Start Here

In this episode of Start Here, Alexis Ffrench explores the rich history, spiritual power and enduring influence of Gospel music with celebrated broadcaster, singer and actress Jumoke Fashola.Together, they unpack gospel’s roots in African musical traditions, folk song, hymnody and the African American church, tracing how the genre became a vital force in community, worship and musical expression. They discuss gospel’s unique musical language, from call and response to improvisation, and reflect on its deep connection to service, praise and human experience.The conversation also explores gospel’s influence on artists across soul, pop, rock and R&B, and highlights some of the key figures who shaped the genre, including Thomas Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland, Aretha Franklin, André Crouch and Kirk Franklin.Whether you know gospel well or are discovering it for the first time, this is a moving and insightful introduction to one of music’s most powerful and influential genres.

Season 3 of Start Here begins with a loud and uncompromising dive into Heavy Metal. Alexis Ffrench is joined by radio presenter and hard rock and metal expert Sophie K, alongside Mikey Demus of Skindred, to explore a genre that is far more nuanced, emotional and wide-ranging than many people might expect.Together, they unpack the origins of metal, from Black Sabbath and the early foundations of the sound to its many modern subgenres and global influence. They discuss the DNA of metal, its sense of identity and community, the power of distortion, and why the genre has long offered a space for emotion, release and belonging. The episode also looks at metal’s relationship with trauma, rebellion and vulnerability, its crossover with genres like hip-hop and electronic music, and where the sound is heading next.Whether you’re a lifelong fan or completely new to the genre, this is your starting point for understanding one of music’s most passionate and powerful worlds

Start Here is a podcast brought to you by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). Hosted by pianist, composer and producer Alexis Ffrench, the show returns for an exciting third season, now with full video episodes alongside the podcast.Exploring a wide range of musical genres, Start Here invites listeners and viewers on an entertaining and thought-provoking journey into the sound, culture and stories behind the music. Each episode features special guests and artists who share their insights, influences and recommendations on where to begin your musical exploration.From Heavy Metal to new and unexpected genres, Season 3 promises fresh perspectives, deeper conversations and more ways than ever to experience the music.

In the last episode of the season on Start Here, Alexis Ffrench explores the enduring power and raw emotion of Blues music with award-winning harmonica virtuoso and singer Giles Robson. Together, they delve into the genre’s deep-rooted origins, how Blues has evolved differently in the UK and the US, and why it continues to resonate so profoundly with the human experience.

In this episode, Alexis Ffrench explores the evolving world of the arena DJ with rising star Manami—a classically trained artist whose high-energy sets and eclectic influences have taken her from Bristol’s underground scene to major UK stages.Together, they delve into what it really takes to build a DJ career today, how to develop a unique sound, and the powerful relationship between performer, crowd and space. Manami also reflects on the persistence of outdated views in the industry—especially around gender—and why it’s time for a shift in how we talk about DJing and production.

What makes opera so powerful—and why does it still resonate today?In this episode of Start Here, Alexis Ffrench is joined by international tenor Freddie De Tommaso, a rising star who’s breathing new life into opera’s timeless tradition. From his chart-topping recordings to his unforgettable last-minute debut at the Royal Opera House, Freddie shares what fuels his love for performance and how the operatic voice can still shake the soul—and society—in the modern day.Together, they explore the unique power of the operatic voice, the discipline behind the craft, and opera’s enduring ability to move audiences across generations. This is a conversation about legacy, storytelling, and why opera might just be more relevant now than ever.

This week on Start Here, Alexis Ffrench dives into the infectious energy and genre-defying legacy of UK Garage with one of its most versatile figures, Flava D. In this episode, Alexis and Flava D unpack the core components of Garage, pay homage to key influences like Craig David and Todd Edwards, reflect on the genre’s explosion in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Plus, Flava D shares insights on how to break through today as a DJ or producer, and why Garage music still resonates so strongly with audiences around the world. Whether you’re two-stepping already or just discovering the scene, this is your gateway into the bold and brilliant world of UK Garage.

This week on Start Here, Alexis Ffrench ventures into the immersive world of video game music with legendary composer Robin Beanland. With a career spanning decades at Rare, Robin has shaped the sound of some of the most iconic games of all time, from Killer Instinct and Conker’s Bad Fur Day to the award-winning Sea of Thieves. Together, they explore how gaming music has evolved from simple 8-bit melodies to sweeping, cinematic scores that enhance storytelling and gameplay. Robin shares insights into his creative process, how music shapes player experience, and the unique way Sea of Thieves uses music dynamically within its open world. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer or just curious about the artistry behind game soundtracks, this episode reveals why gaming music is one of the most innovative and powerful forms of composition today.