Henry Blofeld to celebrate British music on Classic FM

Former Test Match Special commentator Henry Blofeld has joined Classic FM to host a new radio series.

The broadcaster will host a four-part series this weekend celebrating classical music composed within or written about the British Isles.

During the series ‘Blowers’ will look at all four corners of the British Isles, exploring both well-known and less familiar music. The series will also feature stories behind the works and his own recollections.

Composers included in the series range from George Frideric Handel to Gustav Holst, Sir Karl Jenkins to John Rutter and Sir Edward Elgar to Ralph Vaughan Williams. Recordings will come from orchestras and choirs including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, London Symphony, Royal Scottish National and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestras.

Blowers Around Britain will air from Friday, 30th March to Monday, 2nd April between 9pm and 10pm on Classic FM.

Henry Blofeld said: “What a thrill it is to be joining Classic FM. Their recipe for radio is perfect. Fantastic music, skilfully interwoven into our everyday lives under the dynamic teamwork of the Classic FM family. I simply can’t wait to get on air and engage with the listeners as we celebrate the best in British music.”

Sam Jackson, Classic FM’s managing editor, said: “Blowers is a true broadcasting legend and a huge fan of Classic FM, so we’re excited to welcome him to the station. Britain is a world leader in producing and inspiring the greatest classical music ever written and Henry is the ideal choice to host this new series celebrating both music and country.”

Classic FM is available on DAB digital radio across the UK, as well as 100-102 FM and digital television. Classic FM can also be found online at classicfm.com and in the Classic FM and Radioplayer apps.