Anna Lapwood, Organist / Conductor / Broadcaster

Anna Lapwood is a British organist, conductor, and broadcaster. Currently Director of Music at Pembroke College, Cambridge, Anna has a full schedule as both organist and conductor. We go in-depth in relation to some of the amazing instruments Anna has performed on, as well as a wide-ranging discussion on Anna’s career and the challenges of classical music in the modern era more broadly. To listen / watch: * Audio-only: click on the play button in the audio player above, or: * Video: watch the embedded video below or check it and previous episodes out on our YouTube Channel Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):   Anna’s musical upbringing First exposure to the organ The approach to intensive practice of up to 8 hours per day Becoming Director of Music at Pembroke College at 21 How teaching music works at Cambridge A week in the life of Anna Lapwood and Pembroke College Developing as a conductor Releasing one’s own work Insights into performance anxiety and ‘getting out of one’s head’ Anna’s love for film music and re-interpreting film music for the organ Anna performs ‘Cornfield Chase’ from the movie Interstellar  The power of film music as a ‘gateway’ to classical music Anna explores the Royal Albert Hall Organ The largest organ in the world in Atlantic City USA Macy’s Philadelphia Wanamaker Organ Comparing thoughts on the organ as an instrument now, to when Anna was first introduced to the instrument Anna and Bonobo perform together Thoughts on keeping classical music fresh in the 21st Century and beyond A discussion on organist footwear – Organ Master shoes The Cambridge Organ Experience Bachathon for Zambia A tip for young players wanting to work in the music industry Three emerging artists Anna calls out: Toril Azzalini-Machecler, Lucy Walker, Jess Gillam Desert Island Discs: My One and Only Thrill – Melody Gardot, Soundtrack – Pirates of the Caribbean, Metamorphosen – Strauss, Bring Us, O Lord God – Sir William Harris, Intermezzo in A Major – Brahms Key links: Buy some keyboard related merchandise Drop us a line via the website,