ASK the QUESTION Featuring J0nathan Bloxham Perfectly Tuned Insurance

Issue 9

Perfectly tuned insurance

ASK THE QUESTION Featuring J0nathan Bloxham Perfectly tuned insurance

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1, 4-7 FROM BATON TO BOW Cover story: Jonathan Bloxham Picture: Kaupo Kikkas 8-11 THE ONE AND ONLY CHESNEY HAWKES As one of the leading musical ‘Some people want to be famous for the sake of being instrument insurance brokers famous’ says the 90s pop idol, now singer-songwriter in the world with more than 25 years’ experience in our field, Lark 12-15 THE DELIA SMITH OF VIOLIN TEACHING Music is trusted by professionals Violinists across the world have learned to play using and world-renowned musicians. Eta Cohen’s tutorials and we discover her story The Lark Music policy has 17-20 AT HOME IN EUROPE been specifically designed for The Lark Music team travels to Cremona to talk shop musicians, and allows you to play and party with friends, dealers and clients! your instrument with complete peace of mind while the bespoke 22-23 MUSICAL NOTES business insurance policy for Charlotte Barrett learns how musicians are bringing joy dealers is crafted with your to Swiss Cottage School in London individual needs in mind and can provide cover for all of your stock, 24-25 TUNE INTO UK’S IMMIGRATION RULES tools, materials, and machinery. Marcia Longdon, a partner in the immigration team at Kingsley Napley LLP, sheds some light on potential options In addition, we realise our responsibility extends beyond 26-27 WE BRING MUSICIANS TOGETHER insurance and pride ourselves on Top cellist and composer Martin Tillman seeks out our unique involvement in the arts our cover story concert pianist Aisa Ijiri to work on a through our support of a number moving new composition of musical organisations. 28-31 CURTAIN UP ON WILTON’S MUSIC HALL Lark Music is a trading name It’s one of London’s best-kept secrets - so take a look of Aston Lark. This specialist inside the world's only grand music hall division provides products to all audiences in music including 32-34 INSURANCE MAN TO GREAT COMPOSER musicians, collectors and dealers. David Zucchi tells the story of Charles Ives who is The online quote and buy considered one of the US’s greatest 20th century portal enables customers to buy composers insurance 24/7 and is supported by dedicated individuals with extensive knowledge in the sector. Visit astonlark.com

2 Foreword from the Editor

Ask the question – it’s certainly something we as insurance brokers have to do to ensure cover for musical instruments is both adequate and appropriate. Features in this issue of LARKmusic focus on asking sometimes brave questions which have led to the most incredible changes - sometimes a lifetime of change or a change in career. Indeed, Nicola Benedetti’s recent speech at the Royal Philharmonic Society raised some big questions over music education. In this issue of LARKmusic cellist and conductor Jonathan Bloxham shares the moment he chose to play a new musical instrument and how he has changed the bow for a baton. I met him in his rehearsals for Verdi’s Rigoletto, at Glyndebourne, and it was a great privilege to have a sneak peek behind the scenes. We hear from 1990s pop idol Chesney Hawkes; he is now settled in LA as a singer-songwriter and producer but he’s often here from across the pond and has strong opinions about education, too! We also celebrate Eta Cohen, ‘the Delia Smith of violin teaching’, and her daughters and grandaughters who are all musicians and teachers. In our last issue, we highlighted pianist Aisa Ijiri’s talents – and that story led to top cellist and composer Martin Tillman asking her to collaborate on a new piece of music – read more on page 26. We have to mention the B-word; the LARKmusic team is all set for Brexit, whatever happens, with offices across the UK and Ireland. We’ve been meeting our many Europe- based clients to let them know it is business as usual and in Cremona, Italy, we held a party for more than 150 guests, see pages 17-20. And lastly, thank you to guest contributor and saxophonist David Zucchi who reveals how US composer Charles Ives’ career as an insurance man did not stop him writing musical masterpieces.

Julie Webb, Client Director [email protected] Perfectly tuned insurance A musical journey from bow to baton If the local music service did not visit my school I would not be a musician, Jonathan Bloxham tells Private Client Director Julie Webb

Conductor Jonathan Bloxham, 31, made “Catherine is keen to bring in the best emotions pour out – these teenagers are his debut at Glyndebourne this autumn conductors, tutors and repertoire so the so affected by the coming together of after a journey to become a professional children receive fantastic experiences. the orchestra and playing together that musician kickstarted by his local music they are in tears. They are touched by “Like all such institutions its work needs education service. 120 young people playing together as one constant reviewing and Catherine’s orchestra. Three children in a class of eight-year-olds approach is to encourage creativity and put up their hands when asked, by John celebrate classical music. It’s not just about “I can see clearly how classical music Finnon of Gateshead Local Education playing to the highest possible standards.” remains so relevant and can affect people Authority’s music service, whether they today; the whole point of learning an would like to start playing the cello. He believes that classical music has to instrument is not just about music adapt to a changing world, to attract new but understanding each other and Jonathan was one of those pupils at Front audiences, create new projects and “plant understanding ourselves.” Street Primary School, in Whickham, seeds” of interest early in people’s lives. and he says if not for that opportunity he He found more inspiration in the recent would not be a professional cellist and He said he found conducting at the emotional speech by violinist Nicola conductor. NCO very moving: “At the end of the Benedetti, on the purpose, power last piece the orchestra plays together and necessity of music, at the Royal He said: “I had been playing the piano for there is always a moment when I see their Philharmonic Society. He said: “She is a about a year so I was enthusiastic about pioneer in music education and constantly trying another instrument. Three of us fights to find time to bring classical music started; a girl who gave up quite early and to a wider audience. a boy who went on to be a hedge fund “Having people like her to spearhead bank manager in Cambridge! initiatives is truly wonderful. She also “I really took to it but it’s sad to think “Jonathan has supports the NCO and we worked such a service no longer exists in that accomplished together on Prokofiev’s 2nd concerto at shape. It’s safe to say that my love of the the Queen Elizabeth Hall, in London. cello absolutely wouldn’t have happened technique, innate She and I both studied at the Menuhin without encouragement from my teacher musicianship, School.” John Finnon, which led on to playing in After the Menuhin School Jonathan the National Children’s Orchestra (NCO). natural rapport moved onto the Royal College of Music “The NCO sows the seeds of world-class with orchestras and to study with Thomas Carroll before music and with them I took another step completing a Masters Degree at the towards making a career in music – that’s a deep knowledge Guildhall School of Music and Drama why I still love to be involved. and understanding with Louise Hopkins. “Going back to conduct the NCO feels a of the symphonic During his career as a successful cellist, huge responsibility and privilege. It’s an and founder member of the Busch Trio, he incredible organisation which continues repertoire performed regularly at the Wigmore Hall, to be relevant and that’s down to the Kings Place and the Southbank Centre fabulous artistic and education director, and is a frequent guest on BBC Radio 3 – Catherine Arlidge MBE. She’s a violinist – Conductor Paavo Järvi but he had always hankered after being a conductor. I know from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) where I He said: “It was always there in my was assistant conductor. mind but I had sound advice from the →

