The week beginning 5 November 2012

Monday: Composer of the Week - Franz Schmidt (1874-1939)

Erica Challis looks at the life and work of this lesser-known Austrian composer.

Wednesday: By Royal Command

Brian Kay presents two programmes of music written for royal occasions in the United Kingdom (1)

Thursday: How will opera survive?

John Drummond presents four programmes considering The Future of Opera in the contemporary world of mass popular culture, digital technology and global financial crisis. He draws on results from a current research project called Sustainable Futures for Musical Cultures based at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music

(2) The future for opera performers (RNZ)

Friday: The Critic's Chair

Robert Johnson reviews recent releases.