Vladimir Ashkenazy on his life in conducting

Before he takes to the stage at Birmingham Symphony Hall, the great Vladimir Ashkenazy spoke to Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall about his life in conducting and the joys of Holst.

He might have been about to lead the Philharmonia in a performance of Holst's The Planets, but conductor and pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy managed to find time for a fascinating interview with Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall.



In this frank and illuminating chat, they touch on Ashkenazy's illustrious career at the podium, and how his relationship with the Philharmonia has grown in recent years. Ashkenazy also attempts to convey exactly what makes a great conductor.