4 Issue 9

5 Picture: Kaupo Kikkas Perfectly tuned insurance

MY GOAL: Jonathan says his job is to make opera singers feel comfortable on stage Picture: Jamie Smith → director of music at school – he said ‘Be and so was his father, so I think it was “It has been a hugely enriching process brilliant at the cello first. There’s no rush’. quite special that one of his students and a unique opportunity to hold “I am glad I took that advice but I was starting their journey with that rehearsals in the superb auditorium, got to a stage where my interest in wonderful orchestra. alongside director Christiane Lutz who brings a fresh, female perspective to a conducting grew. Even when the trio was “As an orchestra player, when you watch work that confronts questions of male establishing itself, I explored conducting Paavo it is totally clear what he would like power – in a 1950s update. at masterclasses across Europe.” you to do. His gestures are so beautiful Jonathan went onto win the Weiz and so clear. He forms an alchemy; he “My goal when conducting opera is for International Conducting Competition, suggests, invites and is not dictatorial. the singers to feel comfortable on stage in Austria, in 2010 and from there another Orchestras just have fun playing for him because they are baring all. and his understanding of orchestral styles landmark moment came while studying “It’s all so vulnerable and they are taking is immense. under Estonian conductor Paavo Järvi. such risks, so making sure they are at one Jonathan said: “I was looking at “Paavo has a unique background so to with me is the most wonderful thing. I felt masterclasses but there are very few led by receive little droplets of information is that I had that relationship and the best conductors. hugely important. That’s what I have possible start.” taken to Glyndebourne. “Paavo was holding a masterclass in And what does Paavo Järvi say of Estonia and I was accepted. While I was “I made my debut conducting the main his protégé? There is no hesitation: there I also joined a festival orchestra cast at the schools’ performance – it’s a “Jonathan has accomplished technique, under his baton. He got to see the other privilege to work there and on such an innate musicianship, natural rapport side of me, playing the cello, which really amazing piece, Rigoletto, because Verdi is with orchestras and a deep knowledge helped.” the quintessential opera composer.” and understanding of the symphonic repertoire”. In January 2015, Jonathan left the Busch Jonathan said the key lesson for young Ensemble and in April 2016 he was offered conductors was to watch and listen: With such an endorsement, it seems the position of assistant conductor at “Being given the chance to do that, certain that the hand raised at eight the City of Birmingham Symphony spending all summer and into autumn at years old will continue to create moving Orchestra. He said: “Previously Paavo had Glyndebourne, has been the best possible moments with orchestras for years to been the CBSO principal guest conductor, set up for me in the opera world. come.

6 Issue 9

1950s RIGOLETTO: Verdi’s opera receives a new treatment in the Glyndebourne Auditorium Pictures: Richard Herbert Smith & Leigh Simpson

Jonathan's biography 2016-2018: Assistant conductor, March 5: Shanghai Symphony City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony 2004: Menuhin School, studying Orchestra cello with Thomas Carroll Hall October 2019: Conductor of 2007-10: Undergraduate and March 8: China Philharmonic postgraduate cello studies at the Glyndebourne Touring Orchestra, Orchestra, Beijing Guildhall School of Music & Drama Verdi’s Rigoletto March 13: BBC National 2009: Founder Gateshead-based 2020 Diary Dates Orchestra of Wales, Brangwyn Northern Chords Festival February 2: Northern Chords Hall, Swansea Ensemble, Kings Place, London 2010-11: Postgraduate studies at March 15: BBC National the Guildhall School of Music February 14: Tapiola Sinfonietta, Orchestra of Wales, St George’s, 2010: Winner Weiz International Tapiola, Finland Brandon Hill, Bristol Conducting Competition, Austria March 1: Guangzhou Symphony April 19: The Deutsche 2010: Co-founder Busch Ensemble Orchestra, Xinghai Concert Hall, Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, piano trio China Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg

7 The one and only Chesney Hawkes by Lesley Bellew

When your father is in a chart-topping Chesney still performs and writes, but the sake of being famous, but if you are group, your mother is a TV star and you remembers his teenage dreams of success passionate about what you do and you learned to play music on John Lennon’s – and has sound advice for today’s young love it, like I love music, you are always piano, it might seem that an easy path into musicians about the pitfalls of sudden going to be happy.” fame. show business is guaranteed. His words echo guidance from his own But Chesney Hawkes was a 19-year-old “Kids can get success but there’s not father, Len ‘Chip’ Hawkes, a singer and pub pianist when he learned that, after a always enough mentoring for them,” says guitarist with The Tremeloes, whose top series of nerve-racking auditions, he had Chesney, who found young fans camping 10 hits included the 1967 No. 1 Silence Is emerged from hundreds of contenders to outside his parents’ home in the hope of Golden. catching a glimpse of the new young star. land a film part – playing a teenage would- Far from smoothing his son’s way into be pop singer – opposite The Who’s “They get some kind of fame, but that show business, he urged Chesney: celebrated frontman Roger Daltrey. doesn’t always last, so there can be “Remember where you come from and The film, Buddy’s Song, included a catchy disillusion and it is easy to fall down dark remember who got you there.” ways unless you’re grounded or have good number, The One And Only, which spent Chesney recalls: “It’s about being aware five weeks at No 1 in the UK charts in people around you. of everything around you; it is so easy to 1991, which made Chesney a teen idol “I never thought about fame when I was get a big head. If you are lucky enough to and led to a lifelong friendship with its younger – I just spent my every waking have success in the music industry, then composer, Nik Kershaw. hour thinking about music and writing hang on to it but remember that it can be fleeting and don’t believe your own hype. Now 48, based in Los Angeles with songs. I say ‘Do it because it’s what you his wife of 22 years, Kristina, and their love to do’. “Even if you have not had success but three children Casey, Jesse and Indiana, “Some people want to be famous for people are giving you a record deal or

