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 or conductors, 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.

11 June – Eamonn Dougan


Associate Conductor of The Sixteen, Eamonn Dougan has built a reputation as an inspirational communicator with a wide-ranging and adventurous repertoire. In addition to his work with The Sixteen, he is the founding director of Britten Sinfonia Voices and Music Director of the Thomas Tallis Society. The website Bachtrack perhaps sums him up best, praising his “remarkable knack for finding the perfect balance between allowing the emotion time to speak, while keeping everything moving.”

In this conversation, Eamonn shares his passion for unearthing overlooked musical treasures, including the rich and rarely heard repertoire of the Polish Baroque. He speaks warmly about his educational work with emerging artists, advocating for ensemble singing as a distinct discipline deserving serious attention. We also discuss the origins and impact of his podcast Choral Chihuahua, created during the pandemic and now in its eighth season, as well as his approach to recording, and the lasting emotional power that music holds in his life.

Eamonn Dougan is currently in Australia guest directing The Song Company for Love’s Four Seasons, a compelling program exploring the cycle of human relationships through madrigals by Monteverdi, Gesualdo, and Barbara Strozzi, alongside modern works. At the time of publication, performances have already taken place in Newcastle, Wollongong and Canberra, with further concerts at the Utzon Room of the Sydney Opera House on Saturday 14 June and at the Blackheath Uniting Church on Sunday 15 June. 

4 June – Luke Spicer


One of Australia’s foremost young conductors, Luke Spicer has appeared as guest conductor of the Tasmanian, Queensland, and Canberra Symphony Orchestras, and as a conductor and music director with Opera Australia. He’s also been guest Assistant Conductor at the Bruckner Orchestra Linz, the Saarländisches Staatstheater of Saarbrücken, and with the Sydney Symphony, working with both Simone Young and Vladimir Ashkenazy.

In this conversation, Luke reflects on his journey from violinist to violist to conductor, influenced by formative experiences including a pivotal moment in Bathurst. He recounts studying under demanding mentors like Gianluigi Gelmetti, and his early performing experiences, including touring with Opera Australia. 

Luke Spicer conducts musicians of the Guizhou Chinese Orchestra and the Australia Orchestra for Folk Reimagined: East in Symphony in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House on Monday 7 July and at the Melbourne Recital Centre on Wednesday 9 July. 

28 May – Susannah Lawergren


Susannah Lawergren has developed a reputation as a beautifully clear soprano with “stunning vocal expression” and “compelling stagecraft”. A principal artist with both The Song Company and Bach Akadamie Australia, she’s also performed with our other top ensembles, from Sydney Chamber Choir and Opera Australia, to Cantillation and Ensemble Offspring, plus has appeared at the Sydney and Adelaide Festivals and the Canberra International Music Festival.

In this conversation, Susannah speaks candidly about her musical upbringing and studies, and reflects on the unique qualities of singing in different languages, explaining how language profoundly shapes vocal expression. We hear about how a beer at a pub serendipitously led to her involvement with Bach Akadamie Australia, plus about her career-making role with The Song Company. She also delves into the technical and emotional challenges of singing early and contemporary music, the importance of vocal pedagogy, and how her teaching approach emphasises sustainable practice and motor learning. 

Susannah Lawergren performs The Class of 85 with Bach Akadamie Australia 30 May to 1 June, followed by Love’s Four Seasons with The Song Company from 6 to 15 June. 

21 May – Sally-Anne Russell


One of Australia’s finest mezzo-sopranos, multi-award-winner Sally-Anne Russell has a career spanning over 80 operatic roles and performances on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. She is celebrated for her rich, expressive voice and captivating artistry. From Baroque masterpieces to contemporary works, Sally-Anne has enchanted audiences across the globe. She’s worked with luminaries from Bryn Terfel and Sumi Jo, to our own Richard Gill and Simone Young, and appears on over 40 albums and DVDs. 

Sally-Anne recounts her early beginnings in Adelaide, including her shift from aspiring dancer to opera singer, and her unusually young entry into the State Opera of South Australia Chorus. She discusses her time performing in The Phantom of the Opera, her return to classical singing, and her subsequent international experiences, including scholarships and working with major figures like Bryn Terfel and Pavarotti. The conversation explores her affinity for Baroque repertoire, particularly Bach and Handel, her work as co-artistic director of the Albury Chamber Music Festival, and the unpredictability and resilience required in a performer’s life.

