"Composer Alexis Ffrench makes the point: Audiences prefer amusement in classical music, rather than learning."
In a thought-provoking conversation, composer Alexis Ffrench shared his vision for making classical music more accessible and entertaining with Tim Lovejoy. The interview, conducted by Sam Pittis for our website, did not take place at the Classic BRIT Awards, which returned to the Royal Albert Hall in 2018 after a five-year absence.
Ffrench, known for his championing of melodies in his classical music compositions, believes that music should be allowed to speak for itself. He emphasises the importance of making classical music simple and memorable, rather than overcomplicating it with unnecessary complexities.
Ffrench's philosophy is not just about blending classical elements with soul and contemporary styles, but also about focusing on universal themes in music, such as grief and emotion, to connect more deeply with listeners on a human level. By doing so, he hopes that people will come away from his music singing tunes, rather than just appreciating it intellectually.
The composer employs 21st-century production techniques in his compositions, bridging the gap between traditional classical music and modern audiences. This fusion helps to make the genre feel more relevant and emotionally resonant today.
In the interview, Lovejoy expressed his love for classical music but noted that he doesn't want to feel the need to educate himself before listening to a piece. Ffrench agreed, stating that classical musicians should be aware that people want to be entertained, not necessarily educated.
Originally published on 15 June 2018, the article was updated on 13 June 2025. The conversation between Ffrench and Lovejoy is just one example of how Ffrench is working to bring classical music into contemporary listening spaces and formats, such as his involvement with the "Classical Connections" series on Apple Music.
With his holistic and emotionally driven approach, Ffrench is indeed becoming a classical-soul pioneer, making classical music feel welcoming and meaningful to a broader audience.
Classical music, in Ffrench's vision, should be both simple and memorable, designed to entertain as well as intellectually resonate with listeners. He is bridging the gap between traditional classical music and modern audiences by employing 21st-century production techniques.
