Famous names from the choral world are to present BBC Radio 3’s 'The Choir' for six special programmes beginning on Sunday February 3, 2013. Suzi Digby, Paul Mealor, Ken Burton, Harry Christophers, Mary King and Eric Whitacre will each explore different aspects of choral music in programmes featuring live performances and recordings, interviews and discussions. The six experts replace Aled Jones, who leaves Radio 3 after seven years as presenter of 'The Choir'.

On Sunday February 3, conductor and charity founder Suzi Digby will explore youth choirs; followed by composer Paul Mealor on writing for special occasions on February 10; composer and conductor Ken Burton on the influence of gospel singing on choral music on February 17; The Sixteen director Harry Christophers on sacred choral music on February 24; performer and coach Mary King on links between folk and choral music on March 10; and composer Eric Whitacre and his Eric Whitacre Singers in a concert featuring his own music on March 17. 

‘I am delighted that BBC Radio 3, the home of classical music, is welcoming these six special figures in the choral world to "The Choir",’ said BBC Radio 3 controller Roger Wright. ‘The programme’s unique place in choral music broadcasting will be enhanced by their authoritative and enthusiastic presentation.’