Welcome to my TED talk // Is this the most controversial topic in classical music right now?

[@jakewatson668]

In terms of concert stuff, I like the standard sit and listen. However, I do like it when the artist(s) speak from the stage directly to us. I get thats what programme notes etc. are for, but I think it adds something

[@heatherhawken]

Fair enough! Yes I really enjoy talking to an audience ☺️ I think it really helps to connect with an audience and it’s always much nicer to hear about a piece from someone who has first hand experience of performing the work

[@jakewatson668]

@@heatherhawken absolutely, yes. Although sadly, only 2 artists have announced from the stage in the many concerts I have gone to

[@heatherhawken]

Ah that is sad! Well it’s really good to know that it’s wanted ☺️

[@kaistinakemperdahl9667]

I love the idea of this set up. I don’t think my (amateur) orchestra could pull off something like this but I so wish I could show people everything that’s going on from a back row violist's point of view who hears nearly every single instrument. Hearing all these different musical lines come together is one of my favourite things about playing in an orchestra. I feel that innovative ideas that bridge the gap between the musicians and audiences are necessary for classical music to survive. We who love playing this music can only do so with an audience. New ideas might get people interested who wouldn’t usually go to classical concerts. So, yes, I'm all for new ideas.

[@heatherhawken]

This is super helpful thank you ☺️ You’re exactly right, I think how an orchestra works can be such a mystery and breaking that down would actually lead people to enjoying the experience more

[@janetcolletti]

I've experienced being part of an audience, standing and walking around the players. It's an interesting experience and has its place. Although personally i do find it easier to actually appreciate the music in a more traditional setting. I really don't like people filming. It takes away from being fully present and actively listening in a concentrated way. I only started going to classical concerts a few years ago when I took up the violin as an adult student. I hated the formality of classical concerts initially,but now I actually love it. It's great to try and make classical music accessible to more people and less intimidating overall. Any movement towards this is a positive in my opinion. 😊

[@heatherhawken]

Fair enough! Do you mind me asking what put you off about the formality of it?

[@janetcolletti]

@@heatherhawken I had the strange idea that I would be expected to behave in a certain way. Like there were these 'rules' that I didn't know about. For example sitting still and being extremely quiet, so as not to disturb the musicians, or fellow audience members. I definitely felt i shouldn't cough or perhaps clap in the wrong place!😁 Not very conjusive to relaxation. I also believed that people who attended classical concerts had masses of musical knowledge! I was full of preconceptions, most of which turned out to be wrong! It's been a big learning curve. I do know that many people feel as I once did, that classical performances aren't for them. So any innovations that make classical music accessible to more people gets my vote. Now attending orchestral and chamber music performances are one of the great joys in my life 😊

[@heatherhawken]

Oh my days that last but has made my day! I totally understand what you mean, as someone who has been raised in the “classical music world” for most of her life and I professional for several years… I can still feel that way at a concert sometimes so bless you for being so honest. X

[@politico9575]

"Brass, we love you". Yeah, no we don't.

[@heatherhawken]

🤣 I’m saying nothing 🤐