Sally-Anne Russell performs Warm Winter Songs at the Yallamundi Room of the Sydney Opera House on Wednesday, June 11. A fundraiser by the Sydney Opera House Ladies Committee, their events support the Arts Assist & Access Programs of the Opera House so children from under-resourced schools, or with a disability, can attend a performance at the House, which is often their first such experience. 

14 May – Michael Ball OBE


A man who can only be described as musical theatre royalty, Michael Ball made his West End debut in 1985 as Marius in the original cast of Les Misérables. He went on to play the lead role of Alex Dillingham in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Aspects of Love in both the West End and on Broadway. He’s appeared in a long string of musicals covering all parts of the repertoire – The Phantom of the OperaSweeney ToddChitty Chitty Bang BangChessSunset Boulevard, even going full drag for Hairspray. He’s recorded 27 albums, including 6 number 1s, not including the 12 cast recordings he’s a part of. He’s twice won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical, and in 2015 was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services to musical theatre.

In this lively and heartfelt interview, Michael reflects on his illustrious career, from his breakout role as Marius to his current portrayal of Javert in the Australian arena tour. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about the show’s early struggles, the camaraderie among its global cast, and how the evolving production has stayed relevant over four decades. Michael opens up about personal challenges, including a battle with stage-related anxiety early in his career, and how he overcame it with support from Cameron Mackintosh and others. We also hear about his success as a solo artist, his collaborations with Alfie Boe, and his ventures into songwriting. With warmth and humour, he discusses some of his memorable roles, his thoughts on fame and creative control, and the deep satisfaction he finds in all aspects of his work. 

7 May – Ali McGregor


Described as a renegade opera star and cabaret artist, Ali McGregor began her career as a principal soprano with Opera Australia before running away to the circus to become an award winning cabaret performer. Nominated for an ARIA in 2014, she went on to win both a Green Room and Helpmann Award in 2015. She’s one of the most in-demand performers on the international festival circuit and is a former artist director of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, performing at venues from Glastonbury and Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House.

She’s currently collaborating with the Signum Saxophone Quartet and Musica Viva for Hollywood Songbook, a concert tour exploring the turbulent first half of the 20th Century through the music of emigres such as Kurt Weill and Hanns Eisler, with performances until 17 May.

In this interview, Ali traces her journey from performing at Opera Australia to creating innovative, genre-blending shows. She discusses the artistic freedom and creative risks involved in moving from traditional opera to the cabaret scene, and shares insights into her creative process plus her role as an artistic director. The conversation also touches on her efforts to make classical music more accessible and engaging to broader audiences through inventive programming and theatrical flair. 

30 April – Gottfried von der Goltz


Gottfried von der Goltz is a violinist, conductor, and artist of extraordinary insight. As the director of the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern sound of historically informed performance, breathing new life into Baroque and Classical music with a blend of scholarship and sheer musical brilliance. Whether wielding the bow as a soloist or guiding an ensemble from the podium, his interpretations are known for their energy, elegance, and deep expressiveness.

In this conversation, Gottfried discusses his musical upbringing, his leadership of the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra, and his early involvement in historically informed performance. He reflects on his musical family background, his studies at Juilliard, and his passion for exploring Baroque and Classical repertoire with authenticity, including playing on period instruments and embracing improvisation and varied ornamentation. He shares insights into the different national styles of Baroque music and talks about the challenges and creativity involved in recording historically informed interpretations.

This interview was kindly arranged by the Snow Concert Hall in Canberra.  

23 April – Lerida Delbridge


As Assistant Concertmaster of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, violinist Lerida Delbridge is a vital cornerstone of our classical music scene. She also has a passion for chamber music as a founding member of the Tinalley String Quartet, which has performed internationally and been the recipient of numerous awards. She has recently taken on the role of artistic director of Hunters Hill Music, which brings outstanding chamber music closer to audiences.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Lerida discusses her multifaceted musical life, reflecting on her early musical influences, international study experiences, and the challenges and triumphs of building a career in chamber music from Australia. Delbridge also speaks about the importance of community music-making, her cherished historic violin, and the joy and insight she gains from teaching.

The next Hunters Hill Music – Swirl, Swoop & Dance – is on at 2pm on Sunday 4 May at the Hunters Hill Town Hall. Visit huntershillmusic.com.au for further details about this and future concerts.  

