Keys To The Masters
Keys To The Masters…
Keys to the Masters is an insightful interview series hosted by Claire Habbershaw. In these conversations, Claire engages with leading experts from across the creative industries, including West End stars, international opera singers, theatre directors, social media strategists, concert pianists, and more. Drawing on her extensive knowledge of theatre, acting, opera, musical theatre, and the arts, Claire explores in-depth questions and thought-provoking topics, offering audiences a rare glimpse into the minds of today's most inspiring creatives.
Matilda Lloyd
Trumpet Soloist
In this engaging conversation, trumpeter Matilda Lloyd shares her experiences in the music industry, discussing the challenges of recording, the importance of collaboration, and the intricacies of playing the trumpet. She reflects on her perfectionism, the balance between live performance and recording, and the role of social media in maintaining artistic integrity. The discussion also touches on networking within the music community and concludes with light-hearted anecdotes.
Ian Venables
Composer
Ian & Claire discuss what draws Ian to set specific poems, why they think promoting the music and life of British composer Ivor Gurney is so important and what Ian looks for when artists interpret his music.
Charles Castronovo
Tenor
Charles & Claire talk about approaching a new score for the first time, tips for young tenors starting out and not pushing their voices, Lieder interpretation, their upcoming Tosti album and much more.
Timothy Redmond
Conductor
Timothy & Claire talk how conductors work with different singers, both by building trust and the technicalities of the voice, score preparation, working with directors in opera, recitative and more.
Steven Devine
Harpsichordist
Steven & Claire talk about accompanying singers on the harpsichord, how to get expression out of an instrument with no dynamics, leading from the keyboard and the basics of figured bass and continuo playing.
Obioma Ugoala
Actor
Obioma & Claire talk about maintaining vocal health on a long West End/Broadway run, how to keep musicals and stories relatable to new audiences, keeping performances fresh and logistical information on a career in the West End.
James Laing
Countertenor
James & Claire discuss their upcoming recitals, how embodying an opera role is different from interpreting art song, what draws James to English repertoire, his secrets for tackling major roles and collaborating with directors and pianists.
Walter Meierjohann
Director
Walter & Claire discuss how Walter became so interested in the work of theatre practitioner Bertolt Brecht and their work together on Threepenny Opera, the most important elements of interpreting Brecht’s work, directing operas in comparison to theatre and why live music is so important for live theatre.
David Taylor
Arts Entrepreneur
David & Claire discuss social media and marketing tips for classical musicians, “instagram traps” & more..
Alisdair Hogarth
Concert Pianist
Alisdair & Claire discuss their top three technical exercises to level up your skills, 3 must-have songs in your repertoire if you are a collaborative pianist and how social media is transforming classical music, as well as how to stay authentic on your creative journey.