‘A year ago – wow – did the world look different’ – Joyce DiDonato on why only the arts can mend society

11 December 2017, 14:57 | Updated: 12 December 2017, 12:46

The opera star said she hoped the election of Donald Trump would ‘give birth to a radical emergence of really important creative arts’

Joyce DiDonato is one of the most recognisable names in classical music. She’s also been vocal in her criticism of Donald Trump and decisions taken by his administration, especially around the arts.

When she came into the Classic FM studio we spoke to her about the role of culture in this politically divided time.

Why do you think the arts are important at the moment?

“When we stop valuing Culture, we lose that North Star, that guiding compass of qualities like empathy, compassion and connection.”

How do you try to use music as a political tool?

“I think my approach is not trying to use music as a political tool, I’m trying to use it as a human tool.

“We have so many issues in common – music is a safe place to come and try and bridge the differences we feel.”

Joyce DiDonato stars in a new live recording of Berlioz's Les Troyens, conducted by John Nelson. Out now.