The Last Word with Matt Cooper Culture Club: Jamie Duffy
Oct 22, 2025
Jamie Duffy, a talented composer and pianist, shares insights on his debut album that fuses folk, classical, and contemporary sounds. He reflects on his musical upbringing and the influence of artists like Lana Del Rey and Enya. Jamie discusses composing for films, including his work on the soundtrack for '500 Miles,' and the significance of blending classical music with modern genres to engage younger audiences. He also shares memorable moments, from a spontaneous Björk DJ set in Reykjavík to the impact of Irish folktales on his creative journey.
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Genre-Blending Reframes Classical For Youth
- Jamie blends Irish folk, classical and pop to reach younger listeners under 35.
- Instrumental, melodic music invites varied personal interpretations and broadens classical's audience.
Failed Grades, Lifelong Musical Love
- Jamie had informal local piano lessons and failed exam grades, which pushed him toward creativity over rigid exam technique.
- He credits local teachers for instilling love of music despite the formal syllabus limitations.
Make Your Own Music
- Make your own music instead of mechanically regurgitating classical exam pieces.
- Prioritise creativity and personal expression over strict syllabus conformity.
