Neeme Järvi: ‘Every parent MUST introduce their child to music’

14 September 2018, 12:01 | Updated: 14 September 2018, 12:06

As a parent to two conductors and a world-class flautist, it should be no surprise that Neeme Järvi is a believer in early musical education.

Last night at the Gramophone Awards, 82-year-old maestro Neeme Järvi picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to music. He was presented the award by his son, Kristjan – a renowned conductor in his own right.

Read more: Joyce DiDonato, Christian Tetzlaff and Neeme Järvi recognised in Gramophone Awards 2018

A parent to Paavo, Kristjan and Maarika, Järvi was particularly keen to stress the importance of introducing children to classical music at a young age.

He told Classic FM: “From four or five years old, [children] have to be as close to music as possible. They just need to be led in the right direction by their parents, and that will produce great results.

“Great classical music is the beginning for everybody. We have so many different types of music, which all originated from classical music, from rhythms and harmonies to tempi. It’s very important for young people to [learn about] classical music.”

Yesterday, Sir Simon Rattle announced he would be opening the LSO East London Academy, a free school for young musicians. The Academy will aim to identify and nurture young musical talent in the area.

Of the initiative, Järvi said: “This is a fantastic thing. And if there is a possibility for a young person to be introduced to music, every parent must get immediately involved and [encourage] their small geniuses to learn about it.”

Alongside his win, Järvi conducted the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra in a moving performance of Richard Strauss’ ‘Morgen’ starring Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen, who was presented with the Young Artist of the Year Award.

Watch the full ceremony again here: