Latest news with #ABCClassic

ABC News
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
Jazz Legends: Sonny Rollins
With over 70 years of playing jazz under his belt, Sonny Rollins has seen a thing or two. He was present at so many turning points in the music: from bebop to modal jazz, post bop to fusion... and beyond. Now days at the age of 93, Sonny Rollins is one of the last of his generation and a true elder statesman. His contribution to music in both the 20th and 21st centuries is immense, and to this day, many aspiring tenor saxophonists still look to Sonny as a source on inspiration. He was a powerful player with a dominating sound - but he's also a gentle giant too, someone who was always looking to collaborate and pursue new avenues in jazz. Discover Sonny's life and music across this episode, with archival highlights from the ABC's vault, as well as excerpts from pianist Ben Sidran's Talking Jazz series on CD. This episode, presented by bass player and ABC Classic host, Eric Ajaye, was originally broadcast 3 July 2024

ABC News
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
QSO: Umberto's Mahler
Mahler's 6th symphony ends with 3 big hammer blows, which represent the blows of destiny. Night follows in the 7th symphony, after which comes day, and a big celebration of life. In 2024, The Queensland Symphony Orchestra's Chief Conductor, Umberto Clerici, continued the Mahler Cycle with this incredible work which is the sole piece in the program. Recorded in the QPAC Concert Hall on February 24, 2024 by ABC Classic. Producer Lucas Burns. Sound Engineer Costa Zouliou. Program Gustav Mahler: Symphony No 7 in E minor Artists Queensland Symphony Orcestra Umberto Clerici (conductor) Find out more Visit the QSO here

ABC News
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
Live updates: The Classic 100: Piano countdown has begun but who will be #1?
It's the biggest day on the classical musical calendar. Classic 100 is here! This year ABC Classic wanted to know Australia's favourite piece of piano music, with tens of thousands of you sending in your votes. Join as we count down the top 45 songs as chosen by ABC Classic listeners. How to listen:

ABC News
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
Quiz: How many of these piano pop culture moments do you know?
How well do you know your pianos in pop culture? From fashion to film test your knowledge as we celebrate one of the world's most popular instruments, the piano. And if you need more piano in your life, follow the Classic 100: Piano countdown this weekend, counting down Australia's top 100 pieces for the piano on ABC Classic and the ABC listen app. Stream The Piano free on ABC iview. Counting down Australia's favourite piano music in the Classic 100: Piano on ABC Classic and the ABC listen app.

ABC News
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
ABC welcomes Philip Noyce as Head of ABC Classic and ABC Jazz
The ABC is delighted to announce that Philip Noyce will join the organisation as the new Head of ABC Classic and ABC Jazz. Philip is one of the most accomplished classical music executives in the industry, with over 15 years' experience across the classical and jazz sectors. He joins the ABC from Classic FM - the UK's most popular classical music station, where he served as Managing Editor and helped shape a service that reaches over 4.7 million listeners each week. Philip's career has also seen him serve as a judge for the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards and the Royal Television Society Awards. He is a talented cellist and the author of a series of acclaimed classical music guides for children. 'It's a fantastic moment to be joining the ABC,' Philip said. 'Especially as it invests in two of its iconic music networks: Classic and Jazz. The opportunity to lead these stations was irresistible, and it's a real honour to step into this role—shaping programming that's distinctive, engaging, and truly audience-focused. 'With ABC Classic set to mark its 50th anniversary next year, there's an incredible legacy to celebrate—and exciting new chapters still to be written. I'm thrilled to now be part of that journey. 'I'm also looking forward to forging new creative partnerships in Australia and championing everything that makes their classical and jazz scenes so vibrant. I can't wait to get started.' Philip joins a strengthened leadership team for the brands alongside recently appointed Content Director Sascha Kelly, whose career spans includes senior roles with Musica Viva. Sascha brings a deep knowledge of Australia's classical music scene and has already introduced a renewed focus on editorial craft across programming and presentation. Together, Philip and Sascha bring complementary strengths that will shape a new chapter for ABC Classic and ABC Jazz. With ABC Classic turning 50 in 2026, this is a unique opportunity to celebrate its legacy and deepen its relevance and impact for Australian audiences. ABC Director of Audio, Ben Latimer, said: 'Philip brings not only a deep understanding of the audience and the artform, but a strong creative energy that will help lead ABC Classic and ABC Jazz into their next chapter. 'With ABC Classic's 50th anniversary on the horizon, we have a rare opportunity to honour its legacy while setting a renewed creative agenda. I'm thrilled to welcome Philip to the ABC and alongside Sascha and our broader leadership team, I'm confident we're building the right foundation to take ABC Classic and Jazz into an exciting future.' Philip will join the ABC in the coming months and will be part of the ABC Audio leadership team, reporting to the Director Audio. Media Contact Laura Todd, ABC Communications