16 April – Tom Gleisner AO


It’s difficult to categorise Tom Gleisner, because he’s done it all. He’s a presenter, producer, director, writer, and actor, and even then that only scratches the surface of his talents. We first became aware of Tom thanks to The D Generation back in 1986, and as a part of Working Dog Productions he’s created comedy classics like Frontline and Utopia, panel shows like Have You Been Paying Attention and The Panel, and feature films such as the critically acclaimed The Castle and The Dish. But it’s musical theatre which Tom has most recently turned his hand to, writing the book and lyrics for Bloom, a new Australian musical set in an aged care facility.

Tom reflects on his inspiration for the show, and his desire to treat older characters with dignity and complexity. He also shares insights into the collaborative process of developing the musical. He also discusses his multifaceted career, from his early days with The D-Generation and Frontline, the success of The Panel, to his more recent work in television satire with The Hollowmen and Utopia. He talks about making The Castle on a shoestring and the greater complexities and budget requirements for The Dish. Beyond entertainment, Gleisner speaks passionately about his involvement in charity work, including co-founding an autism support organisation and chairing a cancer charity. 

Bloom plays at the Roslyn Packer Theatre until May 11.  

9 April – Zubin Kanga


Zubin Kanga is a pianist, composer and technologist, who has been at the forefront of curating and creating interdisciplinary musical programs exploring what it means to be a performer in the 21st Century. His multi year project, Cyborg Solosits, is unlocking new possibilities in music making through interactions with motion and biosensors, new hybrid instruments, interactive visuals, and AI.

In this conversation, Zubin provides a fascinating glimpse into this project, where he is collaborating with dozens of composers around the world in an exciting exploration of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead in how we create, perform, and enjoy music.

Zubin also provides insights into the world premieres he will be performing, which includes one of his own compositions, with Ensemble Offspring to launch their 30th anniversary season, for Lumen Machine, on April 12 at The Neilson and April 13 at the Newcastle Conservatorium.  

2 April – Reginald Mobley


Globally renowned for his interpretation of baroque, classical and modern repertoire, counter-tenor Reginald Mobley is best known for his performances of JS Bach and Purcell. He’s sung with the Monteverdi Choir, the English Baroque Soloists, the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Early Music Vancouver, among many others, as well as at the coronation of King Charles III. He’s also an advocate for diversity in music and its programming, and has become the first ever Programming Consultant for the Handel and Haydn Society in his home town of Boston. He’s come to Australia for a national tour with Bach Akadamie Australia.

Reggie reflects on the significance of J.S. Bach in his musical journey. He shares insights into his early years, the influences that shaped his distinctive vocal career, and his passion for bringing Baroque music to life. The conversation also touches on diversity in classical music, his collaborations with leading ensembles, and his passion for blending musical traditions. With a mix of humour and thoughtful reflection, Reggie offers a fascinating look into his artistry.

Reginald Mobley performs with Bach Akadamie Australia for The Countertenor – Bach’s Holy Spirit at venues around Australia until April 25. 

26 March – Kathryn Selby AM


A pianist dubbed both as a “formidable talent” as well as “Australia’s pre-eminent chamber music pianist”, Kathryn Selby has performed with orchestras and chamber groups around the world, most extensively throughout Australia and North America. For nearly 15 years she was the anchor of the Macquarie Trio, which made many recordings, several of which were nominated for the Best Classical Album ARIA award. She’s perhaps most familiar to us now as the name behind the popular series of chamber music recitals, Selby and Friends which the Sydney Morning Herald has described as “chamber music at its best”.

Kathy talks about how her passion for the piano led her to study in the United States from a very young age. We hear about the founding of Selby & Friends, the challenges of making a career as a pianist, and the rise and fall of the Macquarie Trio. She also touches on her personal struggle of her early move to the States, plus stories about the many great musicians who have influenced her. 

Selby & Friends next concert series, Joyeux Anniversaire, is on around the country from the 6th to the 13th of April.

19 March – Peter Gregson


The New Yorker described cellist and composer Peter Gregson as “working at the forefront of the new music scene”. As a cellist, he has performed all over the world, from The Royal Albert Hall to Capitol Studios in Hollywood. He has composed music for award-winning TV shows and movies, including the much loved Bridgerton from Netflix, and The New Pope from HBO. He also crosses into the pop industry, having featured as both cello soloist and conductor for Ed Sheeran on his record-breaking 2017 album, Divide.

