Recording of the week: Last of the Giants

This week’s selection comes from Jowan Collier, Acquisitions Support Officer. This week the last episode of Game of Thrones is broadcast to the world, in what is sure to be a bloody, spectacular, nail biting finale to the fantasy programme. To celebrate this, and not give away any crucial spoilers,…




Mother Carey’s Chickens

Cheryl Tipp, Curator of Wildlife & Environmental Sounds writes: In 19th century coastal folklore, the harsh and unforgiving nature of the sea was often personified by the cruel sea witch Mother Carey. Carey was said to wreak havoc on the ocean waves, conjuring up devastating storms that would destroy any…




Recording of the week: Gieseking and Bohm

This week’s selection comes from Jonathan Summers, Curator of Classical Music Recordings. The early recordings of German conductor Karl Bohm often have a sprightly character and when he accompanied pianist Walter Gieseking, the resulting Piano Concerto No. 4 by Beethoven is a revelation. The famous opening statement by the solo…




Hearing the Dead – Florence Nightingale’s voice

Sunday 12th May sees the 199th birthday of Florence Nightingale. To celebrate, Mike Esbester and Natalie Pithers share their experiences of exploring history with children, with particular reference to Florence’s story.




Recording of the week: Peter Kennedy recording of Sheila Gallagher, Donegal 1953

This week’s selection comes from Dr Janet Topp Fargion, Lead Curator of World and Traditional Music. Peter Kennedy made this recording of Sheila Gallagher in Middle Dere, Donegal in 1953 – she was 90 years old at the time. She tells of learning songs from her father and his friends,…