Season 5 Episode 2: Armand Djikoloum

Legends of Reed

In this episode of Legends of Reed, host Jo Anne Sukumaran interviews French oboist Armand Djikoloum, who shares his journey from early musical beginnings to becoming a professional musician. He discusses the challenges of being an oboist, the importance of physical fitness through running, and the impact of social media on musicians. Armand emphasizes the need for self-care, mental resilience, and creating positive environments in music. He also reflects on the recording process and the significance of staying true to oneself in the competitive world of classical music.

French born oboist Armand Djikoloum enjoys a varied and highly successful career as both a soloist and chamber musician, featuring frequently as a guest with some of Europe’s finest orchestras and ensembles. Armand will be joining a star-studded group of YCAT artists in February 2025, as they celebrate YCAT’s 40 year anniversary, performing at venues such as BoulezSaal Berlin, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Philharmonie Cologne, Tauberphilharmonie Weikersheim and Wigmore Hall.

Armand Djikoloum, is a multi prize winning soloist and chamber musician and, in 2022, was recognised as one of Classic FM’s Rising Stars.

Find out more about Armand here: https://www.ycat.co.uk/armand-djikoloum

Listen to the latest chamber music album "Zelenka: Trio Sonatas Zwv 181 & Ghosts" :https://open.spotify.com/album/0FlcdMG3wFLoFJkE0udTPF?si=5xFDJfG_Sl-UkpitZr2VMw

Photo credit (c) Kaupo Kikkas

IG: https://www.instagram.com/armandjikoloum/

Hosted by Jo Anne Sukumaran

https://www.joannesukumaran.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/jewelair2.0/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Armand

03:08 Early Musical Beginnings

07:03 Recording Process and Collaboration

11:41 Running as a Complement to Music

16:26 Injury and Recovery in Music

24:20 Creating Positive Musical Environments

30:25 Challenges of the Oboe as a Solo Instrument

37:46 Social Media and the Musician's Image

42:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement