Summary: Presented by Tom Service John Dowland - composer, diplomat, spy and possible traitor was born 450 years ago in 1563. This week Tom explores the life and music of a man who was one of the greatest composers of Elizabethan England. He is joined by counter-tenor and Dowland fan Iestyn Davies and Dowland expert Peter Holman to explore the man and his music. Japanese-American violinist Midori has been involved in music education projects in schools and hospitals since she was in her early 20s. Now in her 40s she talks to Tom about her continuing passion for education. Critic Tim Carter and authour Howard Pollock make the case that the works of American composer, lyricist and political activist Marc Blitzstein should be better known and Tom is joined by Oliver Knussen to celebrate the life and work of composer Richard Rodney Bennett who died at Christmas.
