This week on Here’s What We Know, Gary Scott Thomas sits down with Robert Emery, world-renowned conductor, pianist, and Founder of The Arts Group, one of the UK’s most dynamic entertainment companies. From childhood prodigy to international maestro, Robert brings a refreshing, fun, and deeply human perspective on classical music, creativity, and the colorful personalities behind history’s greatest composers.
This episode is sponsored by:
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In this episode:
- Why classical music was once the “pop music” of its time
- Surprising connections between country, rock, and opera
- Robert’s bold journey from a 7-year-old pianist to global conductor and entrepreneur
- What conductors really do and the leadership lessons they offer
- Wild, unforgettable stories about legends like Liszt and Mozart
- How classical themes show up everywhere, from film scores to cartoons
- Robert’s drive to keep innovating through conducting, musicals, and TED’s List for online music education
Quotations:
“There’s always going to be people who are better than you, always. And the trick is to not care about that and to admire it and to say, “Well, maybe I can get to that status one day.” And then even if you do get to that level one day, there’ll always be somebody else who’s better than you, always a in music.” ~ Robert Emery
“Everybody has something special about them. You just have to find out what it is and tap into it. And that’s easier said than done.” ~ Robert Emery
“One of the problems with becoming an adult is that we put ourselves in boxes.” ~ Robert Emery
Bio:
Robert Emery is a conductor, pianist, and serial entrepreneur. He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in London’s Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, Robert has seen them all. Besides music, he is the Founder & Director of The Arts Group, one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the UK. Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label, and production company. Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs. E), a toddler (Master T), a baby (Master A), and 4 cats.
Guest Contact Info:
Website: https://robertemery.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/robertemeryofficial