8 spending money on you, you can easily had a lot to do with my love of music. All Chesney recalls that Lennon’s former start believing you are the greatest thing of my dad’s mates were 60s stars – Gerry Beatles band-mate Ringo Starr later since sliced bread. Marsden, Marmalade, Dave Dee, The acquired the house and with it an elegant, Searchers and those guys were always upright piano. “Remember, we are just making music, we around. are not changing the world – well, maybe “The piano is beautiful, made in the late sometimes – but we are entertaining “My dad would take me to gigs to watch 1800s, by Broadwood, who have often people.” him playing. We knew a lot of kids from made pianos for royalty, but Ringo didn’t families of musicians. The Tremeloes’ kids want John’s piano and put it out on the Perhaps growing up naturally in an were friends with us, and further into my lawn. The sound engineer at the studio in entertainment environment helped career I could hang out with people like Tittenhurst Park, where my dad was also develop such a grounded attitude. Julian Lennon. working, said anyone who wanted it could Chesney’s mother is Carole Dilworth, take it, and my dad got a van! who was a hostess on the popular TV “I feel an affinity with children of rock game show The Golden Shot, and has stars. We spent all our time with music “So I learned to play on the piano on acting credits including an episode of around us and we thought ‘That’s what which John Lennon composed songs. TV comedy-drama Randall and Hopkirk you do’.” I took it when I moved into my own (Deceased). It so happened that among their home but when I went to LA I gave it to Nik Kershaw on a permanent loan. Nik “My parents met on a TV show and have neighbours in the Berkshire town is an old friend; we have written songs been married since 1969 – they are a rock of Sunningdale, near Ascot, were together, I have recorded his songs and I ’n’ roll success story!” says Chesney. “To John Lennon and Yoko Ono, whose love him dearly.” them, family is everything. Now that’s the Tittenhurst Park home featured in the same for me. My environment definitely iconic video for the song Imagine. Chesney’s father also acquired a → 9 Perfectly tuned insurance

10 ‘People in power generally have no artistic background’

Mellotron, a combination of keyboard camps to festivals, and, having toured →and tape player seen as a precursor to the in the musical Can’t Smile Without You, synthesiser, which he has since lent to featuring the songs of Barry Manilow, is The Beatles Story museum in Liverpool, writing a show of his own in collaboration and which might have been the one used with producer Jake Gosling, whose on the recording of Strawberry Fields previous clients include Ed Sheeran, Sam Forever. Smith, Paloma Faith and One Direction. Chesney says: “It used to belong to “The musical is a very English story but Jeff Lynne, of ELO. It definitely had a work in progress,” he says. “I want it to that unique 70s sound. You hear it on open in England and hope to get it off the Monkees records, Marvin Gaye’s I Heard ground next year. I spend about half my It Through The Grapevine, Supertramp year in the UK and always love playing at and Queen’s You’re My Best Friend. gigs and festivals. “It was a huge old walnut wood piece. “I have written some more songs and They have big washing machine motors ROCK IDOL: Chesney Hawkes with The there are a few that got away! There are in them, so they were a real mechanical Who's lead singer Roger Daltrey ups and downs, especially in this business, beast! You press the keys and it presses and if you don’t dust yourself down you the tape-play head down inside the are never going to get anywhere. machine and that is like the original a kid. I remember when I was at school “I spent the summer holidays with the ‘sampler’. You had to start it up with a key, and wanted to take music, but because so it literally had an ignition!” family and I am loving it, spending time there were only three of us they just with the kids by the pool. The family musical connection was didn’t run the course. strengthened by Chesney’s brother, Jodie, “In LA we are right in the mountains and “People in power generally have no we go for sunset hikes in the canyons. who plays as Chesney’s drummer, and artistic background and go through elitist sister Keely, who had a recording and Then there’s nothing like a cold beer and private schools. Music is not part of songwriting career of her own, including a barbecue!” their life so they will never really singing with the band Transister. understand it. Chesney says: “Dad had a back-room “Art, music, acting and theatre – that side Chesney’s UK studio where we used to rehearse. I was always interested in playing. There were of life is so important, just as important gig guide 2020 guitars propped up all over the place and as English and history. It is crazy that it is May 30 Newport: Let’s Rock he had a drum kit. not seen that way. It helps creativity, gives you a sense of community and joy and Wales “Now my kids in LA are getting the most without that side of life kids do not thrive July 25 Tewkesbury: unbelievable experiences – they are all so much. in music, theatre and artistic academies App-Festival “Making music is fun and it brings and I see the difference it makes to their July 26 London: Half Moon, people together. It makes connections to personalities. It gives them confidence – Putney the ability to talk to people. For me, it’s emotions and people that you can’t get in like part of growing up, the air that you any other way.” August 1 Belfast: Let’s Rock Belfast breathe. Chesney, meanwhile, is a successful “I think music education in the UK is songwriter and continues to play gigs, Visit: chesneyhawkes.com awful, it’s been going downhill since I was from universities and Butlin’s holiday

Issue 9 My mother was the Delia Smith of violin teaching

Michael Vyner’s mother had a lot to answer for. If she had not knocked on the door of Eta Cohen’s semi-detached home in Leeds, her son’s life, and that of Eta’s own daughter Maureen, might have taken very different courses, writes Lesley Bellew Maureen was not yet at school, but watching Eta using her groundbreaking technique to teach Michael how to play the violin mesmerised the young child, and inspired the desire for her own musical career. Michael went on to become musical director of the London Sinfonietta, and Maureen an acclaimed professional soloist and teacher – just two examples of the extraordinary success of the young musical life of Leeds, and a tiny part of the story of what became known as the Eta Cohen Violin Method – a method, encapsulated in four volumes of best- KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY: Left, Eta Cohen teaching at home and above, her daughter selling books, which became renowned Maureen and grandaughters Emma and Sophie who are all musicians and teachers throughout the world. and led to the first publication, in 1940, Southbank Centre, Julian Shevlin, leader Maureen, whose own daughters, Emma of the Eta Cohen Violin Method. This of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra, and Sophie, have also become musicians was a step-by-step book enabling pupils and Lyn Fletcher, leader of the Hallé and teachers, says: “I met teachers who to progress at their own speed, using Orchestra. James Murphy, chief executive used my mother’s book in Singapore and familiar tunes, with an emphasis on good of the Royal Philharmonic Society, her death was announced on the radio in bowing and intonation. referred to her tutorials as: “Truly the Australia. Sophie went for three months Eta believed music tuition had previously Delia Smith of violin methods.” to teach at a music school in Mumbai. confused pupils by trying to cover too When she arrived, she found Eta’s book Born in Sunderland, in 1916, Eta showed much at once, and that her gradual on a music stand. They had no idea it was promise as a young violinist. As soon as progression produced better results; and, her granny.” she left school she started to teach and while she firmly encouraged parental was asked by the local council to take on Recalling those fateful days in Leeds, support, Maureen says she even took school teaching. She looked for a tutor Maureen remembers Michael Vyner’s care to ensure that her lessons did not book to assist her, but in 1933 there were lessons, and the excitement of pupils clash with her younger pupils’ favourite no such books on the market. Undeterred arriving at the door. She said “It made television programmes. In fact, she Eta wrote out each lesson for her students me want to play.” And so she did. Taught created what became known as the by hand. This was before the days of ‘Neighbours Vibrato Exercise’, for them to by Eta, she later entered a local violin photocopiers. These lessons became do while watching the Australian soap. contest, and not only beat Michael, but the foundation for her method, which also the long-reigning champion, who Among leading violinists taught by Eta’s was subsequently published as a book. stomped off in disgust. method, according to her 2012 obituary However, even as an experienced teacher It was early vindication of Eta’s teaching, in the Daily Telegraph, were Marshall she still took lessons into her 20s, with which had started when she was 16, Marcus, former head of music at the the Hungarian violinist, Carl Flesch and →

