Devin Patrick Hughes continues his conversation with John Suchet about Beethoven’s life in Vienna. From coffee-house concerts and aristocratic patrons to the stormy Pastoral Symphony and the struggles of deafness and custody battles, Suchet reveals how Beethoven’s music continues to inspire triumph over adversity.

Devin Patrick Hughes speaks with broadcaster and author John Suchet about Beethoven’s early years — from his childhood in Bonn and first “unplayable” works to his mentors, family, and the legendary meeting with Mozart. Drawing from his new book In Search of Beethoven: A Personal Journey, Suchet separates myth from fact and reveals how a precocious boy on the Rhine grew into a revolutionary artist who changed music forever.

Composer Nan Avant joins conductor Devin Patrick Hughes to share how she transforms the beauty and power of nature into orchestral sound. From the winds of Lahaina and the tides of the sea to the birth of distant nebulas, Avant reveals how her Peruvian heritage, classical training, and cinematic imagination shape her work. Featuring music from Aloha ‘Oe, Bijoux (The Nebulae), Lahaina – Rhapsody for Violin and Orchestra, and more, this conversation offers a rare look into the mind and heart of a modern composer.

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes interviews Peter Drew, a composer who will soon turn 90, discussing his symphony Reminiscence. Drew recounts his unconventional journey into music, beginning with early exposure to classical music and a long detour through various careers before seriously pursuing composition later in life. He describes his eclectic musical influences, ranging from classical masters like Beethoven and Bach to jazz, film scores, and world music, all of which are interwoven into his symphony. Drew shares his creative process, emphasizing the importance of appealing melodies and emotional resonance, and expresses his excitement about the upcoming recording and performances of Reminiscence. He also touches upon the collaborative aspect of bringing his symphonic vision to life, including working with orchestrators and musicians.

Join Devin Patrick Hughes in an insightful conversation with Grammy winning conductor and composer Lucas Richman. In this episode, Lucas Richman shares stories from his childhood including his early fascination with composer biographies and an inspiring letter from Aaron Copland. Richman also discusses his relationship with Leonard Bernstein, including a masterclass on the Academic Festival Overture and the invaluable lessons he learned about music, life, and humanity. Richman also shares valuable insights into his compositional process including his passion for bringing social issues and unhoused advocacy into the concert hall through his violin concerto Paths to Dignity. Richman also shares tips for any aspiring conductor about how to best serve the music and “get out of the way.”

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes interviews Tom Morris, a renowned orchestra manager, to discuss his career trajectory from percussionist to administrator. He recounts pivotal moments, including a formative experience with conductor Eugene Ormandy that influenced his career shift, and his significant roles with the Boston Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra. Key themes revolve around the evolution of orchestra management, the changing dynamics of orchestra funding, and the crucial relationships between conductors, managers, and musicians. The interview ultimately aims to illuminate the behind-the-scenes complexities of running a major orchestra, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership and a shared commitment to musical excellence. Featured Music All music selections for this episode feature the Boston Pops. Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings in C Major, Op. 48: Waltz. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler, from the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits. L’Arlésienne Suite No. 2: Farandole. Composed by Georges Bizet. Conducted by Arthur Fielder, from the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits. “Manhattan Skyline.” From the album Disco Inferno / Manhattan Skyline. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler. “I Got Rhythm, Embraceable You.” From the album Boston Pops Salutes Astaire, Kelly, Garland. Composed by George and Ira Gershwin. Conducted by John Williams. “Flying Theme” from E. T. Composed by John Williams. Performed live by John Williams conducting the Boston Pops in 2002. “America Medley: America.” From the album Salute to America. Composed by Leonard Bernstein. Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Conducted by John Williams. “None But The Lonely Heart.” From the album Pops a la Russe. Composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Conducted by John Williams. The Snow Maiden - Suite - Danse des Bouffons. Composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. From the album Pops a la Russe. Conducted by John Williams. Holst: The Planets, op.32: 3. Mercury, The Winged Messenger. From the album Boston Pops Orchestra: John Williams. Conducted by John Williams. Overture from The Merry Wives of Windsor. From the album Fiedler: Greatest Hits. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler. “Pizzicato Polka.” From the album 100 Fiedler Favorites. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler. “Funeral March of a Marionette.” From the album 100 Fiedler Favorites. Conducted by Arthur Fiedler.

