interviews

Augustin Hadelich: “The violin can be a bit of a prima donna instrument.”

What keeps a violinist endlessly curious? Through five revealing questions, violinist Augustin Hadelich explores his bond with the instrument, the magic behind practicing beloved concertos, the grounding power of chamber music, and the rare moments when music moves him to tears.

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 6min read

Aristo Sham: “I suddenly felt free”

From unexpected playlists to pre-concert rituals, 2025 Cliburn Gold medallist Aristo Sham opens up about his most unforgettable competition moments—and the one mistake every pianist should make. Here are 5…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 2min read

From Beethoven to the Art of Spaghetti: 5 questions to pianist Jeremy Denk

Between late-night chicken wings in Aspen and pre-concert rituals that raise an eyebrow, pianist Jeremy Denk blends humor, insight, and a touch of the unexpected. At the 2025 Aspen Music…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 2min read

Hervé Boissière: “People are definitely available for emotion and magic.”

Co-Director of the Verbier Festival Hervé Boissière takes us behind the scenes of the iconic Swiss festival to share his vision, memories, and the quiet magic that makes…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 14min read

“I wanted it to be subversive!”: Barbara Hannigan on her first time at the Verbier Festival

At the Verbier Festival, Barbara Hannigan juggles chaos and control, premieres and patriotism, zombies and Instagram—with wit, speed, and blazing musicality. Her verdict? “I’m pleasantly ecstatic!”

By James Jolly

Reading time estimated : 10min read

From Barrios Mangoré to Daft Punk: 5 questions to guitarist Thibaut Garcia

From backstage rituals to concert hall emotions, guitarist Thibaut Garcia opens up about the misunderstood identity of classical guitar, his connection to Barrios, and what’s on his playlist…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 3min read

Alondra de la Parra: “When I’m not conducting, I love silence.”

What does a conductor value most? Empathy, silence, and the thrill of bringing unexpected programs to life. We asked 5 questions to Alondra de la Parra, founder of the PAAX…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 3min read

“It all started with the Second Concerto”: Alexandre Kantorow on Brahms

Pianist Alexandre Kantorow opens up about his deep connection to Brahms — a composer who shaped his career and imagination. From childhood inspiration to high-level interpretations, he shares how Brahms…

By James Jolly

Reading time estimated : 7min read

“Competitions weren’t for me”: Until they were: Paul Lewis at the Cliburn

British pianist Paul Lewis returns to the world of competitions as jury chair for the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. He speaks with James Jolly about reforming the process,…

By James Jolly

Reading time estimated : 7min read

Lucas Debargue: “Ravel speaks to the child in all of us”

Lucas Debargue’s interpretations are known for their emotional depth and intellectual rigor—and his affinity for literature and philosophy is never far from his music. In this conversation, we…

By Editorial Team

Reading time estimated : 5min read