Spotlight on Arts – Leicester International Music Festival
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In this edition of Spotlight on Arts we talk with Nicholas Daniel OBE, one of Britain’s most celebrated oboists and the long-standing Creative Director of the Leicester International Music Festival. Nicholas shares his story of how he first came to prominence as BBC Young Musician of the Year at just 18, and how his passion for performance, teaching, and commissioning new works has shaped a career that now influences audiences worldwide.
The conversation explores the themes and programme of the 2025 Leicester International Music Festival, which takes place from 17–20 September. Concerts will be held at Hansom Hall and the Attenborough Arts Centre, featuring music by Schubert, Ravel, and Emma-Ruth Richards, alongside a family concert designed to open up the joy of classical music to younger listeners. Highlights include the world premiere of Emma-Ruth Richards’ new piece Still Life, created in collaboration with visual artist Nic Chalmers.
Throughout the interview Nicholas reflects on why live music matters. He explains how programming is like creating a carefully balanced meal, mixing familiar works with new pieces that challenge and inspire. He speaks candidly about the responsibility of curating music that resonates with audiences, while also expanding the repertoire for the oboe through hundreds of new commissions. His belief is that great music, whether centuries old or newly written, has the power to speak to everyone if given the chance to be heard.
The discussion also touches on Leicester’s distinctive cultural setting, the importance of community engagement, and how music connects across global perspectives. Nicholas stresses the need to make classical music inclusive and accessible, with LIMF offering not just concerts but also outreach in schools, retirement communities, and youth groups. For him, the festival is more than a series of performances: it is a shared experience rooted in connection, creativity, and joy.
The Spotlight on Arts podcast is available now. To find out more about the Leicester International Music Festival and book tickets, visit leicesterinternationalmusicfestival.org.uk.
