BBC Radio 3 is to launch a new weekly classical music chart podcast that will feature a few complete tracks.
The 25-minute-long download will be hosted by the station's breakfast show presenters Rob Cowan and Sara Mohr-Pietsch.
It will be the first podcast from BBC Audio & Music to feature full music tracks – they'll be some of the week's new entries, re-entries and other CDs in the top 20.
The first edition will be available from midday next Tuesday (2 November).
Roger Wright, Controller of BBC Radio 3, says: "This is the podcast for any music fan who wants to keep an eye on the most popular new classical CDs making an impact across the UK and is a breakthrough in offering listeners complete tracks to enjoy wherever they are and whatever device they're listening on. We have worked together with the classical recording industry on this initiative and we know that it will bring to a wider audience the new releases that have captured the imagination of the public."
Ginny Cooper, Vice Chair, BPI Classical Committee, says: "We are delighted with the ongoing support Radio 3 is providing the specialist classical chart by making a podcast available. This will further enhance listeners' ability to access the plethora of fantastic and innovative new recordings released every week. The UK has a wonderful history of both classical music and record companies making recordings, and we are happy that Radio 3 is providing us an opportunity to present these recordings within a modern world."
Radio 3 began broadcasting the Official Specialist Classical Chart in April this year. We're told the podcast will be available for a six-month trial period.
The Official Specialist Classical Chart is compiled by the Official Charts Company, based on sales through specialist, independent, general multiple and digital retailers. It is 100% classical repertoire with soundtracks, artist-CDs and Various compilation albums excluded.