Matthew Crawford

This Symphony was famously given its Leningrad première in August 1942 by starving, yet defiant players, assembled under the banner of the Leningrad Radio Orchestra, during the Siege of Leningrad… Audio

These much-loved folk-song arrangements are introduced by Matthew Crawford. Audio

Gustav Holst's seven movement work was composed during WW1 and needs a large orchestra plus chorus of women's voices. The composer's own favourite movement was Saturn - the Bringer of Old Age… Audio

In his last symphony, Prokofiev aims for simplicity and nostalgia, but is persuaded to provide an alternative ending to impress the Soviet authorities. Introduced by Matthew Crawford. Audio

Prokofiev conducted the premiere of his Fifth Symphony in 1944 and within months it was also being performed in America and the composer was on the cover of TIME magazine. Introduced by Matthew… Audio

An illustrated interview with Matthew Crawford. Audio

The third of three programmes in which Matthew Crawford navigates the turbulent confluence of music and politics in 20th century America. Bob Dylan declares that the times are a-changin' - but to… Audio

The second of three programmes in which Matthew Crawford navigates the turbulent confluence of music and politics in 20th century America. A national anthem at last, music for war, Strange Fruit in… Audio

Matthew Crawford explores the work of this prolific American composer, born in 1937. Audio

Matthew Crawford navigates the turbulent confluence of music and politics in 20th century America. Audio

Brett Dean (b 1961), in conversation with Matthew Crawford. Audio

One of the major events of 2010 was the completion of the Auckland Town Hall organ restoration. Matthew Crawford talks to those involved in the project. Audio