13 Perfectly tuned insurance

FIRST STEPS: Children across the world have learned how to play the violin through Eta Cohen’s method books

Austrian-born protégé Max Rostal. became a writer and academic and moved and violinist Szymon Goldberg. She → to Australia. shared masterclasses with Yehudi Her reputation was already established Menuhin on BBC TV. when she moved to Leeds near the end of The composer Alan Bush dedicated his the Second World War. After marrying piece Concertino for Two Violins and Previously a professor at the Royal College Ephraim Smith, a businessman in the Piano to the sisters, who gave its premier of Music, Maureen has given masterclasses cloth industry and, like her, the child of during his 80th birthday concert at the in Europe, Asia and Australia, and Jewish Lithuanian immigrants, she went Aldeburgh Festival. performed widely as soloist and chamber on to break ground – forming a string musician including radio and TV and many Maureen is married to former barrister orchestra for her students, as well as charity fundraising events. writing and speaking around the world. and Crown Court Judge, Geoffrey Rivlin QC, who took part in many notable She says: “So much can be expressed Eta taught until she was 90, and lived to cases. She has performed in a trio with through music which cannot be said with be 96. Her Method books, now in their her daughters, pianist Emma and cellist words. It is a place where I am totally sixth edition, are these days published Sophie, both Cambridge Instrumental free to express my emotions. So often in with accompanying CDs, and her legacy Award-holders, and says even her everyday life we hold back our emotions, also continues through her musical granddaughter “is already teaching her but when you can channel them into music, family. Maureen says: “My mother was toys, and wants to become a teacher.” you have an outlet which is absolutely safe extraordinary; in her era, it was unusual and breaks down all barriers.” to be a working woman. Teaching was in Now Professor of Violin at the Royal her blood, and now ours, but I think her Academy of Music, Maureen won the Michael Vyner, meanwhile, worked for ambitions in musical performance were BBC violin competition at the age of 18, publisher Schott Music, and was with the lived by my sister Hazel and I. performing the Sibelius Violin Concerto. London Sinfonietta from 1972, expanding Her Royal Academy biography notes that its commissioning of compositions, “My mother thought it was incredibly in the same year she made her debut at the overseeing a series of tours abroad and important for all children to learn a Proms, under Sir Malcolm Sargent, and festivals at home, and beginning an musical instrument and that it taught she has played as soloist with a number education programme. On his untimely them a discipline and focus which of leading orchestras, under conductors death in 1989, several tribute pieces were affected all aspects of their life. I, myself, including Sir Adrian Boult and Sir John written by the likes of Harrison Birtwistle remember Joan Clanchy, the headmistress Barbirolli. and Peter Maxwell Davies, and a trust of North London Collegiate School, in his memory was established to assist With the London Symphony Orchestra, allowing numerous concessions to the young composers. music department. She said this did not she performed at a Royal Festival Hall affect the girls’ education. In fact, quite concert attended by the Queen, having Maureen and Michael did not keep in the reverse – the musicians all did well been a soloist at the venue at the age of 14 everyday contact, but Maureen said: “In above average academically, and their with the National Youth Orchestra, in the addition to the Sinfonietta he was the music was of enormous benefit.” presence of the Queen Mother. artistic director of the Leeds Festival of Music, and about two months before he After her grounding with her own As young adults, Maureen and Hazel died, no doubt knowing he had limited performed together on BBC TV, and in mother, she emulated Eta’s Hungarian time left, he invited me to play the Barber concerts in Britain and aboard. Hazel tutorial path with Endre Wolf and Gyorgy Concerto at the next festival in June 1990. went on to become a freelance violinist Pauk in Manchester and, after being playing with the London Sinfonietta, awarded Gulbenkian and Leverhulme “Sadly, he didn’t live to attend the Philharmonia Orchestra, and leading the Fellowships, in the USA, with Josef concert, but somehow this brought our contemporary music ensemble, Lysis. She Gingold, and in London with conductor friendship full circle.”

14 Issue 9

MUSICAL TRIO: Hazel and Maureen with their mother EARLY DAYS: Eta teaching on a small violin

BOW TO BOW: A pupil follows Eta’s lead TALKING SHOP: Maureen with virtuoso violinist Gyorgy Pauk

AT WORK: Maureen coaching a student for an orchestral project GIRLS TOGETHER: Maureen with daughters Emma and Sophie

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Performance is a trading name of Aston Lark Limited. Aston Lark Limited are authorised and regulated by the FCA. Registered in England and Wales No: 02831010 Registered office: Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London, EC3N 1DY. Issue 9 The Italian Your go-to solution for job Film & Media Insurance

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What matters to you, matters to us. www.performance-insurance.tv At home in Europe, our team hosts a party for 150 friends who gather

Performance is a trading name of Aston Lark Limited. Aston Lark Limited are authorised and regulated by the FCA. Registered in England and Wales No: 02831010 Registered office: Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London, EC3N 1DY. in Cremona during Mondomusica Perfectly tuned insurance Lark Music team in tune with Europe

story in here ... celebrating with a party in the palace

LARK TEAM: Top right, David Foster, HarryMaynard, Rebecca Edwards , Julie Webb and Dan Bodell, in Cremona, under the gaze of the Stradivarius statue near the Museo del Violino FRIENDS REUNITED: Left, Fay Watts, luthier Maarten De Keukeleire and Rebecca Edwards catch up in at the grand Palazzo Trecchi party

18 Issue 9 Lark Music team in tune with Europe ... celebrating with a party in the palace

LARK TEAM: Top right, David Foster, HarryMaynard, Rebecca Edwards , Julie Webb and Dan Bodell, in Cremona, PARTY PEOPLE: Pictures from the party include Lark Music account handler under the gaze of the Stradivarius statue near the Museo del Violino Charlotte Barrett and luthier Kasper Pankow; Mr and Mrs Mathis Heligers; Julie FRIENDS REUNITED: Left, Fay Watts, luthier Maarten De Keukeleire and Rebecca Edwards catch up in at the Webb and concert pianist Aisa Ijiri, guests from Denmark, France and Germany grand Palazzo Trecchi party including three trainee luthiers Marius Teyssier, Louise Boisson and Lena David

