Marie-Louise Muir's last Sounds Classical

So am sitting in studio 8 of BBC, Broadcasting House, Belfast watching the clock. It's 5 to 8 and just after the 8 o'clock news I will present my last "Sounds Classical". I've been doing this show for over 4 years now. But about 2 months ago I realised that I had to make a decision. Working weekends, as well as during the week on "Arts Extra", 2 small children, family life, etc etc....something had to give. And reluctantly it is this show.

So I made the decision to quit, told my boss and gave him today's date as my last show.

As I left the house tonight I said to the two girls "I'm away, last show on a sunday night...mummy will be here now on sunday nights", expecting a warm rush of cheer. Instead they looked miserable.

And then I saw why, on the tv, there she was, in her glass coffin, the dwarves crying, the woodland animals crying. Snow White. Dead. 

At least I knew that the next frame would bring Prince Charming riding into view, and, with a kiss, bring her back to life and give my two girls their happy ever after.

And bitter sweet happy endings here too. Am not sure how I will be at the end of the show tonight at 10, especially with the last piece of music. It's my all time favourite, the intermezzo from Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana. A piece I first heard before I was even born. My mum was in a production of it in Birmingham when she was eight months pregnant with me! So there is something about babies and the womb and classical music, because it always hits the spot. It's only right that it's the last piece of music for me tonight. Oh and for the next 7 days if you fancy listening again on the bbc iplayer!