George S. Clinton is an award winning composer who has scored over 100 films, most notably “Austin Powers” !The Santa Clause”; “Mortal Kombat”; and the Emmy Award winning “Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee.”

In this episode of One Symphony, Devin Patrick Hughes interviews composer, conductor, and singer Damien Geter discusses his multifaceted career and his approach to opera. He shares how his experiences as a performer inform his composing, emphasizing the importance of representation in the opera world, and how seeing oneself on stage can inspire audiences. Geter explains the process of creating an opera, from libretto to premiere, and touches on the challenges of funding for American opera companies. He also speaks about the role of music in reflecting social issues, his commitment to authentic expression, and his diverse experiences as an actor and author, in addition to his music career. This inspiring conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in opera and the power of art to create change.

In this episode of One Symphony with conductor Devin Partick Hughes, Devin has an inspiring conversation with bass virtuoso and composer Kebra Seyoun Charles. From their early exposure to African drumming and gospel music to becoming a celebrated classical musician, Charles shares their unique journey and vision for the future of classical music through their ”Counter Classical” style. Charles’s work embodies a fresh perspective on classical music’s future, one that honors tradition while embracing innovation and inclusivity. Their approach shows that classical music’s evolution doesn’t require abandoning its foundations, but rather expanding its boundaries to embrace diverse influences and experiences. As they put it, ”Classical music is so beautiful and so ephemeral and it can’t be contained.”

In this episode of One Symphony, host Devin Patrick Hughes interviews Dr. Samantha Ege, pianist and musicologist, about the life and works of Florence Price. Dr. Ege discusses Price’s musical style, her significance in American classical music, and the recent rediscovery of her compositions. The conversation covers Price’s role in the Chicago music scene, her blending of classical and African American musical traditions, and the challenges she faced as a Black female composer in the early 20th century. Dr. Ege also shares insights from her own recordings of Price’s piano works and her upcoming scholarly publications on the composer.

Tobias Picker, deemed “our finest composer for the lyric stage” by The Wall Street Journal, joins Devin Patrick Hughes on One Symphony. Tobias is a prolific composer in all genres. He has composed six operas, commissioned by Dallas Opera, LA Opera, Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and Opera Theatre St. Louis.

American pianist Clayton Stephenson joins conductor Devin Patrick Hughes for an engaging and informative interview on One Symphony. Clayton’s love for music is immediately apparent in his joyous charisma onstage, expressive power, and natural ease at the instrument. Hailed for “extraordinary narrative and poetic gifts” and interpretations that are “fresh, incisive and characterfully alive” by Gramophone, he is committed to making an impact on the world through his music-making. Clayton and Devin discuss Clayton’s upbringing, his first keyboard and piano courtesy of Lang Lang, his thoughts on performing music new and old, being a young musician, studying economics at Harvard, best health practices and more!

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes welcomes Marina Arsenijevic, a celebrated pianist and composer, to discuss her new album Chopin Obsessions. Marina shares her early musical inspirations, ranging from classical ballet to Western pop music, influenced by her upbringing in former Yugoslavia (now Serbia). She elaborates on her career journey, from performing during the Yugoslav Wars to her acclaimed PBS special at West Point, emphasizing her philosophy of Unity Through Diversity. This episode explores her approach to blending traditional melodies with classical compositions, her admiration for Chopin, and her recent work Tesla Rhapsody.

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes interviews internationally renowned pianist Quynh Nguyen, exploring her remarkable journey in music. Born in post-war Vietnam, Nguyen’s path has been shaped by her family legacy, global influences, and dedication to her craft. From her early beginnings at the Hanoi Conservatory to her studies in Moscow, Paris, and the United States, Nguyen’s story exemplifies perseverance and the power of music to transcend boundaries. The interview examines Nguyen’s direct connections with French composer Olivier Messiaen and studying with his wife Yvonne Loriod, her respect for Germaine Tailleferre’s resilience, and her collaboration with Paul Chihara on his Concerto Fantasy for Piano and Orchestra. Nguyen also explores music’s capability to promote peace between nations in her touching final remarks.

