Radio Times

Review by:

Patrick Mulkern

Nicola Benedetti has come a long way since she won BBC Young Musician in 2004. This lovely, completely unstuffy profile follows the violin virtuoso (who turns 25 today) on a hectic three-month schedule that takes in Venice, Rio de Janeiro and her native Scotland.

Taking a break from rehearsing The Lark Ascending at London’s Cadogan Hall, she talks about her drives and influences, and flashes her 1717 Stradivarius – worth an estimated £8 million – at Melvyn Bragg, who beams back at her like an indulgent grandpa. Or at least I think that’s what he’s doing.

About this programme

Profile of violin virtuoso Nicola Benedetti. Cameras follow the musician over a hectic two-month period, joining her during rehearsals in England. She then returns to her roots in Venice and Udine, before working in the recording studio, and visiting schools in Scotland to spread the word that classical music can speak to young people of all backgrounds.

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