
š This episode ofĀ (In)Sight-Reading EnlightenmentĀ takes you straight to the heart of theĀ London International Festival of Early Music (LIFEM), which took place in November 2024. We explore the festivalās atmosphere, its excitingĀ Chamber Music Competition, and the inspiring work behind the scenes.
Join hostĀ Darina AbloginaĀ as she speaks with:
š¤Ā Chris Butler, the longtime organiser of LIFEM
š¤Ā Erik Bosgraaf, recorder virtuoso and the festivalās newly appointed artistic director
Together, they reflect on the festivalās legacy, the magic of community, and their shared hopes for the future of early music.
š°ļøĀ Timecodes
0:00 ā Intro
1:15 ā Meet Chris Butler
1:47 ā Meet Erik Bosgraaf
2:02 ā The Origins of LIFEM
3:30 ā How a passion turned into leadership and vision.
4:25 ā Festival Highlights & Afterparties
The joy of community, unforgettable performances, and why the afterparties matter.
8:30 ā Reflections from Erik on stepping into the role of artistic director.
9:00 ā Shaping the Festivalās Artistic Vision
How artists are selected and what guides the programming.
9:58 ā Education, Inspiration & Exhibitions
From kids to amateursācreating a welcoming and enriching festival experience.
13:10 ā Engaging the Audience
Curious kids, live questions, and a responsive festival crowd.
15:25 ā Please Touch the Instruments!
Encouraging connection through hands-on experience.
16:10 ā Looking Ahead
Dreams, plans, and the evolving future of LIFEM.
18:10 ā LIFEMās Impact & Reputation
The festivalās growing presence on the international stage.
21:42 ā A Sense of Wonder
What the audience takes homeāand why it matters.
22:55 ā Outro
šĀ Useful Links
š LIFEM Website:Ā https://lifem.org
šø LIFEM on Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/lifemofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
š² Follow (In)Sight-Reading Enlightenment for more early music stories:
InstagramĀ https://www.instagram.com/insight_reading_enlightenment/
Thank you for listening and supporting this beautiful community.
With music and curiosity,
Darina š¶