19 Perfectly tuned insurance Talking shop in Cremona Every year the Lark Music team visits Cremona, in Italy, to meet clients, friends and prospective clients who travel in from all over the world for Mondomusica, writes Julie Webb. This September, we took along a couple of new members of the claims team, Harry Maynard and Dan Bodell so they could see what goes on in the world capital of stringed instruments. More than 100 luthiers live and work in the town but many hundreds more pour in for Mondomusica. While Acting Manager Fay Watts and Account Handler Charlotte Barrett went off to see about new business we visited LARK LIFE: David Foster and Julie Webb meet violinist Lena Yokoyama at Museo del Museo del Violino, home to an incredible Violino; and below left, David gives Harry a fast-track lesson about the components which collection of violins and artefacts from make up a violin. Below right, some of the exquisite instruments on display at the museum Stradivari’s workshop. We were also lucky enough to listen to a recital by Lena Yokoyama who played on ‘Vesuvius’, a 1727 Antonio Stradivari violin. The precious violins have to be played and they get an airing during lunchtime performances. After admiring the Amati, Stradivari and Guarneri violas, violins and cellos we enjoyed Lena’s flawless performance of extracts from Bach, Vivaldi, Massenet and Bizet, made all the better with fine acoustics in the museum’s extraordinary auditorium built with curving lines that make visitors feel as if they are in the inside of a musical instrument. At an after-performance chat, Lark Music client Lena she told us she had only had time for 20 minutes’ practice - and then she was off to Turin to rehearse with Trio We’re at the ready! Kanon. She couldn’t join our party in Like most of Europe, we are fed up branch of RL, ensuring a smooth Palazzo Trecchi but we pledged to meet again! with the B word! The good news, transition and continuity in terms however, is that as far as Lark Music is of staff and service. We felt it was As well as the music treat, Harry and concerned, it will be business as usual, important to give our EU clients Dan had a fast-track lesson in the writes Aston Lark Executive Director certainty and continuity for the future construction, craftsmanship and history David Foster. of the greatest string instruments ever of their insurance arrangements. Our made. There are 700 moulds, drawings While awaiting the outcome of the partnership with RL gives us both of and tools in the museum, rescued by General Election, we have spent a great these things. deal of our time making preparations Bolognese violinmaker Giuseppe Fiorini, As you will see from our feature we and given to Cremona in 1930. for Brexit. have been celebrating our relationship Irrespective of the outcome, Lark In the evening, more than 150 friends with a party for some of our our EU- Music will be able to continue to graced our party at Palazzo Trecchi, in based luthiers and dealers! the oldest part of Cremona, a magnificent handle insurance for dealers, musicians building from the 15th century with and orchestras via our EU-based If you have any questions, please get 19th century neo-Gothic adornments. partner broker Robertson Low (RL). in touch with me or a member of our Guests from France, Germany, Italy, We have arranged for three members team. Thank you for your continued Denmark and more gathered until late to of our existing Lark Music team in support and custom. talk shop and learn about Lark Music’s London to transfer to the London Email [email protected] commitment to clients across Europe.

20 Perfectly tuned insurance Because helping even the youngest musician strikes a chord with us

Our Music policy has been carefully designed to allow you to enjoy playing your instrument with complete peace of mind, whatever your age. Lark Music is focused on protecting your possessions and supporting the musical arts.

www.larkmusic.com

Lark Music is a trading name of Aston Lark Limited Registered in England and Wales No: 02831010. Registered office: Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London, EC3N 1DY Aston Lark Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Perfectly tuned insurance

Just one simple note can mean so much Musicians’ Company project leaders ‘spurred on to seek more rewarding work’ after experiencing special moments Just one touch of a bassoon, feeling the vibration of sound, triggers a response from a visually impaired child with profound learning difficulties. It’s a special moment for Catriona McDermid, bassoonist and the project’s lead musician of the Musicians’ Company. Catriona’s outreach work at Swiss Cottage School, in North London, a special school for learners with complex physical and emotional needs has, she says, opened up “a myriad of new ways of communicating and connecting with others through music”. Her work in the project, which involves CHILD’S PLAY: Swiss Cottage pupils enjoy the interaction of music-making several Yeomen Young Artists playing cognition. Some 85% of the school’s 260 would like a consistent presence for for and engaging with young people, pupils are classified as living below the project work at Swiss Cottage School, involves Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 students to poverty line and Monika appreciates that given the positive impact they have participate in interactive workshops. For the children and their families are rarely witnessed on students’ confidence and many of the learners, it is difficult to find able to access to music in any other way. musical progression.” the right medium for communication, The Yeomen Young Artists, supported by Lark Music, as a supporter of the yet by playing, touching or listening to the Musicians’ Company have found the Worshipful Company of Musicians, is the instruments, a mode of expression is experience equally beneficial. Catriona thrilled to hear first-hand the reciprocal unlocked. says the project has ‘really spurred me benefit of the outreach work and we look Monika Gaweda, Head of Swiss Cottage on to seek out more of this exceptionally forward to supporting future initiatives. School, says she is delighted by the rewarding work’. Yeomen Musicians’ approach to ‘intensive Established in 2004, the Livery interaction’ with the students. Company’s outreach programme has Across the course of several weeks, the grown considerably, and in 2018 more musicians begin their sessions with a than 40 artists made 166 visits to 46 short melody, which becomes familiar to schools, reaching almost 8,500 children. the students. Janet Yerbury, Director of Outreach, After this opening, those pupils who are explained that over the last couple able to play the instruments themselves of years there has been a shift from take the reins and lead the sessions, and single outreach work to project-based the musicians mirror their responses. initiatives, as this is the most effective method of ensuring continuity and This process is particularly impressive building relationships. to Monika because it links to the school’s two pillars – communication and Janet said: “Ideally, our outreach team

22 Issue 9 MUSICAL NOTES News from Charlotte Barrett Account handler

23 Perfectly tuned insurance Tune into the UK’s immigration rules for overseas musicians

For professional and budding musicians, navigating the UK’s immigration system can be challenging. Marcia Longdon, a partner in the leading immigration team at Kingsley Napley LLP, sheds some light on the potential options depending on whether the musician intends to make a fleeting visit to the UK to perform or stay for longer.

Just passing through the UK must meet the same conditions. It typically covers one-off and short engagements. If these criteria are met, The key conditions include that visitors The UK operates a two tiered entry a professional musician may carry out cannot work in the UK and cannot be system for visitors – for ‘visa’ nationals an activity directly relating to their paid from a UK source. For international and ‘non-visa’ nationals. profession if they have been invited professional musicians seeking to work Non-visa nationals are able to enter the by a creative (arts or entertainment) UK as visitors without first obtaining a in the UK, those rules are unhelpful and organisation, agent or broadcaster based prior visa and are given a ‘visa’ on entry. impractical. in the UK. As such, they CAN work in the For example a US passport holder However, help is at hand for musicians UK at the PPE(s) and be paid for it. can enter the UK and would be given who meet the criteria for a Permitted Paid Another potential option for musicians permission to enter at the airport. Engagement (PPE) where they can show is the ‘permit-free festivals’ rule which Whereas visa nationals must apply for the PPE was arranged before travelling would allow an overseas musician to a prior visa from outside the UK before to the UK, the PPE was declared as part work in the UK and be paid so long as arrival. of the visitor visa application or on entry the festival(s) they are to perform at So, a South African passport holder would at port, they have a formal invitation, and are included on the Home Office’s list. be required to file an application through the PPE relates to the musician’s area of Recognised festivals include, for example, the British post and ask for permission to expertise and occupation overseas and is the Snape Proms, the Cheltenham come to the UK. Regardless, all visitors to for no longer than four weeks. Festivals, Glastonbury and many others.

