The first details of Classical:NEXT’s 2016 programme have been announced, with Martin Cullingford from Gramophone Magazine and Naxos founder Klaus Heymann two of the big names on the bill. Several of the six sessions released so far have a technology focus, a key theme for this year’s conference.
Sessions announced include Are You Retweetable, Instagrammable and Likeable? (chaired by Florence Eves from Intermusica); Immersive Environments, Live and Online, for Millenials (chaired by John Kieser from New World Symphony); Streaming – the Challenges and Opportunities (chaired by Martin Cullingford from Gramophone); and That Syncing Feeling (chaired by Steve Long from Signum Records). A full rundown of panellists is available on Classical:NEXT’s website.
Cullingford described the event as, ‘An inspiring few days surrounded by those debating the challenges, celebrating the achievements, and shaping the future of classical music.’ Over 10 different countries are represented on the panels, which includes representatives of UK Select Music, City of Birmingham Orchestra, Delphian and BMG. The full programme, to be announced next month, will total 30 sessions.
A highlight already revealed is that Naxos label founder Klaus Heymann will be interviewed by Gramophone magazine’s James Jolly, an event open to both delegates and attendees of Classical:NEXT festival. Details of the festival, which includes concerts and showcases, will be announced in February.
Almost three quarters of Classical:NEXT’s expo stalls have now been allocated for the Rotterdam-based gathering, which expects to bring in over 1,000 industry professionals. The conference coincides with Operadagen Festival and Music Theatre Now as well as the 50th anniversary of host venue de Doelen.