BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday 29 December 2011 was guest-edited by Oxford Philomusica's Vice President Sir Victor Blank and featured an item about the orchestra in the context of 'Altruism in the arts'.

BBC Radio Four stated "Today's guest editor Sir Victor Blank also believes in philanthropy and is a strong supporter of the Oxford Philomusica orchestra, long independent of regular government funding, and sees it as a model to follow." Music Director Marios Papadopoulos and Concert Master Natalia Lomeiko explained why the orchestra relies on sponsors and donors to survive, and Oxford Philomusica supporters Sir Anthony and Lady Kenny and Sue Ashtiany described how they feel that more can be done by individuals to support the Arts in the UK. Their comments were complemented by excerpts from Oxford Philomusica's recent performance of Handel's Messiah with New College Choir.

Listen to the discussion here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_9669000/9669052.stm