BBC Radio 4 UK theme to be released commercially

The controversy over the plans to drop the five-minute medley of patriotic tunes that opens BBC Radio 4 each morning has taken a new turn.

Musician Mike Flowers says he's producing a commercial release of the medley by the Royal Ballet Symphonia, that will be available on CD and download before the end of this month.

Mr Flowers says he has the backing of Ingrid Spiegl, widow of the composer. However, he needs to record a new version because the BBC has copyright of the current recording. It will be accompanied by "Sailing By", the tune that introduces the late-night shipping forecast on Radio 4. Proceeds from sales will go towards the Light Music Society.

The BBC has declined to comment.

Source: Media Network

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