Visionaries

Visionaries is a stimulating, interactive seven-part series that debates the merits of some of the most innovative and iconic composers from the field of classical music, examining the geniuses behind some of the greatest compositions.Presented by BBC Radio 4’s Francine Stock, inspirational composers from different eras will be pitted against each other in the quest to find the supreme classical music visionary.From Bach and Handel to Mozart and Beethoven, each composer has a dedicated and well known advocate, arguing why their chosen icon is the most visionary and has had the most impact in the field.The final programme will be a reprise of all the featured composers including a discussion amongst the advocates about their chosen composer and the winner will be revealed.The series, in association with Credit Suisse, launches on BBC World News on 30 August 2008 with a special introductory programme.Introductory episode - 31st August, 2008Episode one - 6th September, 2008Bach vs HandelAdvocates: Tim Minchin (Bach), Alexander Armstrong (Handel)Episode two - 13th September, 2008Mozart vs BeethovenAdvocates: Michael Morpurgo (Mozart), Evelyn Glennie (Beethoven)Episode three - 20th September, 2008Chopin vs VerdiAdvocates: Clemency Burton-Hill (Chopin), Sophie Ellis-Bextor (Verdi)Episode four - 27th September, 2008Shostakovich vs TakemitsuAdvocates: Joan Wasser (Shostakovich), Noriko Ogawa (Takemitsu)Episode five - 4th October, 2008Glass vs BoulezAdvocates: Dennis Russell Davies (Philip Glass), Courtney Pine (Boulez)Final Programme - 25th October, 2008