There seem to be regular requests for recommendations for particular pieces of music. For classical, 'BBC Music Magazine' and 'Gramophone' both speak with authority; and 'HiFi News' reviews more widely, and gives as much weight to sound quality as performance. 'Gramophone Classical Good CD Guide' is an absolute mine of information, and includes composer biographical extracts from 'The Concise Grove Dictionary of Music'.

BBC Radio 3 reviews new releases every Saturday, starting at 9.00. At 9.30 there is 'Building a Library' which reviews all recordings of a particular piece and plays extracts. Their final recommendation is also listed cumulatively on the Radio 3 website (although they often tend to favour hiss and scratch ie. old recordings). All the above also include music/opera DVDs.

For live music the lunchtime concerts often offer stunning sound and are a good way to become acquainted with performers and composers. 'In Tune' Monday -Friday, 17.00-19.00, mixes recordings, live music and interviews. The sound quality is invariably outstanding.

Asa Post