Podcast episodes

Here you can listen to key episodes from the BOS podcast, hosted by Ann Collins.

Michael Rose: A pillar of music education in Bedfordshire

Michael Rose is recognised both locally and nationally as having been a pillar in music education and music-making in Bedford over the last half century. At over 90 years old, he can look back on a career that inspires many. He has taught, supported and encouraged many musicians over the years and in particular young musicians, especially through the youth orchestras and ensembles, which continue to produce many fine musicians. Many of those who were taught by Michael have gone onto professional careers or to take a role in amateur music as performers, teachers, composers, conductors, keen amateurs and parents of the next generation of musicians. It is credit to him that so many of them frequently recognise his role and the role of Bedfordshire’s Youth Music Service in their musical journey. 

In this episode we explore two aspects of his work in particular: his conducting and his views on youth music. Michael conducted the Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra and Bedford Sinfonia for many years, amongst other orchestras and choirs, and it was only in 2023 that he retired. His experience of conducting is immense both in terms of the repertoire and the type of players he worked with. He shares with us his views on what makes a great conductor and how he approaches the task. He talks also about how we should, given the deep cuts in music education over the last decade or so, take youth music forward.

Mark Phillips: Why composition in schools matters

Mark Phillips is formerly Her Majesty’s Inspector, Senior HMI in the London region and Ofsted’s National Lead for Music, where he inspected maintained and independent schools, led on inspector training and induction, linked with local authorities and the music education sector, and liaised with the Department for Education. Now he works with leaders across the country to bring about sustainable improvement in music education.

At the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society, we are lucky enough to have had Mark on board to lead our Young Composer’s Competition 2026. In this episode he spoke about the competition, the importance of composition and the role of amateur community music in supporting music education.  

To connect with Mark, visit his LinkedIn profile.

Carolyn Sampson: The power of local music-making

Carolyn Sampson is a soprano at the top of her game, both here in the UK but also internationally. She has recently released her 100th album, titled But I like to sing! She’s also been named Gramophone Artist of the Year, was awarded an OBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours List for her services to music, and was named an Honorary Member of the Royal Academy of Music.  

Carolyn is from Bedford and came through the Bedfordshire Youth Music Service, and speaks often about the positive impact that it had on her as a young musician. In this episode she speaks candidly about how those experiences mattered and how young musicians today continue to need local support.   

For more info about Carolyn, visit her website or follow her on Instagram, LinkedIn and Bluesky.