Classic FM Chart - John Brunning's top 30 predictions

26 October 2012, 11:34 | Updated: 19 December 2016, 16:24

"I think we’ll see some more high-flying new entries this coming Sunday, one of which is likely to be ‘Strictly Strauss, the Waltz Album’. This compilation of Viennese favourites could prove a strong seller as it rides the wave of interest created by Andre Rieu. And speaking of Mr. Rieu, I know some people are a bit ‘sniffy’ about the fiddling Dutchman, but you can’t argue with his sales success, which speaks for itself. "

"One of the things I like best about presenting the Classic FM Chart is the surprises it throws up every week. Who’d have predicted Russell Watson – let’s call him the voice from Salford – would be dethroned by the voice from Assisi, Friar Alessandro? But so it was last Sunday, and given the big campaign Decca have mounted to bring the singing monk to the public’s notice, I don’t expect the Friar to be a flash in the pan.

And remember the Classic FM Chart is the only one that measures ALL classical music sales; that’s to say CDs & downloads, so it’s the only one that matters. And on that immodest note, I’ll sign off and look forward to seeing you on Sunday afternoon at 5!

John Brunning.