… with Classic FM’s Composer in Residence Debbie Wiseman
By Fiona McCarthy First published in the Mail On Sunday, September 2016
Classic FM’s Composer in Residence Debbie Wiseman
I bought this fan when I was at the 2014 Cordoba International Film Music Festival in Spain, conducting my scores for films such as Tom & Viv. As the first female composer to conduct at the festival, it’s a memento of a magical event.
I composed the music for my friend George Layton’s story The Fib in 2011, about a boy who lies that his uncle is Bobby Charlton. It was one of the most memorable concerts I’ve ever conducted. Sir Bobby (above, centre) came to see it and loved it.
My brother gave me this baton 15 years ago for my birthday. Batons are very personal – I love the way this one feels in my hand.
My friend Sir Sydney Samuelson, the first British film commissioner, gave me this miniature version of the MBE I was awarded in 2004. It’s delicate enough to wear on formal occasions and a reminder of how lovely it was to have my work recognised.
The TV adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall was my sixth collaboration with director Peter Kosminsky. He uses music to help actors develop their characters, so I write it before they begin filming. This was my first soundtrack to go to number one in the classical charts.
My mum bought me this upright Monington & Weston piano when I was seven. I knew I wanted to be a musician aged 13, because getting home to practice was so important. I love forgetting myself in the music for a while.
I have a ridiculously large hat collection. They help finish off any outfit and are great for bad hair days. They make me feel good in whatever I’m wearing
Composing the Overture and Finale music for the Queen’s 90th birthday celebration was unforgettable. It was full of the things she loves, including marching bands and horses. You could see how much she was enjoying it
I’ve taken this poster of Beethoven with me everywhere I’ve been – it has hung above my piano for as long as I can remember. I find his presence reassuring and comforting