In this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes sits down with renowned composer Pierre Jalbert to explore Jalbert’s musical journey, creative process, and the spiritual influences that shape his work. Jalbert shares intimate stories about his childhood in Vermont, his collaborations with world-class musicians, and the importance of resonance and reverberation in his compositions. He also pays tribute to his mentor, the late Larry Rachleff, and discusses his genre-bending project with the Apollo Chamber Players. Throughout the interview, Jalbert offers insights into the challenges and rewards of writing for both chamber groups and large ensembles and reveals how he strives to create music that serves the audience. Join us for a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of today’s best composers.

In this episode of One Symphony, Juhi Bansal discusses her diverse cultural influences, from Hindustani classical to Western styles, and how she weaves them together to create powerful narratives through sound. Bansal delves into the inspiration behind several of her striking works, including ”Songs From the Deep,” ”Waves of Change,” and ”Aurora,” which explore themes of women’s resilience, environmental conservation, and the beauty of natural phenomena. Bansal also reflects on the role of artists in driving change and her personal growth as a composer over the past 15 years. Join us for an engaging conversation that celebrates the power of music to create narratives that combine spirituality and nature.

In this episode of One Symphony, host Devin Patrick Hughes sits down with Ralph Patrick, a former pastor and Alzheimer’s Association collaborator, to explore the profound impact of music on individuals living with dementia. Patrick shares his personal experiences and insights, discussing how live musical performances can engage, stimulate, and connect with those affected by this challenging disease. Discover the steps musical organizations can take to create dementia-friendly programs and learn about the cognitive benefits of music for individuals with dementia. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on the transformative power of music and its ability to reach the deeper, inner self beyond cognition.

In this episode of One Symphony, host Devin Patrick Hughes welcomes rising star composer, performer, and educator Brittany Green to discuss her boundary-pushing work and perspective on the future of classical music in the 21st century. Green, who started out in music education before pivoting to composition in her 20s, brings a multifaceted approach to her practice. Through projects like the Young Composers Project, she blends her interests in composing and teaching, working with K-5 students to collaboratively create music using tools like Max MSP. During the pandemic shutdowns, Green delved further into live electronics and narration as a form of performance, drawing inspiration from artists in the black arts and poetry space to bring fresh aesthetics to her classical compositions. https://www.brittanyjgreen.com https://devinpatrickhughes.com

Composer Dan Visconti joins host Devin Patrick Hughes on One Symphony to discuss his innovative approaches to engaging new audiences with classical music. In this in-depth interview, Visconti shares valuable lessons from his wide-ranging collaborations, including projects with incarcerated youth, refugees, and interactive opera productions. He delves into his concept of ”civic practice,” which involves directly engaging communities in the artistic process to address social issues. Visconti also provides insight into his own boundary-pushing compositions, such as ”Low Country Haze” and ”Living Language,” and the intricacies of cross-genre collaboration. Throughout the conversation, Visconti’s deep commitment to expanding the reach and relevance of classical music is evident. He offers thought-provoking perspectives and practical strategies for how orchestras can adapt to the needs and interests of 21st-century audiences. This interview is essential viewing for anyone passionate about the future of classical music and its capacity to inspire positive social change.

On this episode of One Symphony, conductor Devin Patrick Hughes interviews Henry Fogel, a prominent figure in the orchestral music field. Fogel discusses his early life in music, his exciting journey in radio, and his passion for making symphonic music more accessible. They also delve into Fogel’s contribution to orchestras as a director and a manager. From his beginnings in a home where Broadway musicals were the high end of musical taste, to his rise as a key figure in the world of orchestral music, Fogel’s insights on board members and anecdotes about conductors provide a unique window into the business side of the symphony orchestra. https://www.wfmt.com/programs/collectors-corner-with-henry-fogel/ https://devinpatrickhughes.com