Voices of the Air

Available for over a year

A repeat broadcast of the 1994 documentary which explored the formation and early history of the BBC Singers. Anthony Burton talks to some members of the original line-up in 1924, and tells the story of the group through the 1930s when Peter Pears was a member of the tenor section, the 1940s with the trials of wartime evacuation, through to the 1960s when the BBC Singers established its reputation as a leading exponent of contemporary choral music. Presented by Anthony Burton Producer: Michael Emery Revised repeat Following this, Petroc Trelawny - live backstage at the Barbican - brings the story of the BBC Singers right up-to-date, hearing about the ensemble's recent work and history in conversation with former Chief Conductors Simon Joly and Stephen Cleobury, and current incumbent David Hill.