Alumni Careers: "Every time I walked into Guildhall, I felt a surge of excitement and possibility"
A conversation with alumna Alexandra Dariescu ahead of her performances of 'The Nutcracker and I' at Guildhall School
Guildhall alumna and professor Alexandra Dariescu (Piano 2011) is a trailblazing pianist performing a diverse and thought-provoking repertoire, standing out as an original voice in the international pianistic scene.
She is the creator of The Nutcracker and I, a ground-breaking multimedia performance for piano solo with dance and digital animation, which premiered at Guildhall School in 2017, and has since gone on to international acclaim. We are delighted that the production is returning to Milton Court on Tuesday 26 November for its 100th performance.
We caught up with Alexandra ahead of the concerts to hear more about this unique production and her experience of studying, and now teaching, at Guildhall School.
The Nutcracker and I is such a unique reimagining of a beloved classic. What inspired you to create this project, and what do you hope audiences take away from it?
The Nutcracker and I was born out of my desire to create a truly magical experience that brings classical music to a broader audience, especially young people. I wanted to reimagine Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece in a way that bridges traditional and digital art forms, merging piano performance with ballet and very cool animation. My hope is that audiences feel inspired and see that classical music can be as captivating, innovative, and inclusive as any other genre. Ultimately, I want them to connect emotionally, to see the beauty in tradition but also in the possibilities of reinvention. I’m hoping this production will inspire them to dare to dream!
What does it mean to you to be presenting this milestone performance of The Nutcracker and I at Guildhall?
Returning to Guildhall School for this milestone feels like a full-circle moment. Guildhall was pivotal in my development as an artist and also where The Nutcracker and I was born in December 2017! Bringing it back here for its 100th performance is incredibly meaningful. It’s a celebration of not only this project but also the education and support that Guildhall provided me. It feels like coming home, and I’m excited to share this journey with the next generation of artists in a place that meant so much to me.
You’ve toured this production all around the world to great acclaim. What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of touring?
Touring The Nutcracker and I has been both exhilarating and humbling. One of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing how universally the story resonates, whether I’m in Asia, Europe, Australia or the US. It’s incredible to see how the fusion of piano, ballet, and digital animation can transcend cultural boundaries and speak to so many people. The best feeling is seeing three or even four generations from the same family at our piano recital!
How would you describe the atmosphere and culture at Guildhall School during your time there? What did it feel like to walk into the building?
Every time I walked into Guildhall, I felt a surge of excitement and possibility. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, full of students from all over the world, each with their own artistic voice. There was a sense of shared purpose, and every hallway seemed to echo with music and creativity. It felt like being part of a big, passionate family where everyone was striving to be their best.
Are there specific memories or experiences at Guildhall School that had a lasting impact on you? And how did Guildhall School prepare you for your career?
The most profound experience was studying with my professor, Ronan O’Hora. He taught me the invaluable lesson of always staying true to myself, both in music and in life. His mentorship encouraged me to find my own voice as an artist, and his guidance continues to inspire me in every project I undertake.
Guildhall taught me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the courage to forge my own path. The friendships, collaborations, and guidance I received here gave me the foundation I needed to navigate my career with confidence.
What has been your career highlight since leaving Guildhall School?
Too many to count! I’m truly living the dream, travelling to new places almost every week and performing with some of the world’s greatest orchestras. One personal milestone has been achieving gender equality in my concerto programming for three consecutive years, bringing to light forgotten or neglected female composers alongside their well-known male counterparts. It’s about reflecting our society in my programming, showing the other side of history and setting an example for future generations.
Where can people find out more about your work?
On my website, on all social media platforms, and through various streaming services where I share my music. I love connecting with different audiences and sharing about my projects and performances, including my new album featuring Clara Schumann and Grieg, which was released in the summer with the Philharmonia Orchestra.
How has the industry evolved since you graduated, and how have you adapted to these changes?
The industry has become much more digital and interconnected, and there’s a greater emphasis on multimedia and cross-genre projects. This shift aligns well with my own interests, as seen in The Nutcracker and I. Social media has also changed how artists reach audiences, allowing for more personal connection. I’ve embraced these changes by blending digital and live elements, creating accessible and engaging experiences for audiences of all ages.
What do you enjoy most about working with students and young artists at Guildhall?
Working with young artists at Guildhall is incredibly inspiring. I love their energy, curiosity, and openness to new ideas. Each student brings a unique perspective, and it’s rewarding to watch them grow, not only in skill but in confidence. They remind me of the boundless possibilities in music and keep me grounded in the importance of mentorship and sharing knowledge.
Collaboration plays such a big role in The Nutcracker and I. What advice would you give to students looking to collaborate with other artists from different disciplines?
My advice would be to stay open and curious. Collaboration is about listening and respecting each other’s artistry. When artists from different disciplines come together, there’s potential to create something much richer and more dynamic. Embrace the diversity in approaches, and don’t be afraid to try new things - it’s often where the magic happens.
What would be your one message to the Class of 2024?
To the Class of 2024, I’d say: stay true to your voice and never stop exploring. The path of an artist is full of challenges, but with perseverance, passion, and openness, you’ll find your way. Embrace every opportunity, learn from setbacks, and always remember the joy of creating and sharing music. But most importantly, dare to dream!
The Nutcracker and I will be performed in Milton Court Concert Hall at 6pm & 8pm on Tuesday 26 November 2024. Tickets are available from the Barbican Box Office
