Peter Somerford
Peter Somerford is a regular contributor to The Strad.
NewsAnalysis: Support Network
The past few years have seen a change in attitudes regarding mental health provision at UK music colleges. How are conservatoires responding to rapidly growing demand? From January 2020
NewsAnalysis: Brain training
Can learning a musical instrument have a positive effect on a child’s mental health? Players and teachers give their thoughts on the psychological benefits for young people, as Peter Somerford finds out
Premium ❘ NewsAnalysis July 2020: The new normal
As Covid-19 lockdowns are gradually lifted, orchestras and concert venues in Europe and Asia are contemplating the task of reopening in a socially distanced world
Premium ❘ NewsAnalysis June 2020: Secondary research
Musicians are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental cost of cutting down ebony and maple, even as stocks of top-quality wood are dwindling. What are the alternatives?
Premium ❘ NewsAnalysis: Desperate times, desperate measures
Now that concerts, festivals and physical music lessons have been cancelled for the foreseeable future, how are string players coping in a world without their normal revenue streams?
Premium ❘ ArticleA Sforzando of Interest? Analysis April 2020
The number of professional orchestral players in Germany is finally on the rise again. But does this mean classical music is becoming more popular, or is this just a flash in the pan?
NewsAnalysis: Proactive solutions
A new organisation founded by violin and bow makers aims to work with legislators to find answers to the problem of endangered wood species
Premium ❘ ArticleAnalysis: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
In these environmentally aware times, players will be conscious of the long-term impact of the strings they’re using. What are manufacturers doing to set their minds at rest? Peter Somerford finds out
Premium ❘ NewsAnalysis: the ramifications of a no-deal Brexit for musicians
With the prospect of a no-deal Brexit looking increasingly likely, what are the real ramifications for musicians – and what steps can be taken to minimise the impact?