In this episode, David talks with Jessica Phillips, a clarinetist at the Metropolitan Opera, a Graduate Studies faculty member at Juilliard School of Music, a board member of the League of American Orchestras, and a consultant.

This unique combination of roles gives Jessica a rare 360-degree view of the industry. It makes her the perfect person to discuss how we train the next generation of musicians, and how we can adapt as an industry to support them.

In this conversation, we dive into the philosophy of the 'portfolio career' and what it really means for a musician to be an entrepreneur. We explore the disconnect between traditional conservatoire training and today's rapidly changing industry. We also look at how to bring institutions and long-standing faculty along on the journey of change. Amd, we discuss how the next generation is already redefining what success looks like in the arts.

Right, that’s enough from me, let’s jump in.

Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com

Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

The Classical:NEXT Podcast:

Hosted by David Taylor

Produced by Aliena Haig

Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast

www.classicalnext.com

In this debut episode, David Taylor speaks with Victoria Dietrich, who holds a uniquely dual role as the Head of Digital Development and Audience Engagement at the Zurich Opera House.

Victoria sits right at the intersection of two worlds that are often kept separate: high-tech innovation and real-world community building. Since joining the team in Zurich, she’s been tasked with exploring how traditional opera houses can use emerging technologies to broaden its reach while staying true to their core.

In this conversation, we dive into the philosophy of ‘opening up’ an institution and what it really means to create meaningful touchpoints with a city. We explore the balance between respecting a traditional audience while actively inviting in the new, and why the secret to engagement might lie in moving beyond ticket discounts toward building genuine, long-term relationships.

We also discuss the potential of immersive technology to turn complex musical structures into physical experiences, and how a culture of collaboration can help us navigate the unknown frontiers of the digital world. Join us in for Budapest for Classical:NEXT 2026 from the 8th to the 11th of April: www.classicalnext.com

Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

The Classical:NEXT Podcast:

Hosted by David Taylor

Produced by Aliena Haig

Learn more: classicalnext.com/update/introducing-the-classicalnext-podcast

www.classicalnext.com