30th anniversary for ABC ClassicFM

In a milestone for ABC Classic FM, the national classic music station turns 30 this year.

2006 also sees a number of interesting changes to the program line-up from tomorrow.

2006 listening highlights include a new lunchtime program Just Classics, featuring two hours of the best loved classical music and Gourmet Classics a one-hour music show offering tasty classical tracks to accompany whatever a Saturday night holds.

ABC Classic FM Program Manager John Crawford has told radioinfo: “Listeners joining the station for Just Classics will hear music that forms the heart of the classical repertoire. That means the best music, beautiful music that goes right to the heart of what the station is about.

“Gourmet Classics on the other hand is a lifestyle program. It’s about cooking, eating and sharing time with family and friends. It’s the perfect soundtrack for getting ready for the evening after the cool sound sounds of Jazztrack.

”These, and the other changes take ABC Classic FM into its 31st year with renewed confidence about our place in the radio landscape. With major radio events such as Mad About Mozart – a detailed exploration of his genius in this the 250th anniversary year of his birth, our Choir of the Year competition, the Classic 100 Opera poll, The Flame Awards – for musical education leadership, over 600 broadcasts of Australian concerts, and unparalleled coverage of festivals both here and overseas, ABC Classic FM is truly home to the world’s most beautiful music”.

** FROM 1 FEBRUARY **

NEW PROGRAMS:
– Just Classics: Presented by Damien Beaumont, Monday – Friday, 11.00am – 1.00pm
– Gourmet Classics: Presented by Damien Beaumont, Saturday, 7.00 – 8.00pm
– Rising Stars: Presented by Graham Abbott, Sunday, 9.00 – 10.00am
– New Music Up Late: Presented by Julian Day, Saturday 10.30 – 12.30am
– Jazz Up Late: Presented by Gerry Koster, Friday 10.30 – 12.30am

NEW TIMES:
– Afternoons: Presented by Charles Southwood, New time: 1.00pm – 5.00pm
– Classic Drive: Presented by Julia Lester, New time: 5.00pm – 8.00pm

NEW PRESENTER:
– Up Late: Presented by Emma Ayres, Monday – Thursday 10.30pm – 12.30am