BBC Music December 2024

Continuing with our American theme, Tom Stewart meets Anthony McGill, principal clarinettist of the New York Philharmonic and a leading advocate for greater diversity in the classical world. And, as President Trump prepares to be sworn in for the second time on the frosty steps of Washington’s Capitol, Terry Blain looks back at the music performed during past presidential inaugurations – and what those works can tell us about the ambitions and priorities for that politician’s tenure (who could forget the inspiring sight of Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Gabriela Montero – and one Anthony McGill – performing at the inauguration of President Obama in 2009?)

If music can be used to inspire a nation, so too can it satirically subvert political and cultural movements, as Stephen Johnson explores in his history of satire in music. From Schumann’s veiled mockery of superficial public tastes to Shostakovich’s brave defiance of Stalin’s dark regime, there’s more in common between music and politics than first meets the eye... and ear.