In this interview, Peter Gregson discusses his latest work, Everything We Hear Comes First from Silence, written for the Omega Ensemble. We hear about his inspiration from composers like Steve Reich and Philip Glass, and his approach to blending acoustic instruments with electronics. He shares insights into his reimagining of the Bach Cello Suites, and how a chance encounter with Alan Rickman led him to compose for film and television.

The Omega Ensemble performs the world premiere of Peter’s new work, Everything We Here Comes First From Silence, as part of their upcoming tour La Musica Notturna from March 24-27.

12 March – Adrian Tamburini

Bass/baritone Adrian Tamburini has enjoyed a long and varied career in opera, musical theatre, and also as a director and producer. He has won two Green Room Awards, the second for his performance in Wagner’s Götterdämmerung, and has also been the winner of Australia’s most prestigious singing award, the Australian Opera Award. His voice features on international recordings, in cinema, and on radio and TV. He’s appeared in a raft of productions for opera companies around the country. On top of that, he’s a music educator and also a champion of new Australian works.

Adrian takes us through the inspirations and challenges he has had throughout his singing career, from boy soprano to the master of the underworld. He shares his recently found passion for music education and provides some insights on what it’s like moving from the world of traditional opera to a large scale commercial musical.

Adrian Tamburini plays Hades in Hadestown, playing now at Sydney’s Theatre Royal until 26 April before heading to Melbourne.



5 March – Bobby Fox


Bobby Fox is best known for originating the role of Frankie Valli in the Australian production of Jersey Boys. He has appeared in many other musical theatre productions, including HairsprayMamma MiaSpamalotOklahoma and Sweet Charity, amongst others, and he received a Helpmann nomination for his role in Stephen Sondheim’s Assassins which played at both the Hayes and the Sydney Opera House. He also has a shuffle in his shoes, having been a part of Riverdance as well as a four time World Irish Dance Champion. He has released the album The Fantastic Mr Fox.

Bobby takes us through his childhood in regional Ireland, learning to dance as soon as he could walk, and being part of Riverdance from just 15 years of age. His journey ultimately takes him to Australia where he has lived for over 20 years as a successful musical theatre performer.

Bobby Fox appears in Guys and Dolls, this year’s Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour thanks to Opera Australia, from 21 March to 20 April. 


26 February – Eddie Perfect


One of Australia’s most eclectic, respected and prolific artists, Eddie Perfect has received multiple awards and nominations for the different strands of his work. He won the 2009 Helpmann Award for Best New Australian Work for Shane Warne: The Musical, and received a Tony nomination for Best Original Score for his work as composer/lyricist of Beetlejuice. He’s back on stage to star in Opera Australia’s new production of Leonard Bernstein’s Candide, and from this May will once again perform his own music as he takes on the title role in the Australian run of Beetlejuice.

In this conversation, Eddie takes a deep dive into the development and creation of a successful Broadway show, charting his initial struggle to get his foot in the door, the long process of writing, workshopping, and re-writing, to coping with the initial out-of-town and Broadway premieres to an initially lacklustre critical response. The show went on to receive eight Tony nominations. He also talks about his formative years as a performer that eventually led to creating Shane Warne: The Musical.

This episode of In Conversation contains additional content to the broadcast edition.


19 February – Margarita Balanas


Latvian cellist and conductor Margarita Balanas has played at venues around the world, from Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House. She’s performed as soloist with the Munich Philharmonic and the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra among many others, and conducted orchestras including the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich and the Baltic Sea Philharmonic, and is the founder and music director of the ANONIMI orchestra and charity.

As children, Margarita and her siblings raised money by busking in order to afford the travel and entry fees to be able to play in competitions. Her incredible tenacity and motivation took her to London and the Purcell School, then the Royal Academy of Music, and lead her to becoming assistant conductor to Paavo Järvi. Margarita shares this incredible journey with us, as well as a number of pieces she has performed with her sister, violinist Kristine Balanas, as part of that journey.




12 February – Stephen Johnson


A British composer, writer and broadcaster, Stephen Johnson has a long and eclectic career. His book titles include Discover Music of the Classical EraThe Eighth: Mahler and the World in 1910, and How Shostakovich Changed My Mind, not to mention his curation of a book of ghost stories. His compositions include a String Quartet for the Brodsky Quartet, andBehemoth Dances for the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra. He was also a long-time broadcaster with the BBC’s classical radio channel, Radio 3, particularly for his acclaimed program Discovering Music. He’s been called “The authoritative British voice of classical music”.

