Bauer Media is to launch a ground-breaking brand-new classical entertainment radio station, Scala Radio. Offering classical music for modern life, Scala Radio is set to be the biggest launch in UK classical music radio in nearly thirty years and anticipates an explosive growth in the genre and an ever growing cross-over into the mainstream.
Launching on Monday 4 March, Scala Radio will bring together familiar masters along with fresh and exciting new classical pieces, and promises to surprise and delight listeners with its accessible tone and unique format inspiring musical discovery, along with conversation and features.
Leading the presenting line-up is much-loved and award-winning broadcaster, Simon Mayo who will host a brand-new mid-morning entertainment show, with celebrity interviews, listener interaction and a new re-imagined ‘Classical Confessions’ feature.
With conversation alongside the music, the new station will feature Angellica Bell leading the weekend; Mark Kermode who will bring alive his love of film scores; and Chris Rogers hosting a live Sunday brunch show with guests.
Music innovators Goldie and William Orbit will also launch their own series – Goldie’s Classic Life and William Orbit in The Space, and one of Britain’s youngest commissioned composers – 19-year-old Jack Pepper will bring a new fresh point of view to classical music on the radio. Also on the line-up are presenters, Charles Nove, Mark Forrest, Sam Hughes and Jamie Crick.
Scala Radio presenter, Simon Mayo, commented on the launch:
“There are hundreds of radio stations playing rock and pop, and only two classical music stations up until now. We’re different because we’re going all to entertain, laugh with the listeners, and have a good time. Some of it will be familiar, some new and exciting but all timeless, beautiful and all absolutely relevant to today.”
Steve Parkinson, Bauer Group Managing Director, National Radio, said:
“We are launching new radio brands at great velocity and we believe that Scala is the most exciting new personality-led radio station launch in years. The mix of music, personality and conversation will make it both intriguing and completely unique. We’ve completely re-imagined a format and designed it to appeal to a modern audience. This will be the very best in classical music for today.”
Scala Radio will feature a broad and topical variety of music, including familiar masters from Mozart and Holst to surprising new works from living composers such as Karl Jenkins, Rebecca Dale and Thom Yorke. Launching on the 4 March 2019, the station will also feature topical shows covering the influence of classical music in gaming, mindfulness and special guest weekly round ups.
Listen on national DAB Digital Radio, online, via smart speakers and via mobile apps. Further information on how to listen can be found at www.scalaradio.co.uk.