Battle of Ideas at Sound Unbound

Two satellite events at the Barbican’s classical music weekender on 31 October and 1 November.

Why does classical music matter?

Saturday 31 October, 14:00-15:15
Does classical music really matter to the extent that we should invest time in appreciating it over other forms of music? Is choosing between Verdi and Clint Mansell, or Strauss and Morricone, simply a matter of preference or is it possible to draw more precise distinctions? Is it elitist to argue that some classical music pieces simply offer a richer, or even more important, listening experience than others? Where should a new listener begin – and, perhaps more importantly, why should they bother?

SPEAKERS

Dolan Cummings
associate fellow, IoI

Dr Alexandra Lamont
senior lecturer, psychology of music, Keele University

James McVinnie
organist; latest release, Cycles

Raymond Yiu
composer; conductor; jazz pianist

CHAIR
Cara Bleiman
teacher, Arnhem Wharf Primary School

Attention-seeking? Classical music and Generation Spotify

Sunday 1 November, 15:00-16:15
Has internet streaming been good for classical music or has it really only changed how existing audiences engage with music? Does the internet have a vital role to play in increasing access and demystifying the music for a new generation, or does it only attract more casual fans? Has the internet changed the way we listen to music, or just made it easier to access? In a digital age, are live performances still the gold standard?

SPEAKERS

Kimon Daltas
editor, Classical Music magazine

Mahan Esfahani
harpsichordist; BBC Music ‘Newcomer of the Year’ 2015

Ivan Hewett
chief music critic, Daily Telegraph

Paul Morley
music journalist; author, The North (and almost everything in it)

Gabriella Swallow
cellist, broadcaster and arts commentator

CHAIR
David Bowden
associate director, IoI