Nicola Benedetti on leading Edinburgh International Festival with inclusive vision

Violinist Nicola Benedetti, reflecting on her journey from teen prodigy to director of the Edinburgh International Festival, advocates for arts inclusivity and a 'tinge of chaos' in festival programming. In an interview, she discusses her mission to make classical music accessible to diverse audiences, emphasizing community engagement and breaking down elitist barriers. Benedetti, who took the helm in 2022, plans to expand the festival's reach beyond traditional venues, incorporating unconventional spaces and collaborative projects. She stresses the importance of risk-taking and spontaneity in curating, arguing that festivals should embrace unpredictability to remain vibrant and relevant. Her approach includes partnerships with local organizations and educational initiatives to foster long-term cultural participation. The 2024 edition, running from August 2 to September 1, will feature a mix of established and emerging artists across disciplines, with a focus on Scottish talent and international collaborations.