Classic FM has extended its partnership with the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra for another five years – representing the stations biggest investment in live orchestral music. The deal means the RLPO will be heard by 6 million people every week.
The concerts will be broadcast during 2008, during Liverpool's year as European Capital of Culture.
Speaking about the new partnership, Classic FM Managing Director Darren Henley said: "This marks a major new investment in our broadcasting of live orchestral concerts. We're delighted to be able to showcase the music-making of the Liverpool Phil to our UK-wide audience. This is an orchestra which has undergone a major transformation with the arrival of its new Chief Conductor, Vasily Petrenko. The people of Liverpool know just how great the orchestra has become – now we're going to make sure the rest of the UK hears all about it".
Chief Executive of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Michael Elliott said: "We have made significant investment in the recording infrastructure of Philharmonic Hall to enable us to reach out to audiences with our music beyond the concert hall. We are delighted that through our partnership, Classic FM is making use of this facility to enhance their live broadcast commitment to UK orchestras. Liverpool is the UK's nomination for European Capital of Culture and Classic FM's broadcast of our concerts, along with special programming for 2008 will provide a touchstone for listeners across the UK to experience and find out more about the exceptional cultural year that Liverpool has planned."