Podcast

“TMDTA podcast has become a place for so many unsaid subjects to finally be aired. The bravery and commitment of Hattie and Becca to bring to the surface difficult conversations in a supportive and gentle way is to be highly commended.” Rakhi Singh

“Through Thing Musicians Don’t Talk About, Hattie and Becca have shone lights, given hope and started new and important conversations. Their work and dedication to this cause is so impressive and their reach is rightly spreading throughout institutions, broadcasters and other platforms in our industry.” Anne Denholm-Blair

Our lives as musicians can feel lonely

We are part of a wonderful profession of innovation and change, alongside tradition. We bring creativity and joy to the lives of many people, but often our own lives feel hidden. Issues we may be facing with motivation, money, mental health and injury are too often kept inside. We are scared of what might happen if we share our struggles as well as our music.

Things Musicians Don’t Talk About tells musicians’ stories. Our community aims to create a safe space to open up discussion and share our experiences in order to raise awareness for the real issues we face.

Nothing is off limits, we will talk about anything we need to. This will always be the main aim, regardless of how uncomfortable or stigmatised the issue is.

You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and below!

111. Jessica Duchen: activism, power and politics Things Musicians Don't Talk About

We couldn't be more pleased to be releasing this interview with legendary journalist Jessica Duchen. Hosted in her beautiful home, we speak about her path into writing, how personal challenges have affected her outlook on life and journalism, and her decision to no longer be "muzzled". Her commitment to uncovering classical music's uncomfortable truths has resulted in some iconic articles, including her coverage of Ilan Volkov's 2025 Proms pro-Palestinian statement, the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra and El-Sistema, and sexism in classical music. A true TMDTA hero.————————————————————-Things Musicians Don't Talk About is supported by the Royal Society of Musicians! Follow RSM on Instagram, X and Facebook.————————————————————-Hosts: Hattie Butterworth & Rebecca ToalEditor: Emma WernerMusic: Katy Ehrlich Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
  1. 111. Jessica Duchen: activism, power and politics
  2. 110. The future of TMDTA
  3. 109. Surviving ballet: Louise Bennett on change in the industry
  4. 108. The Break Down: predicting, reflecting, replying.
  5. 107. Thangam Debbonaire & Eleanor Turner: The Political Musician | Live at RSM