John Gilhooly on the importance of Wigmore Hall’s Learning schemes

‘OUR LEARNING PROJECTS are inspired by the intimate, shared experience of chamber music, where every voice is equally valued,’ says John Gilhooly. ‘Everyone is welcome to take part. That’s the ethos of Wigmore Hall and of our education work. People say we appeal to an old audience. But that’s a myth. Our concert audience is changing. We’re reaching out to younger people and connecting with the under-35s. Learning is a vital part of that. Most of our education work culminates in a performance at the Hall, but we’re taking chamber music and song to all parts of the community. Although some may sniff about it, we make no apology for placing Learning at the heart of Wigmore Hall.’