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EARNING A LIVING: Where a professional musician wants to stay and work in the UK permanently, they may want to apply in a category that leads to settlement and subsequently British Citizenship says Marcia Longdon

Earning your crust Arts Council England and the qualifying students who complete a UK degree threshold is high. Musical performers qualification. This would be a useful Many musicians based outside the UK with less experience could apply as visa for students who need to ‘bridge may wish to work in the UK for longer someone with ‘Exceptional Promise’ but the gap’ between study and work than would be permitted under the visitor regardless, applicants must show they and it does not require sponsorship rules. One potential option is the Tier 5 have, for example, professionally engaged from a UK employer, only completion (Temporary Worker – Creative) category. in producing work of outstanding quality of a UK degree qualification. If that The visa can be issued for up to a which has been performed internationally, category of application were to return, maximum of 12 months and could then be received lots of international media young musicians would have a useful extended from within the UK to a total of recognition and won or made a significant immigration stepping stone for their early 24 months. To be eligible, sponsorship is contribution to winning an international career. required from a UK employer with a Tier award such as a Grammy. 5 Sponsor Licence and the musician would need to show they will make a unique Learning your trade Kingsley Napley LLP’s specialist contribution to the UK labour market. Budding musicians may wish to apply via a immigration team has been advising businesses and individuals on all UK music school for a Tier 4 student visa. For example, because they are aspects of UK immigration and Equally, where a talented young musician internationally renowned or are required nationality law for over 20 years and attends specialist musical schooling in the for continuity purposes. With such a visa is top ranked in Chambers and Legal UK, inevitably a parent will want to be it would also be possible to do a second 500. able to visit the child in the UK. job in the same sector and at the same This article is intended to level as the main job for up to 20 hours per The parent may therefore wish to submit highlight issues that may be week. This means the musician could do a ‘Parent of a Tier 4 (Child) student’ of interest only. It does not extra performances/concerts for another application which is applicable where constitute advice, i.e. is not organisation and wouldn’t require direct the parent will be the sole carer for the intended to be a substitute sponsorship. child who is under 12 and is to attend an for up-to-date, fact specific independent fee paying day school in the and comprehensive legal or Setting up shop UK. Such a visa would be issued for up other professional advice. If to 12 months and the parent would not be Where a professional musician wants to you have any questions arising permitted to work in the UK or make the stay and work in the UK permanently, out of the issues raised, UK their main home. they may want to apply in a category that please contact a member of leads to settlement and subsequently Prior to the election announcement the our team on +44 (0)20 7814 British Citizenship. government had indicated it planned to 1200 or visit our website at One such category is the Tier 1 revive the Post Study Work category (in www.kingsleynapley.co.uk/ (Exceptional Talent) category. Applicants the form of the Graduate Immigration immigration. need to first apply for endorsement from Route) from the summer of 2021 for

25 Perfectly tuned insurance Our magazine brings musicians together Julie Webb reveals how Hollywood film composer and cellist Martin Tillman discovered pianist Aisa Ijiri through LARKmusic

In the last issue of LARKmusic our cover story featuring London-based Aisa Ijiri told how she followed her heart to become a top-flight pianist. ‘Follow your heart’ became the issue’s theme and at Wigmore Hall, in London, the magazine caught the eye of Bafta award-winning orchestral conductor and composer Richard Harvey so he picked up a copy and put it into his wife’s handbag. We at LARKmusic were thrilled to hear this as we are great fans of Richard’s work which includes guitar concerto, Concerto Antico for classical guitarist John Williams, which was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra. At home, Richard read Aisa’s story and he was both touched and impressed by her focus and musical prowess. Like Aisa, he IN RECORDING: Martin and Aisa during the Classic FM recording at Steinway Hall. was also a student at the Royal College of See the video on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrUx3GpMlZ0 Music. Richard has also been writing symphonic played the piece in a special arrangement Europe and to welcome Martin there to work for cello and orchestra for Swiss for piano solo, string trio and e-cello. debut the piece was amazing! It was met cellist Martin Tillman. When Martin Martin said he was particularly proud of with great appreciation by the audience.” this, the world premiere. arrived at Richard’s studio, telling him Martin added: “I can’t wait for Until We about a piece of music he had written in Martin, 55, said he was ‘thrilled’ to have Meet Again to travel the world and find memory of his wife who had passed away been able to discover Aisa. He told me listeners who can relate to the music. I in April 2019, he asked if he knew anyone over lunch in London: “It was an amazing wrote the piece to say goodbye, it is a who he could work with. He said he was coincidence. I needed to find a fantastic melancholic love song that is also hopeful looking for a pianist to play the piece pianist and there in front of me, in your and optimistic.” ‘Until We Meet Again’ – so Richard said: magazine, was Aisa.” “Why don’t you contact this pianist,” and handed over the LARKmusic magazine. Martin, who has composed Hollywood film scores for Face Off, starring John Emmy-nominated Martin did just that Travolta and Nicholas Cage, as well as and earlier this summer he came to Iron Man and Total Recall, has been based London. One of the first versions of the in Los Angeles for many years but is often piece for piano and orchestra, was a in Europe to pursue new projects. relaxed improvisation playing his e-cello alongside Aisa for Classic FM at Steinway Aisa said: “It was very exciting to be Hall. asked by Martin to work with him. I was inspired by this creative collaboration and The piece was recorded with the Prague it all went very well. Symphony Orchestra at the end of August for official release in 2020. And at the “The debut at the Montecatini Piano opening gala concert at the Montecatini Festival was special because it was the Piano Festival, in Italy, Martin and Aisa first piano festival that I had organised in

26 Issue 9

PHOTO CALL: Martin and Aisa at Steinway Hall, ready to play Until We Meet Again for the first time, and below, Aisa signing autographs and copies of LARKMusic at the Montecatini Festival. Bottom left, Martin before the opening gala at the Montecatini Festival

27 ABOVE: Charlotte Barrett and Julie Webb outside the imposing doorway BELOW: The Wilton’s name is back in lights

Picture: Peter Dazeley Curtain up on the world’s only (and Spike’s beloved) grand music hall

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MAIN PICTURE: Beautiful Wilton’s Music Hall with original barley twist columns ABOVE: Spike Milligan encourages a visitor to support Wilton’s Music Hall after it fell into disrepair and the comedian successfully invited HRH Prince Charles to join the rescue campaign RIGHT: Three posters depicting Wilton’s bygone era

29 Perfectly tuned insurance

Wilton’s Music Hall, with its colourful history worthy of any drama, is like walking into a time warp, says Julie Webb

