BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

BBC Radio 4 FM

Radio 4 (FM)

Opening the Boxes: a Soprano's Secrets

Documentaries

Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Factual: Life Stories

Music: Classical: Opera

BBC Radio 4 Extra - Opening the Boxes: a Soprano's Secrets

Michael White uncovers the life of the soprano singer Jennifer Vyvyan.

Michael White explores the career of the British soprano singer Jennifer Vyvyan, who died in 1974. From 2011. 

What happened when music critic Michael White was asked to look at some storage boxes, packed with memorabilia of the soprano Jennifer Vyvyan?  

For several months, he and her son Jonathan Crown delved through them and uncovered the fascinating story of one of Britain's most dazzling classical music stars, who died in 1974. 

Michael reveals his discoveries, from the dramatic roles Jennifer pioneered for Benjamin Britten to her definitive recordings of Handel, made with Sir Thomas Beecham and Sir Adrian Boult. 

The singer’s aristocratic roots are revealed, plus a controversial marriage, her championing of new music and the baroque revival - as well as a lifelong struggle against a fatal disease. 

There are also archive recordings of Vyvan herself, and the recollections of her contemporaries April Cantelo, Steuart Bedford and John Copley. 
Enjoy one of the most golden voices of the post-war era of British music.

Producer: Alyn Shipton

A Unique production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in August 2011.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Opening the Boxes: a Soprano's Secrets

Genres

Formats

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4