ABC Classic 100

to reveal the nation’s favourite composer

this weekend

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This weekend, ABC Classic will unveil the nation’s favourite composer, as it broadcasts the ultimate classical countdown. With a record number of almost 128,000 votes cast for over 500 different composers, this year’s Classic 100 has been the most hotly contested classical music poll in Australian history.

On Saturday 8 June and Sunday 9 June, ABC Classic presenters including Ed Ayres, Greta Bradman, Mairi Nicolson and Russell Torrance will bring the countdown to the nation. Special guests include a range of living composers, Australia’s leading conductor Benjamin Northey, music-lovers and ABC Classic listeners, who will each share what their favourite composers mean to them.

Toby Chadd, Content Manager of ABC Classic, says: “We’ve seen thousands of Australians casting votes and engaging in passionate debate about their favourite composers. So many people have voted as a way of championing the composers they love and showing their gratitude for the music that has made such a difference to their lives. Over the last few weeks we’ve heard thousands of stories that have been poignant, hilarious and life-affirming. Clear your diary for 8 and 9 June: this is going to be an incredible celebration of the music we all love.”

Here’s some stats from the tally room to whet your appetite:

  • Eight composers will make their Classic 100 debuts this year

  • 7 of the top 100 were born in the 1840s – making it the most popular decade

  • There are 18 living composers in the top 100

  • Pisces is the most popular star sign, with 14 composers; Leo is the least, with only 3

  • Over half of the top 100 have surnames beginning with B,P,R or S

  • Australians are the fifth most common nationality to appear in the countdown; the most common nationality is German

The countdown starts this Saturday 8 June at 9am AEST and wraps up Sunday 9 June 4pm AEST, followed by a special program to celebrate the winning composer. Find out the full schedule for your local time zone here.

You can listen on your radio, the ABC Listen app and online at abc.net.au/classic.

Want to get warmed up for the weekend? Have a go of our Classic 100 Composer tongue twister.

A deluxe 8 CD boxset featuring tracks from all 100 composers will be available after the countdown. Pre-order now.

ABC Classic: Life’s Better With Music

#Classic100

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AMNPLIFY – DB