How do you mostly listen to music?
For me digitally, I listen to it anywhere, either on a plane or in a car.
What was the first ever record you bought?
I was a die-hard 90’s pop consumer. So I think it was the Spice Girls first album.
What was the last piece of music you bought?
If you found yourself with six months free to learn a new instrument, what would you choose?
Having been born without my right hand I’m quite limited in what I could choose, but I would learn the Cello. It would certainly have to be adapted or I’d have to wear a cool electronic prosthetic arm to enable me to bow.
Is applauding between movements acceptable?
I would say yes. It certainly doesn’t bother me – if anything it’s quite nice having a bit of encouragement between the movements of a big sonata.
What single thing would improve the format of the classical concert?
I would get rid of all the stuffy rules and etiquettes and try and make the audience feel comfortable so they can just enjoy the music, as that’s what it’s all about – enjoying the experience, not sitting there scared to clap or not to clap, or worrying if you’re underdressed or overdressed.
We’re giving you a time machine: what period, or moment in musical history, would you travel to and why?
I’d travel back to the 1930s, I love the look and style of the era. Also, piano and pianists were so popular in those days even in the mainstream, so it would have definitely suited me!
Do you enjoy musicals? Do you have a favourite?
Yes, I like Sondheim especially. I think my favourite would be Into The Woods or A Little Night Music.
Which conductor or performer of yester-year do you most wish you could have worked with?
I would have loved to have worked with Herbert von Karajan. I often listen to his recordings.
Which non-classical musician would you love to work with?
Emeli Sandé. She has such an amazing unique voice and I also love her look.
Imagine you’re a festival director here in London with unlimited resources. What would you programme - or commission - for your opening event?
I would commission a new Left-Hand Piano Concerto as I’m very passionate about keeping this medium alive and kicking. I’d also programme in the opening concert Mahler’s 5th Symphony. It’s one of my favourite pieces, and audiences love it.
It’s late, you’ve had a few beers, you’re in a Karaoke bar. What do you choose to sing?
Probably something by Amy Winehouse, maybe Valerie. It’s a fun, upbeat song, it makes you feel happy and want to dance. I was a huge fan of hers. Even today I still find it so sad that she’s not around any more sharing her amazing talent.
Nicholas McCarthy’s debut album, Solo, is out now on Warner Classics. He performs at the Elgar Room, Royal Albert Hall, London on 11 October.
