Martin Kettle is a Guardian associate editor and columnist
January 2026
The world of today looks bad, but take hope: we’ve been here before and got through it – and we will again
Martin Kettle
As I write my last regular column for the Guardian, my thoughts turn to the lessons and hope we can take from history, says Guardian columnist Martin Kettle
The Makropulos Affair review – Simon Rattle leads a sensational and thrilling semi-staging
The tension barely let up for two hours as Rattle led the London Symphony Orchestra and a commanding cast through this vital account of Janáček’s opera.
Andrew Clements, Guardian’s classical music critic, dies aged 75
An outstanding critical voice, his deep knowledge and love of music was evident in everything he wrote
December 2025
Need cheering up after a terrible year? I may have just the story you’re looking for
Martin Kettle
Hugh Cutting/ Refound review – countertenor’s darkly compelling recital is an imaginative treat
2025 in culture
Shock and awe: our critics pick their best live classical events of 2025
Keir Starmer is our most musical prime minister since Edward Heath. He must take up the baton for the arts
Martin Kettle
Turandot review – Anna Netrebko brings greatness to Royal Opera’s classic staging
Why it’s ridiculous to call our new train system ‘Great’ British Rail
Martin Kettle
Europe is holding the line against Trump’s and Putin’s plans for Ukraine. But it won’t be able to for ever
Martin Kettle
November 2025
Rachel Reeves’s budget has inflamed, not calmed, Britain’s febrile mood
Martin Kettle
Partenope review – edgy and erotic Handel update
People are right to ask ‘what is the point of Labour?’ when it can’t agree on anything
Martin Kettle
Bavarian Radio SO/Rattle review – consistently fine and fervent playing
A word of warning to the hounds circling Starmer: be careful what you wish for
Martin Kettle
Rachel Reeves is damned if she raises income tax in the budget – and damned if she doesn’t
Martin Kettle
Aimard/Benjamin review – concentrated musical thought and pianistic imagination
October 2025
Thatcher was born 100 years ago and her reign feels a lifetime away. Why is her effect on the country still so huge?
Martin Kettle
Giustino review – sublime, and ridiculous, Handel rarity returns to Covent Garden
September 2025
Was this Starmer’s best speech? Yes. But he’ll need a new battle plan to convince a doubting Britain
Martin Kettle
The era when a barnstorming address would turn political fortunes is gone. The PM is out of step with modern digital politics and needs to catch up, says Guardian columnist Martin Kettle