From the original Champagne Charlie to → Charles, Prince of Wales, via connections with the Muppets, the Kray twins, Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Killing Eve star Fiona Shaw, the colourful history of Wilton’s Music Hall is worthy of any drama on stage or film. If not for the determination of humorist Spike Milligan and other supporters, including former Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman, the building in London’s East End might have been demolished long ago. Since then Wilton’s, established in 1859, has been restored as a theatre and music venue of extraordinary character – it’s still work in progress and entering the foyer feels as if you are in a time warp, stepping back into another era. Big names such Duran Duran, Adam Ant, Kate Bush and Bryan Ferry have performed or recorded at the venue, which has also hosted concerts ranging from opera to well as music videos such as Frankie Goes hats’). Reviews at the time relished in cabaret and jazz. to Hollywood’s controversial Relax. describing the space: “It is cold and smells However, the event which finally damp. The paint peels. The gold, papier- Director and playwright John Caird sums maché moulding on the balcony is rotting. up Wilton’s perfectly: “The charm of the relaunched Wilton’s as a significant venue You are advised not to lean on it.” space, the diversity and quality of the for live performance came in 1997, when work and the historical importance of the actress Fiona Shaw – who recently starred Charles Spence, of the Daily Telegraph, site make it an indispensable part of the as a ruthless MI6 agent in cult TV drama called the lavatories ‘breathtakingly London theatre scene.” Killing Eve – performed T.S. Eliot’s The squalid’ but added: “Wilton’s is an Waste Land. However, redevelopment plans for the archetypal London secret, and its area between Wapping and Whitechapel, In the middle of winter, the hall was abandoned, mysterious atmosphere close to the Tower of London, threatened unheated and a flyer said ‘please dress perfectly suits this elusive, allusive demolition in the 1960s, until Betjeman warmly’ (one journalist added ‘wear hard London poem.” backed a campaign to preserve it, and it was not until the 1970s that theatre historian John Earl and actor Peter Honri From the 1880s, when Wilton’s closed because it did could launch a trust to buy the lease of the not meet safety regulations, it was saved by a local now listed building. Wesleyan Mission which had long harangued the music Milligan’s support proved pivotal – he hall for the ‘drinking and debauchery’ it encouraged. had arranged in 1970 for the BBC to film a Until the 1950s the mission… show at Wilton’s, The Handsomest Hall in Town, starring Peter Sellers and Ronnie • Fed 2,000 people a day during the 1889 Dockers strike Barker, and with a script by Dad’s Army creator Jimmy Perry. The following year • Housed the first Ethiopian working men’s club in the 1920s he convinced Prince Charles to become a • Supported East End anti-fascists in the 1930s providing a patron, concluding his letter: “You never safe haven during the Battle of Cable Street in 1936 know, it might get you a knighthood.” The prince visited Wilton’s with the • Ran free Sunday activities for local children Duchess of Cornwall when its main • Gave free fruit to local children as a health initiative restoration was completed in 2016. The atmosphere of the still derelict • Ran free cinema screenings for the local community building began to attract film-makers and • Offered skills training in sewing, woodwork and literacy was used in The Krays, starring Martin and Gary Kemp, Richard Attenborough’s • Offered shelter during two World Wars Chaplin, and Muppets Most Wanted, as

30 Issue 9

At least the hall had come a long way from Wilton sold up in 1868 and within 13 years running costs of more than £1.5 million. the lament of 19th century Methodist the hall was closed, despite refurbishment At the same time Aston Lark took on their Pastor Ernest C. Willis that it was the after a devastating fire which at least commercial insurances, and since then “resort of many people of ill-repute.” spared the 10 iron barley-twist columns have looked after the hall’s property and liability risks. He reported: “Sailors were induced that still support the balcony. to enter, drink and dance. On many For the next 70 years it housed a As well as staging more than 80 occasions these men were plied with Wesleyan Mission until the mid-1960s productions a year, the music hall has drink, knocked senseless and, after being when it was used for storage by textile established a Learning and Participation robbed, were thrown out into Graces recycling firm Coppermill. Studio and a scheme, supported by the Alley.” Noël Coward Foundation, to mentor When the latest restoration began, rags emerging theatre creators, and will stage The music hall was established by were discovered under the floorboards, Wilton’s Music 4all Festival in May next Victorian benefactor John Wilton, along with pipes and bottles from music year, featuring emerging musical talent. bedecked with mirrors and chandeliers, hall audiences and toy soldiers and badges with the aim of providing West End-style of Methodist youth groups. Do pay Wilton’s Music Hall a visit, it entertainment for the working people really is one of London’s best-kept secrets, of East London, and staged madrigal The Wilton’s Music Hall Trust was staging wonderful shows in such an concerts, opera, circus, ballet and formed in 2004, and has raised more atmospheric theatre – and the Mahogany fairground events, as well as traditional than £3 million for its award-winning and Cocktail Bars serve seasonal food and music hall acts from George ‘Champagne restoration project, but receives no locally-sourced drinks, including craft Charlie’ Leybourne. regular public funding, and has annual beers and specialty gins.

Events 2020 November 29-January 4: Christmas Carol A Fairytale: by Piers Torday – directed by Stephanie Street. The reimagined production features a female central character, THEN AND NOW: Wilton’s Music Hall after failling into disrepair, and below it is now a written as the sister of much-loved venue for music fans Charles Dickens’ original character Ebenezer Scrooge. February 18-19: Magician Ben Hart, Britain’s Got Talent 2019 finalist. May 11-16: Wilton’s Music 4all Festival: Emerging musical talent in Opera; Contemporary and Jazz; Popular, Rock and Indie; Urban, Electronic and DJ; Cabaret. Festival includes Songs for the Hall: Young people from East London with a selection of songs chosen by Steve Pretty, founder of the Hackney Colliery Band. Visit wiltons.org.uk

31 Charles Ives Picture: Courtesy of Yale University

32 Issue 9 Composer who was ahead of his time Guest contributor David Zucchi pays tribute to insurance man whose creative spirit made him one of America’s greatest modernist composers

