Anna Lapwood is a British organist, conductor, and broadcaster. Currently Director of Music at Pembroke College, Cambridge, Anna has a full schedule as both organist and conductor. We go in-depth in relation to some of the amazing instruments Anna has performed on, as well as a wide-ranging discussion on Anna’s career and the challenges of classical music in the modern era more broadly.

To listen / watch:

Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):  

Anna’s musical upbringing

First exposure to the organ

The approach to intensive practice of up to 8 hours per day

Becoming Director of Music at Pembroke College at 21

How teaching music works at Cambridge

A week in the life of Anna Lapwood and Pembroke College

Developing as a conductor

Releasing one’s own work

Insights into performance anxiety and ‘getting out of one’s head’

Anna’s love for film music and re-interpreting film music for the organ

Anna performs ‘Cornfield Chase’ from the movie Interstellar 

The power of film music as a ‘gateway’ to classical music

Anna explores the Royal Albert Hall Organ

The largest organ in the world in Atlantic City USA

Macy’s Philadelphia Wanamaker Organ

Comparing thoughts on the organ as an instrument now, to when Anna was first introduced to the instrument

Anna and Bonobo perform together

Thoughts on keeping classical music fresh in the 21st Century and beyond

A discussion on organist footwear – Organ Master shoes

The Cambridge Organ Experience

Bachathon for Zambia

A tip for young players wanting to work in the music industry

Three emerging artists Anna calls out: Toril Azzalini-Machecler, Lucy Walker, Jess Gillam

Desert Island Discs: My One and Only Thrill – Melody Gardot, Soundtrack – Pirates of the Caribbean, Metamorphosen – Strauss, Bring Us, O Lord God – Sir William Harris, Intermezzo in A Major – Brahms

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