Tea with Netty

Glyndebourne’s executive chair Gus Christie is joined by Netty at the opera house for a cuppa and chat. Gus guides us through the rich history of Glyndebourne Opera House, highlighting how its architectural design has evolved through the vision of many creative minds. Beyond the renowned summer festivals, Glyndebourne hosts a vibrant range of educational and community events year-round. Fascinatingly, we also learn how making a wildlife documentary shares surprising similarities with producing an opera. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Baritone Huw Montague Rendall, who is currently starring as Count Almaviva in Glyndebourne's production of Le nozze di Figaro, joins Netty for tea in the latest episode. They chat about the world of stage performance, sharing anecdotes that cover everything from character exploration to elaborate hairstyles and the art of navigating high-heeled shoes. Huw Montague Rendall discusses the life of a singer, highlighting both the challenges and the rewarding aspects of the profession. Drawing on the unique advantage of being nurtured by his parents, who are also singers, he reveals how their guidance laid the foundation for his career. Catch him on stage in our upcoming BBC Proms performance! -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Our latest episode features OAE Co-principal Viola John Crockatt conversing with Netty in the grounds of Glyndebourne. They discuss travels, obsessions, and the three elements that complete the cycle of music. John Crockatt shares his life and interests alongside playing the viola, with his adventures in India and Jerusalem, which sparked his exploration of ethnomusicology. In this insightful conversation, he reflects on the profound ways of understanding people and how we perceive the world through music, which we can all learn from! -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Baritone Christopher Purves joins Netty for tea and a chat backstage of Glyndebourne Opera House in this episode. Currently performing the title role of Saul with the OAE, Christopher shares his interests in theatre and the many discoveries he has made throughout his singing journey. Christopher explores his singing approach for his character, Saul, and shares how he began his journey in opera while also venturing into other musical genres. He emphasises the importance of communication, emotional expression, active listening, and the distinctions between using one's singing voice and speaking voice. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Flute player Neil McLaren joins Netty for a tea and chat in the latest episode. Having served as OAE’s second flute for nearly 40 years, Neil shares how he became interested in playing the baroque flute and recounts intriguing stories about his early encounters with music. He also discusses other pursuits inspired by his life experiences. Neil takes us back to his early life, before he began playing the flute. When he's not playing music, you can find him crafting jewellery in his workshop in Lewes. Some of his pieces are featured in the Glyndebourne shop as well as being worn by our guest artists. In addition to his musical talents, Neil is also a qualified counsellor, and he shares the journey of how he became one, along with the training process he undertook. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Soprano Anna Dennis joins Netty for tea and a chat in the latest episode. While backstage at the St Matthew Passion concert in London, Anna shared her insights on the various spectrums of music, including baroque and modern styles. She also gives us a glimpse into her love of thrifting! Anna Dennis shares her experiences of discovering the potential of her charismatic voice through others, her perspective on various musical styles, and her upbringing in a household filled with music enthusiasts. Anna also expresses the relatable feeling of returning home after being away on tour— there's truly nothing like it! -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

OAE horn player Martin Lawrence joins Netty in the latest episode for tea and chats. As they dive into lively conversation, Martin sheds light on the fascinating distinctions between natural and valve horns, performance anxiety discoveries and unveils his intriguing passion for mushroom foraging. Martin Lawrence shares his musical journey, providing insight into the history of the horn. He discusses his discoveries in specialising in helping people overcome performance anxiety and how this can apply to various scenarios, including playing with the OAE. Martin also reminisces about his 'crowd surfing' dreams with his impressive DIY hosepipe horn at a Night Shift event. Tune in for a delightful blend of music, personal stories and a dash of nature's wonders! -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston joins Netty for tea and a chat in the latest episode. She discusses her unique voice and the discoveries she's made through singing different repertoire as well as learning to sing backwards! Helen is a member of the first cohort of our Rising Stars of the Enlightenment alumni (2017-2019). She shares her journey in the scheme that led to the creation of the unforgettable video of Dido's Lament, inspired by Coldplay. Beyond her singing talent, Helen is committed to various initiatives that strive to make music accessible to everyone and she vividly expresses how vital this mission is to her. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

In the first episode of 2025, conductor Dinis Sousa joins Netty for a cuppa and a chat in London before he embarks on his touring adventures. Currently Principal Conductor of the Royal Northern Sinfonia, Dinis has a fascinating journey that took him from filmmaker to pianist and finally conductor. His story is inspiring and demonstrates the rewards of pursuing your dreams. Dinis also shares his excitement about joining us as guest artist in June at the Southbank Centre, where he will conduct Elgar's Enigma Variations for the first time. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

OAE violin leader Kati Debretzeni joins Netty for a cuppa and a chat while on tour. Kati tells fascinating and humorous stories from her family history to stepping into the musical universe. Come along for the ride where each stop reveals her delightful discoveries and the joy of following one's passion! Kati has been one of the OAE's leaders since 2008. With a wealth of knowledge passed down from her mentors, she not only directs orchestras but also nurtures the next generation of musicians and there's a lot we can learn from her experiences in the world of Baroque music. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

Conductor Antonello Manacorda who conducted the OAE’s Prom this summer joins Netty for tea and a chat. This episode is a treasure trove of fascinating conversations exploring the intricate dynamic between the orchestra and the conductor, along with stories about encounters with heroic older-generation conductors and insightful findings about the art of breathing in music. Antonello, who has Italian and French roots, expresses his passion for learning languages to connect more deeply with music. He discusses the benefits of his experience as a concertmaster and his transition to conducting. Antonello also shares interesting observations about the development of bowing techniques and sheds light on the joys and challenges of being a conductor. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa

OAE's beloved double bassist and current Chair of the Players' Artistic Committee Cecelia Bruggemeyer joins Netty in the latest episode. They discuss the early days of the formation of the OAE, balancing playing in various orchestras, touring and driving around. Cecelia shares stories from her very first double bass encounter to playing professionally. With an interest in education and mentoring, we get a glimpse of her involvement in OAE TOTS workshops. She also shares her insights from training in coaching and understanding how people process things which proves valuable in her role as chair of PAC. -- Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger…), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she ‘spills the tea’ on the side of classical music you don’t normally hear. Available as Apple podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, TuneIn+Alexa