Classic FM has teamed up with Sue Perkins, one of the nation’s best loved broadcasters, comedians and travel presenters, to host a new four-part series Race to Antarctica with HX – Hurtigruten Expeditions.
In the programme, which launched on Friday, Sue takes everyone on a fascinating musical expedition from the UK to Antarctica, exploring cities, countries and continents, while discovering classical music connections along the way.
And for the next three Friday evenings, listeners will continue travel with Sue through iconic destinations – many visited on HX’s voyages, from the British Isles and Europe, Greenland, the Northwest Passage, Alaska, the USA, South America and, finally, the magical and other worldly destination of Antarctica.
As Sue ventures south, she will delve into the rich cultural heritage of each region, discovering classical masterpieces that originated in or were inspired by these truly breathtaking destinations, such as Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture (Fingal’s Cave), Danzon No.2 by Mexican-born Arturo Marquez and Vaughan Williams’ Symphony No.7 (Sinfonia Antarctica).
Perkins said: “I am thrilled to be part of the Classic FM family and embark on this new series which perfectly combines two of my great passions – classical music and travel. I look forward to joining with Classic FM’s well-travelled audience as we embark on this musical voyage together.”
Suzanne Hall, European Marketing Director at HX, said: “Sue’s spirit of curiosity and adventure aligns perfectly with our values at HX, making this collaboration a natural fit. This series is the perfect way to take listeners on the musical version of our expeditions.”
- Race to Antarctica with HX – Hurtigruten Expeditions is broadcast every Friday at 9pm on Classic FM.