Speakers
Dame Judith Weir
Dame Judith Weir is a composer and was the first woman to serve as Master of the King’s Music (2014 – 2024). Her series of operas (including King Harald’s Saga, The Black Spider, A Night at the Chinese Opera, The Vanishing Bridegroom, Blond Eckbert and Miss Fortune) have been performed in the UK, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium and the USA. She has also created several opera films, including Scipio’s Dream, Hello Dolly, and Armida. The Secret of the Black Spider is being performed by the Opera North Youth Company at the Leeds Grand Theatre on 26th and 27th September 2025.
Dr Scott McLaughlin
Dr Scott McLaughlin is Associate Professor in Composition and Music Technology at the University of Leeds School of Music.
John Barber
John Barber is an award-winning composer whose work has been performed by some of the UK and Europe’s leading opera houses. Recent projects include The Selfish Giant for Opera North and Garsington Opera, Existence for the Arctic Light Choir / Gothenburg Opera Youth Choir and Joy! – a reflection of the Ode to Joy for the massed voices of the Dartington International Summer School.
Jacqui Cameron
Jacqui Cameron is Director of Learning & Engagement at Opera North, leading a team to create a range of participative arts experiences and performances for diverse audiences including a comprehensive range of musical activities for young people.
