The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra is coming to Oxford this year - but it's sold out. It's coming to London next year - but it's sold out. However , for a limited period you can visit it for a free concert in its Digital Concert Hall by following this link and registering - try it, it's terrific!

http://www.berliner-philharmoniker.de/en/

The quote in the blog title was spoken by, err, me, when, as a pig-tailed, wide-eyed second-study violinist, I was asked by my violin teacher what I wanted to do musically in the distant future. He didn't laugh, smirk, smile indulgently, pooh-pooh the idea or point out the obstacles. He simply went over to his bookshelves, selected two slim volumes, handed them to me and told me to go away and read them. They were books on conducting - by Henry Wood, and John Barbirolli.

As it happens, I did end up doing some choral conducting at one point, although, so far, the Berlin Phil has managed to get along without me. I mention this only as a tribute to a wonderful teacher, musician and born animateur, who took a serious answer at face value and used it as an opportunity for learning. If Daniel Barenboim is indisposed in Oxford, just give me a call. :)