Musically speaking is a new series of live bi-weekly interviews hosted by NAC Orchestra Music Director Alexander Shelley in which he speaks to stars of the Classical Music world from their homes.

In this first episode he speaks to violin virtuoso James Ehnes, incoming Artist in Residence of the National Arts Centre Orchestra.

Alexander joins psychologist Dr Steve Olivas for his weekly podcast: The Commute

Released 27th April 2020

Alexander introduces the Marriage of Figaro, which he will be leading in concert with Canada's National Arts Centre Orchestra.

Alexander presents his latest Cadogan Hall series with the Royal Philharmonic: Composer360°

A documentary by the WDR of Alexander Shelley's tour of South Africa with the National Youth Orchestra of Germany in August 2019. German language.

Alexander is a guest on Farnam Street's 'The Knowledge Project' (Episode 9).

In discussion with Shane Parrish Alexander discusses:

- How he prepares himself before stepping on stage (and how his process changes depending on the music the orchestra will play)
- Why live performances create a powerful and almost spiritual experience
- The delicate relationship between audience, orchestra, and conductor and how balancing them is like a beautiful dance
- How to manage the egos, personalities, and different playing styles of 80 world-class musicians on any given night
- How the structures of music have changed over the years, and how our ears still recognize shapes and patterns in any piece from any era
- Why Beethoven’s 5th Symphony is so popular (Alexander breaks down the DNA of the song and how all music has its own unique “cell structure.” This alone is worth listening to the interview)
- Why the sciences and the arts are inseparable and should be studied, practiced and revered hand in hand
- How familiarity with music history allows you to appreciate and enjoy any piece of music (even current pop hits) at a whole new level

Alexander Shelley works with Josh Bullen on excerpts from Beethoven's 5th Symphony (2018)

On November 9th 2018 the National Arts Centre Orchestra performed Britten's War Requiem alongside the National Youth Orchestra of Germany. Alexander introduces the epic work.

As part of the National Arts Centre Orchestra's Beethoven FOCUS Festival in 2018, Alexander talked about some key aspects of Beethoven's life. Part 4 of 4

As part of the National Arts Centre Orchestra's Beethoven FOCUS Festival in 2018, Alexander talked about some key aspects of Beethoven's life. Part 3 of 4

As part of the National Arts Centre Orchestra's Beethoven FOCUS Festival in 2018, Alexander talked about some key aspects of Beethoven's life. Part 2 of 4

As part of the National Arts Centre Orchestra's Beethoven FOCUS Festival in 2018, Alexander talked about some key aspects of Beethoven's life. Part 1 of 4