Ep. 38: John Gilhooly

*All Talking Classical podcasts formerly on SoundCloud redirected to Anchor.*  This episode of Talking Classical is presented in collaboration with Wigmore Hall. Nestled in the heart of London, just off Oxford Street, Wigmore Hall has established itself as the world’s leading chamber music venue. Its new concert series commences on Sunday 13th September and will be presented in line with government guidelines surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier this week, I was delighted to talked to John Gilhooly, the Director of Wigmore Hall, to learn more about how he and his team have been responding to the current crisis in terms of its artistic programming and financially. Of course, many concert halls all over the world have been capitalising on new media and social networks in this current time. Wigmore Hall has been a pioneer in digital media so we talked about the importance of the venue's "digital infrastructure" on its musical activities, promotions and outreach such as live streaming and bringing in a younger audience that may be experiencing chamber music for the first time. In addition, we discussed the Hall’s learning and participation strand and the pledge the venue has made to ensuring good mental health among its staff, artists and the wider Wigmore Hall community. What's more, John mentioned that within the programme, he's been able to respond to some issues that cause mental health problems such as racism and isolation. This, too, has been a response to the tragic events that took place over the summer. We also talked about what it takes to perform on stage at this iconic venue and some of the memorable performances that have taken place there over the years. This is an especially difficult time for the classical music business and the arts so if you're able to, please consider making a donation to Wigmore Hall, by going to wigmore-hall.org.uk/donate. You can also donate while watching Wigmore Hall’s Autumn Series concerts, which will all be live streamed on the Hall's website. All donations will be going directly to the Hall, its staff and artists. Many thanks to: John for taking the time out of his very busy schedule to talk to me. We actually recorded this interview on the day after the government reinstated some new guidelines in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jon Carvell and Tara Savile for kindly arranging and offering this wonderful opportunity. Podcast issued 12th September 2020; interview with John recorded 9th September 2020 via Zoom. John Gilhooly - Final Note Magazine article: finalnotemagazine.com/articles/john-gilhooly. Music used in this podcast: Music by audionautix.com. "Alla What (parody)," Creative Commons Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com. Used in full and edited forms for the podcast.