Classic FM are releasing on their own label the latest album from Australian-born surfing guitarist Craig Ogden after being inundated with an unprecedented number of calls and emails from its listeners whenever a track from a past album by the classical guitarist was played. In response to this clamour Classic FM decided to bow to public demand and now proudly present their first instrumentalist signing to their label.

Released on Monday 5th July, the album comprises 20 tracks, including several new versions of numbers that feature in Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. All make an ideal soundtrack for al fresco dining or, through earphones, for lounging in the park, by a swimming pool or on the beach.

They range from the haunting, shimmering Memories of the Alhambra, composed for guitar by Francisco Tárrega, to arrangements of romantic piano classics, such as Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and Debussy’s Clair de lune; from traditional songs such as Scarborough Fair and Waltzing Matilda to Leonard Cohen’s pop anthem Hallelujah and the throbbing theme from the film Pirates of the Caribbean. In addition, Craig Ogden: The Guitarist introduces several brand new tracks.

Never mind the possible effects of economic uncertainty on your holiday plans…it’s time to invest in some serene summer listening that will take you from Andalucia’s exotic Alhambra to Australia’s sun-scorched outback by way of the buccaneering Caribbean: the new Classic FM album Craig Ogden: The Guitarist.

Craig has played on a number of high profile film scores including Hugh Grant’s Notting Hill as well as providing the playing for Rosemary and Thyme the popular murder mystery series.  He has also worked with Lesley Garrett, Joshua Bell and on the film score for ‘The Mighty’ starring Sharon Stone.

Craig has worked closely with his mentor John Williams and has been seen by most observers as Williams’ successor while his already substantial recorded catalogue has been widely praised, including from no less a figure than the great Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo who expressed his admiration for the Australian’s recording of the unforgettable Concierto de Aranjuez. As Rodrigo’s daughter wrote to the guitarist: “’My father enjoyed your interpretation immensely … this recording has confirmed your position among the greatest guitarists.”

Listen to Craigs new album

To celebrate the release of Craig Ogden`s  latest album The Guatarist,  FunkyFogey has teamed up with the UK’s largest national commercial radio station Classic FM, to offer one lucky member the chance to win:

• A pair of tickets to an intimate recital by Craig in the Classic FM building in Leicester Square on the 17th July at 5pm
• Meet Craig after the concert  
• Signed personalised copy of Craigs new album
• Classic FM goodie bag
• Tour round Classic FM

For your chance to win all this enter this months Music quiz!