This conversation dips into Stephen’s vast musical knowledge, and he very candidly talks about music’s role in mental health and his own struggles with illness. He also shares some of his experiences at the BBC and the catalysts for some of his writing.

This program was recorded at the 2024 Australian Festival of Chamber Music. The 2025 Festival runs from 25 July to 2 August in Townsville. For more information, and to become a Friend of the Festival which entitles you to priority tickets, visit afcm.com.au



05 February – Alexander Boyd


A celebrated pianist, Alexander Boyd is appreciated for his sensitivity and the integrity of his interpretations. He made his concerto debut at the age of just 11 with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. He’s since performed at London’s Wigmore Hall and St Martins in the Fields, as well as throughout Europe, the US and Australia. He’s also a composer, having written music for three films.

He has a pair of new albums out in March, one of Chopin’s Ballades and other works, the other an album of Fandangos. Alexander talks about the development of these albums and also gives some lovely insights into the life of a professional pianist. 



29 January – Amy Manford


Soprano, actress and producer Amy Manford has delighted audiences young and old with her gorgeous voice and magnetic stage presence. Audiences will recall her highly acclaimed run as Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera in 2022, having already played the role in the West End. She’s performed with Andrea Bocelli and for the British Royal Family. Amy is also quite the arts entrepreneur, having co-founded MM Creative Productions. Their production, Disney in Concert, is back by popular demand, returning to the Sydney Opera House with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia Choirs from 12 to 15 March, and then with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra at Hamer Hall from 21-23 March.

Amy spent her early childhood not as a singer, but as a gymnast, until a knee injury changed her trajectory. Her natural talents took her to the Royal College of Music in London, and she hasn’t looked back since. Amy shares the challenges and opportunities of running a production company, and being part of one of the world’s most famous entertainment brands. She introduces some of her own recordings, including one of her own compositions.



22 January – Cédric Tiberghien


French pianist applauded for his versatility and wide-ranging repertoire, Cédric Tiberghien has an openness to explore innovative concert formats and dynamic chamber music partnerships. He’s recorded over 20 solo albums and over 15 collaborative ones, has played concerts and recitals in all parts of the world, with the Berlin Philharmonic, Orchestre National de France, the London Philharmonic, the Sydney Symphony, among many others.

He was fascinated by a grand piano when he was 2 years old, and started lessons as soon as he was able. In this conversation, Cédric takes us through his approach to music and performance with joy and excitement, and his musical selections demonstrate the full breadth of his approach to his craft.

Cédric Tiberghien performs The Cage Project with Musica Viva at the Sydney Festival on 23-25 January, before heading to Canberra and Melbourne.



15 January – Daniel Smith


In Conversation begins a year of new programs with a conductor whose passion for music is irrepressible. Australian born Daniel Smith is now based in Italy, and proudly bears the Italian honour of Australian Cultural Ambassador. Following his highly successful debut with The Mariinsky Orchestra, Daniel has guest conducted the Czech Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Warsaw National Philharmonic, Frankfurt Radio Symphony, New Japan Philharmonic, amongst many others.

Daniel shares stories of his hard-fought career milestones, from cornering maestro Gianluigi Gelmetti in a Sydney Opera House lift to beg him to take him on as a student, to his breakthrough being the only conductor to be awarded Laureate in four of the most prestigious international conducting competitions in a single year. He speaks with great passion on his plans to share culture with as broad an audience as possible.

Daniel Smith conducts The Barber of Seville for Opera Australia, which plays at the Sydney Opera House until 28 February.



8 January – Derek Parker (repeat)


The 2MBS Fine Music Sydney family were saddened to learn of the passing of Derek Parker, after a short illness, at the age of 92, on January 2, 2025. Derek had been an active volunteer with us for nearly 20 years. For over 15 years he was a well-loved presenter, and upon his return to the UK in early 2021, he continued to program, right up to the very end.

But his career in radio was far longer than that. He was a figure in broadcasting on radio and television for a staggering 70 years, plus he wrote over 50 books covering topics as diverse as the golden years of radio and erotic fiction.

Just prior to when he and his wife Julia returned to the UK in April 2021, Derek was a guest on In Conversation, to share some of the wonderful stories from his incredible life and career.