any opera. Yet through triumph and tragedy, their shared language…

By Jack Pepper

Reading time estimated : 12min read