Classical music superstar Nicola Benedetti to host series on Classic FM

Grammy award-winning violinist Nicola Benedetti is to present a brand-new series this summer on Classic FM.

The Truth About Classical Music with Nicola Benedetti, her first series on the station, is inspired by the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival theme, ‘The Truth We Seek’ of which Benedetti is Festival Director.

Nichola will go behind the scenes of the classical music world to draw on a life dedicated to performing, educating and connecting with audiences. Through her personal story, the renowned violinist sets out to demystify classical music and reveal the intense commitment, vulnerability and joy at its heart.

Each programme will be on a different theme of classical music. In the first episode – ‘The Truth About Being a Concert Violinist’ – Nicola offers a frank and engaging look at the realities of life on stage.

Accompanied by recordings of her performances, she reflects on the repertoire that has shaped her career, from the Four Seasons by Vivaldi to her latest interpretation of Beethoven.

She also speaks openly about working with conductors, recalling the realities of the rehearsal room, and the relationships she has developed with living composers.

Future episodes will see Nichola revealing how much practice it takes to be one of the world’s most sought-after classical musicians, as she shares her own routines, and stories from legendary performers to the rigorous dedication and passion it takes to be at the very top of the profession.

Nicola said: “I’m excited to host my first series on Classic FM. Together, we’ll take a peek behind the scenes into the truth of performing live and practising.

“We will look at a musician’s understanding of our audiences through the perspective of my directorship of Edinburgh International Festival, and the importance of fostering a positive relationship to music early in life, something we champion at The Benedetti Foundation.

“I’ll be sharing many favourite pieces of music of mine, and hope audiences will enjoy listening as much as I will presenting it.”

Philip Noyce, Classic FM’s Managing Editor, said: “Nicola is one of the greatest violinists of her generation and shares our passion for making classical music accessible to all. So we’re thrilled that she’s joining the Classic FM family for this exclusive series, The Truth About Classical Music with Nicola Benedetti. Through it, Nicola will offer our listeners rare and personal insights, sharing her experiences and lifelong commitment to a remarkable career devoted to classical music.”

The new six-part series will air on Classic FM every Friday at 9pm, from 27 June.