Radio 3 Controller: BBC Singers have ‘long-term future’

Sam Jackson, Controller of BBC Radio 3, has insisted disbanding the BBC Singers is not on the broadcaster’s agenda.

In his first interview since becoming Controller in April, Jackson told The Times that the BBC does not intend to renege on its u-turn on plans to close down the professional choir.

“We are exploring some really exciting plans for the BBC Singers. We’re working on on-air plans for them right into next year. The BBC Singers have a long-term future,” Jackson said.

His comments follow claims from the Musician’s Union late last month that alternative funding models were being considered for the choir.

Speaking to the Times, Jackson confirmed discussions are confidential, but “happening at pace”.

“They are very meaningful, and I wouldn’t simply be sitting here saying that to you now if there wasn’t a lot of substance,” he added.

When asked if a new funding model could mean BBC Singers does more commercial work, Jackson replied: “there could be elements of that, but it can’t be anything that reduces the distinctiveness of who they are and what they do.”