John Humphrys Joins Classic FM To Host New Sunday Afternoon Programme
Charlotte Hawkins To Present Smooth Classics At Seven As Classic FM Announces New Sunday Schedule For 2020
Classic FM, the UK’s most popular classical music station, has unveiled its new-look Sunday schedule for 2020, which will see John Humphrys join its star weekend line-up.
From 5th January, one of Britain’s best-known broadcasters will present his own Sunday afternoon show from 3pm to 5pm. In a change to the radio programmes that John is renowned for, each week he will share his own stories and reflections on his favourite composers and their music.
John becomes a permanent member of Classic FM’s weekend team – which includes Moira Stuart, Alexander Armstrong, Bill Turnbull, Alan Titchmarsh and Myleene Klass – following a highly successful week presenting the station’s More Music Breakfast show in October, while regular presenter Tim Lihoreau was on holiday. John’s Sunday afternoon programme is the first of a number of exciting new projects that Global has planned for the broadcaster.
“How could I resist a music station like Classic FM after a lifetime on the news beat! It’s proof positive that there really is a life after politics. And a rather more inspiring one at that.”
John Humphrys, Classic FM Presenter
As part of the refreshed weekend schedule for 2020, Charlotte Hawkins will host a new Sunday night edition of Smooth Classics at Seven, moving from her previous afternoon timeslot (3pm to 5pm). Now celebrating two years on Classic FM, Charlotte will present a selection of laidback music, specially chosen to provide a moment of calm and relaxation before the start of a new week. Her popular Young Classical Star feature will continue in her new show, where she shines the spotlight on up-and-coming artists.
“I can’t wait to start the New Year presenting a new show on Classic FM. Smooth Classics at Seven will be the perfect way to unwind and enjoy those last hours of the weekend, with some of the most relaxing classical music you will ever hear.
I’m also really pleased to be continuing my Young Classical Star feature on my new programme, which I first launched when I joined Classic FM two years ago. I’m passionate about championing up-and-coming classical artists, and I’m excited to be able to bring some more fantastic young musicians to you in 2020.”
Charlotte Hawkins, Classic FM Presenter
David Mellor’s Sunday evening show moves to a new timeslot of 5pm to 7pm, with familiar favourites and off-the-beaten-track discoveries. He will begin 2020 with a mini-series of music that provides the perfect antidote to the January blues. His show will replace The Classic FM Chart, presented by John Brunning, who will continue to host Classic FM’s popular weekday drivetime programme (5pm to 7pm) and Smooth Classics at Seven (7pm to 8pm).
“As we launch our new Sunday schedule on Classic FM, it is fantastic to welcome John Humphrys to our weekend line-up. We had a hugely positive reaction from our listeners when John guest-presented Classic FM’s More Music Breakfast in October, so we are really pleased he has made the UK’s most popular classical music station his home.
With Charlotte Hawkins hosting our new Sunday evening edition of Smooth Classics at Seven and a new timeslot for the ever-popular David Mellor, we look forward to welcoming more listeners to Classic FM in 2020.”
Sam Jackson, Classic FM’s Senior Managing Editor
Classic FM is available across the UK on 100-102 FM, DAB digital radio and TV, at ClassicFM.com and on the Classic FM and Global Player apps.
