2026 marks 100 years since the birth of Sir Alexander Gibson, a defining figure in Scottish classical music. From his early days at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland to founding Scottish Opera and leading the Scottish National Orchestra, his influence continues to shape Scotland’s musical life.

In this episode we speak on location with his son, Philip Gibson. Philip reflects on his relationship with his father, Sir Alexander’s impact on Scotland’s music, his love of Sibelius, his knighthood, the cast parties that filled his working life and the fact that Philip was born the day after Scottish Opera was founded.