Alumnus explores Tchaikovsky’s secret history

School of Music alumnus, Patrick Reardon-Morgan, has spearheaded a new collaboration between the Phiharmonia Orchestra and Gay Star News.

The project includes an interview with Philharmonia bassist, Adam Wynter, as well as an article exploring the queer history of one of Russia’s most iconic cultural figures, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

In the film, journalist Jamie Wareham speaks to Adam about being gay in the classical music industry, as well as his reflections on Tchaikovsky’s works.

Patrick and Jamie have also written a feature for Gay Star News, exploring Tchaikovsky’s music in relation to his homosexuality in 19th century Russia.

The short film and article have been produced as part of Digital Pride 2018, a week-long festival of films and features, created to give a voice to LGBT+ people who are unable to attend a Pride event in person.

Digital Pride 2018 is taking place 23-28 April.

Jamie Wareham speaks to Adam Wynter about being gay in the classical music industry.

Of the project, Patrick said “It has been a pleasure to work with Gay Star News to shine a light on the fascinating gay history of Tchaikovsky, and to connect that with the stories of LGBT+ musicians working in the industry today.

“Our art form has such a rich queer heritage, and I am thrilled to help put that in the spotlight.”

Patrick graduated from the School of Music in 2015 and is now the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Friends and Online Giving Manager.