Music, Migration & Mobility

This exhibition, created by the Royal College of Music, titled Migration and Mobility - the story of émigré musicians from Nazi-Europe in Britain, explores the lives and legacies of émigré musicians who fled the Nazi regime and the ravages of war displayed through a mixture of visual and audio exhibits.

Many of the most influential figures in post-war British musical life were émigré musicians who were forced to leave their homeland as a direct result of the rise and impact of the Nazi regime in Germany. From Jewish musicians who were removed from their posts to political opponents escaping retribution, Britain offered a creative home where they could thrive and go on to a play a role in enriching its cultural life.

The unprecedented wave of emigration of highly skilled musicians from Nazi-Europe had a lasting impact on musical culture in Britain, with major cultural institutions like the BBC, the Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne Opera and the Royal College of Music all employing émigré musicians.

Hear the stories of these brave and talented musicians and their experiences of life before and after WWII.