Radio 2 to record special concert at the Guildhall
As part of D-day 80, Radio
2 is marking the occasion with a special Sunday Night is Music Night concert to be recorded at Portsmouth Guildhall on Monday, June 3, hosted by Vernon Kay.
On D-day itself, Vernon will be broadcasting his Radio 2 show from Normandy, with Jeremy Vine broadcasting his show from Portsmouth.
Commissioning executive Laura Busson said: “As D-day was such an important moment in our history, it’s fitting that Radio 2 commemorates its 80th anniversary, giving listeners an opportunity to remember and pay tribute in their own way. Vernon and Jeremy’s shows will both broadcast from pivotal D-day locations, and Vernon will present what I’m sure will be an incredibly moving concert from Portsmouth Guildhall.”
Vernon said: “It’s important we never forget and always honour the bravery and sacrifices made by those brave soldiers 80 years ago on D-day, so
I’m incredibly proud to be broadcasting my show from Normandy and presenting this commemorative concert on Radio 2.”
The Portsmouth Guildhall concert, D-day 80: Commemorating the Normandy Landings, features the combined musical forces of the BBC Concert Orchestra and the BBC Big Band performing some of the best loved and most enduring music of that era.
The concert will feature classic film scores, as well as songs made famous by Glenn Miller’s United States Army Air Force Band. The concert also features guests, Vanessa Haynes, nine-piece vocal ensemble The D-day Darlings, and singer/pianist Kate Garner.
This special edition of Sunday Night is Music Night concert will be broadcast on Radio 2 on Sunday, June 9 at 8pm, and made available on BBC Sounds from June 6.