Charlotte Higgins’s interview with Edward Gardner on Guardian Unlimited reveals the young conductor’s determination and faith in his ability to bolster the appreciation of opera in this country, despite potential cutbacks from the Art Council’s funding.

Award-winning Gardner has won hearts and fame with his charming exuberance and considerable talent. Since taking over as Music Director of Glyndebourne at the tender age of 28, the musical maestro has been highly sought after within the classical music industry. Considering his lifelong attachment to the company (the first opera he ever saw was an ENO production of Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk by Shostakovich and his mentor, Mark Elder, who was music director of ENO) it is no surprise that he has chosen to devote himself to the organisation.

Strauss’s Rosenkavlier and Verdi’s Aida are two upcoming treats (with Gardner conducting the latter) and a new production of Carmen will be leading this autumn’s season which will continue to be sponsored by Sky Arts. To find out more about the 2007/2008 season, click here.