Wednesdays from 1 – 2pm with Simon Moore.
Each week presenter Simon Moore spends an hour in conversation with one of the greatest musicians, singers, composers, conductors, actors, writers and directors, along with up-and-comers and others who influence our arts landscape.
Find more episodes on the 2MBS App, in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your podcast app of choice. Find a list of 2026 episodes of In Conversation here. Find 2025 episodes of In Conversation here. Find The Best of In Conversation from earlier years here.
Previous episode: Andrew Bevis
17 June 2026 – Lawrence Power
Internationally acclaimed violist Lawrence Power joins In Conversation while in Sydney to guest direct the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s Isles of Light program, a musical journey through the British Isles that traces a line from Renaissance composers such as Tallis through to contemporary voices including Jonny Greenwood and Kate Bush. Lawrence reflects on the distinctive character of British music, the influence of Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, and his passion for presenting classical music in fresh and imaginative ways. He also discusses the premiere of a new work by fellow violist and composer Garth Knox, and why curiosity and collaboration remain at the heart of his musical life.
Lawrence shares the remarkable story of how he came to the viola by chance after missing out on a violin at school, and why the instrument’s unique voice continues to fascinate him. He recalls his formative years at London’s Junior Guildhall, the musical discoveries that shaped him, and the experiences that led him away from a potential orchestral career and towards chamber music, solo performance, and the commissioning of new works through his ambitious Viola Commissioning Circle. It aims to create ten new viola concertos before 2030, helping to expand the instrument’s repertoire and bring new voices to audiences around the world. Throughout, Lawrence reveals himself as a musician dedicated to exploration, connection and the boundless possibilities of music.
Lawrence Power guest directs the Australian Chamber Orchestra for Isles of Light until June 21.
