Our host, Elizabeth Burke along with our panellists Dr Chris Hilton and Dr Lucy Walker explores how Britten fared as a young musician, diving into his earliest works and accounts of his experiences. We also hear from the Paddington Trio, an ensemble currently taking part in our Chamber Music in Residence course, whilst James Baillieu will tell us more about his work for the upcoming Aldeburgh Festival Academy, as Britten Pears Arts aims to expand the opportunities available to early career musicians.

The Paddington Trio are part of the Britten Pears Young Artist Programme and have just completed the Chamber Music in Residence course. They have been recognised in international competitions and live performances for their fresh interpretations and exuberant energy.
Like Paddington Bear, after whom the trio takes its name, Finnish violinist Tuulia Hero, Irish cellist Patrick Moriarty, and American pianist Stephanie Tang have made London their home, where they have emerged as an ensemble of a wholly distinctive and lasting identity. Celebrated for their close and energetic communication, the trio is known for insightful and imaginative programming alongside highly refined ensemble playing, bringing warmth, vitality and individuality to every performance.

James Baillieu has been appointed inaugural Associate Director of the Britten Pears Young Artist Programme (2026–28), a role that marks a meaningful return to an organisation central to his own artistic development and through which he is helping to shape and nurture the next generation of musicians. Working closely with Britten Pears Arts, James is also the deviser and leader of the newly founded Festival Academy, which offers young singers and collaborative pianists full immersion in the Aldeburgh Festival. The Academy combines intensive study and performance opportunities with close collaboration with leading artists including Lise Davidsen, Nicky Spence, Julia Faulkner and Caroline Dowdle, opening a window onto the coaching process and the creative work that happens behind the scenes.

Watch A Day in the Life of a Young Musician