THE MAGAZINE
Chineke! Orchestra’s Betania Johnny (19, violinist): Expand the Picture!
Violinist Betania Johnny has grown up alongside the groundbreaking Chineke! Foundation, helping to redefine who classical music is for. In this TWoA interview, she reflects on practice, purpose, and why expanding the repertoire—and the picture—matters more than ever.
Betania Recommends: Composers
Looking to expand your classical music repertoire? In this TWoA guide, violinist Betania Johnny highlights powerful works by George Walker, William Dawson, Florence Price, and Jessie Montgomery—four composers reshaping how we listen today. Discover why their music deserves a place on your playlist.
BBC Young Musician 2022: Percussionist Jordan Ashman
At just 18, Jordan Ashman became only the third percussionist to win BBC Young Musician. From DIY instruments to redefining what percussion can be, this interview reveals what it really takes to stand out—and why percussion is anything but background noise.
Water Percussion
What if water could sing? In Water Concerto for Water Percussion and Orchestra, Tan Dun pushes percussion beyond drums and skins—revealing how even the most unlikely material can become music.
October: Piece of the Month
October has a soundtrack of its own. In Autumn from The Four Seasons, Antonio Vivaldi captures harvest celebrations, dancing peasants, and the rhythms of the season. Discover the story—and the poem—behind the music.
Shervin Hajipour: Anthem of Protest
In the wake of Iran’s protests, a song became a rallying cry. Iranian musician Shervin Hajipour transformed thousands of voices into Baraye—a haunting anthem of resistance, hope, and the cost of speaking out.
In Memory of Queen Elizabeth II
From Balmoral Castle to the sound of bagpipes at dawn, Queen Elizabeth II’s love of Scotland was deeply felt. This piece reflects on duty, tradition, and music as part of her everyday life.
Promming in London
Fancy classical music in the most relaxed setting imaginable? Our TWoA guide explores promming at the BBC Proms—from standing tickets to blankets, books, and unforgettable performances.
Piece of the Month: Jules Massenet, Méditation from Thaïs
Composed in 1894, Massenet’s Méditation from Thaïs is a slow, spiritual violin solo. In this piece for TWoA, Lina Ezrahi explores why it continues to soothe and inspire. Read on for more.
Antonio Vivaldi: Il Prete Rosso ‘The Red Priest’
Venice was once known as the “Republic of Music.” In this article, TWoA explores how Antonio Vivaldi, orphaned girls, and superstar singers shaped the city’s musical legacy. Read on to learn more.