When did Classic FM officially launch?
Classic FM officially launched at 06:00 on Monday the 7th of September 1992. Test transmissions began in 1992 using birdsong to gauge audience reaction before this official opening.
Questions about Classic FM (UK)
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who owns Classic FM now and when did ownership change?
Global Media & Entertainment currently owns Classic FM after acquiring it following regulatory changes. The station was originally formed by GWR Group and Time Warner with an exemption allowing foreign ownership beyond the initial 25% limit.
Where are the current studios for Classic FM located?
Current studios occupy the second floor of 30 Leicester Square in central London since March 2006. Mark Griffiths broadcast the first live programme from these premises on the 26th of March 2006.
What is the history of the Classic FM Hall of Fame number one spot?
Max Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 1 held the number one spot until 2001 when Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 took over. The Lark Ascending dominated from 2007 through 2010 while O Holy Night has secured victory almost every year since 2001 for the Nation's Favourite Christmas Carol.
When did Classic FM switch to DAB+ transmission quality?
On the 2nd of January 2024 the station switched transmission quality from 128 kbps stereo DAB to 64 kbps stereo DAB+. This change followed technical specifications that evolved significantly over three decades.