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Change of Sky: An Interview with Nikki Iles

Change of Sky: An Interview with Nikki Iles

The first woman chief conductor of a German radio big band on her musical life and breakthroughs

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Michelle Mercer
Apr 17, 2025
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Change of Sky: An Interview with Nikki Iles
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When I saw the news of Nikki Iles’ appointment as principal conductor of the NDR Bigband, I leapt from my chair with joy. On April 3rd, NDR announced that the British pianist, composer, and conductor will be the first woman to take the lead at any of the state-funded German radio big bands. Nikki’s initial appointment is for two years.

My interest in Ni…

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