Conversations Encore: A home filled with music — raising the Kanneh-Masons
May 30, 2025
Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason, a former English academic and mother of seven gifted classical musicians, shares her family's musical journey. She discusses the dedication required to nurture their talents, including her children's impressive achievements, like Isata’s concerto at eleven and Sheku's performance at the royal wedding. Kadiatu also reflects on cultural identity, the challenges of raising a big, mixed-race family, and the significance of making music accessible to everyone. Their home is a delightful blend of chaos and harmony, filled with the sounds of classical music.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Musical Family Life
- Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason has seven children all gifted classical musicians. They fill the home with chaotic, glorious music daily, showcasing a unique family dynamic.
Shared Musical Cultures
- Welsh and Mende cultures both emphasize communal singing as natural and expected. This shared tradition created a musical link in Kadiatu's parents' marriage.
Childhood Nursery Drop-Off
- Kadiatu recalls being dropped off at nursery by her father, who looked both sad and reassuring. She screamed for him, feeling abandoned and scared, a memory that stayed with her.