One hundred years ago, it would have starting a successful firm of his own in been conceivable to assume Charles Ives’ 1907, where he worked until retirement. legacy would rest largely on the success Fortunately, abandoning a career in of his insurance firm, Ives and Myrick, music did not indicate the end of his and for his contributions to the insurance composition work. Instead, he composed industry – specifically, “Life Insurance in private on evenings and weekends, in Relation to Estate Tax”, his guide for giving little indication to those around navigating the US Government’s new him what he was working on. inheritance tax laws. Most of his colleagues in insurance were Decades later, Leonard Bernstein would surprised to learn that this successful, refer to him as “[America’s] first really practical worker was a composer, great composer; our pride and our although his secretary once noted passion; our Washington, Lincoln, and “Sometimes Mr Ives would be dictating Jefferson of music.” a letter, and all of a sudden, something David Zucchi is a London-based Canadian in the music line would come up in his Even a more sober account of Ives’ saxophonist who performs classical, head, and he’d cut off the letter and go composition legacy will hopefully reveal contemporary, experimental and jazz music that despite labouring in seclusion for into music. Music was on his mind all the decades and the absence of anything time.” the technique by Bartok and Stravinsky resembling a conventional music career, Works which are now among his by several years, and in many ways a Charles Ives was one of the most radical most celebrated were composed after prototype of Ives’ works to come. composers of the 20th century. ostensibly “abandoning” composition. He was born in 1874 in Danbury, He continued his formal education at Free from the restrictions imposed by a Connecticut, into a distinguished Yale under the tutelage of Horatio Parker. public that had often found his works too American family. His father was a band He was, by all accounts, a successful and radical, Ives explored uncharted territory. popular student, and by the end of his leader with eccentric tendencies: as While he wrote many works in this early studies had produced a substantial and children, Charles and his brothers were period, “The Unanswered Question”, skilfully written First Symphony. on occasion instructed to sing folk songs and to a lesser extent, “Central Park in in one key, while the father would play the Upon completing his studies, Ives the Dark”, stand out as some of his most piano in a different key. began working in life insurance while enduring contributions. continuing to establish himself as a The senior Ives is also alleged to have The former is a metaphysical meditation composer and organist, seemingly on directed two marching bands to march on the nature of existence, in which the track for a successful career in music. past each other for the sheer delight orchestra is grouped into three sections: of hearing the clash of sounds. While However, in 1902, aged 27, and the the strings, or “The Silence of the Druids”, some of these tales surrounding Charles’ week after the premiere of his cantata form a still bed of sound over which the upbringing are surely apocryphal, his The Celestial Country, Ives decided to trumpet, or “The Question of Existence,’’ father was an undoubtedly important abandon his pursuit of a career in music. intones a completely harmonically figure in his music education, and by his Reasons are unclear – whether it was for unrelated melody. adolescent years, Charles was a proficient practical concerns or for a general anxiety The third section, performed by the organist and composer. regarding mixed reviews of his work. woodwinds or the “Fighting Answerers”, At 17, he wrote his Variations on He resigned his position as organist at attempt to formulate a response to the “America” (My Country ‘tis of Thee), the Central Presbyterian Church, and his question posed by the trumpet (similarly a virtuoso work for organ featuring works would not be performed publicly unrelated to the string texture) – and in bitonality (two tonalities featured for almost 20 years. He decided instead to every repetition grow more frantic and simultaneously) – anticipating the use of pursue a career in insurance, eventually exasperated at their inability to do so. →

33 Perfectly tuned insurance

CONCERT DATE: A celebration of 20th century composers – Rattle: Roots & Origins – including Charles Ives, will be performed by the London Symphony Orchestra at the Barbican next summer (details below) Picture: Mark Allen

experience in life insurance sales. In 1921, would spend the rest of his life revising and “Central Park in the Dark” uses a similar hundreds of copies of both the Sonata collage technique as its method of promoting his music and the work of his and an accompanying essay were sent to composition. Ives explained: less financially successful peers. influential figures in the arts and academia. “This piece purports to be a picture-in-sounds Although he was awarded a Pulitzer of the sounds of nature and of happenings that It was his first concerted effort to promote Prize in 1946 (donating the prize money men would hear some 30 or so years ago when his music to the public since 1902, and to other musical causes), since his death sitting on a bench in Central Park on a hot it met mixed reviews, largely ignored by in 1954 acclaim for his work has grown. summer night.” most, but earning the admiration of a One can hardly imagine the frustration of dedicated minority who were intrigued by composing works destined to lie unheard The work begins with a long, tranquil the work’s ambition and adventurousness for decades, and yet surely few composers string chorale juxtaposed with familiar (one passage in particular requires the were in possession of a similar vision of the sounding melodies in the woodwinds, employment of a 143⁄4-inch piece of potential of contemporary music to convey and then full quotations of popular songs wood). the human experience. of the day: “Hello! Ma Baby!” by a piano, Perfectly tuned insurance and “Washington Street March” by the The work is hardly a demonstration Indeed, Igor Stravinsky remarked: brass section, eventually overwhelming of cheap tricks, it requires mammoth “Charles Ives devoured the cake of virtuosity on the part of the performer, the string chorale in total cacophony. contemporary music before the rest of us and is a serious attempt to grapple with “We are the music makers, and Neither of the aforementioned works were even had a seat at the same table.” premiered until 1946 — 40 years after Ives the work of 19th century transcendental wrote them. philosophers with each movement titled Ives is now recognised as an important we are the dreamers of dreams” after a famous work of philosophers and figure in 20th century music, and that Ives’ works often featured the authors associated with the transcendental he was able to produce works of such - Arthur O’Shaughnessy aforementioned synthesis and philosophy movement, including Ralph magnitude alongside his considerably busy juxtaposition of high art music – radical Waldo Emerson and Henry David career stands as a remarkable tribute to the composition techniques, influenced by Thoreau. tenacity of the creative spirit. the Western Classical tradition – and the vernacular – hymns, spirituals, folk songs In addition to Ives’ own virtuosic piano and popular tunes of the day. Similar writing, the work is littered with musical Our Music policy has been carefully designed to allow you to make music and to Gustav Mahler, Ives’ ideas were not quotations of everything from popular London Symphony dream your dreams with complete peace of mind. Lark Music is focused on conceived as abstract music ideas but songs of the day to fragments of Beethoven Orchestra diary date protecting your possessions and supporting the musical arts. sought to draw from his lived experience works. It was not premiered in its entirety Rattle: Roots & Origins and the experience of his countrymen and until 1938, but remains one of Ives’ women. Indeed, in hearing Ives’ works, in most celebrated works and has found a Saturday, June 6 particular Symphony No. 4, one is drawn special place in the repertoire of many 7.30pm-9.30pm to reflect on Mahler’s idea that “The contemporary pianists. Barbican Hall, London Symphony must be like the world; it must Charles Ives did not achieve widespread includes Charles Ives’ embrace everything”. appreciation until late in his life. He retired Decoration Day. from insurance in 1930, but had ceased Conductor Sir Simon Rattle The Concord Sonata was first unveiled in T: 020 7543 2800 a manner undoubtedly influenced by Ives’ to write any new music since 1926, and www.larkmusic.com

34 Lark Music is a trading name of Aston Lark Limited Registered in England and Wales No: 02831010. Registered office: Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London, EC3N 1DY Aston Lark Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Perfectly tuned insurance “We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams” - Arthur O’Shaughnessy

Our Music policy has been carefully designed to allow you to make music and dream your dreams with complete peace of mind. Lark Music is focused on protecting your possessions and supporting the musical arts.

T: 020 7543 2800 www.larkmusic.com