SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2025

SAT 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m0024qy7)
Escape from the rain

Drift off to a mix of rainy day sounds and restful classical music. Doze off to immersive sounds of light winds and hypnotic downpour - a perfect soundtrack to help guide you to a peaceful state of slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


SAT 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0028hwk)
Classical music for reflection and relaxation

Let soothing classical music be your companion on a journey of relaxation. This collection of peaceful melodies invites stillness and tranquility, perfect for moments of reflection or simply unwinding after a busy day.

Featuring works by J.S. Bach, Gustav Holst, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, as well as contemporary voices such as Hania Rani, Max Richter and Debbie Wiseman.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


SAT 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qv7)
Get set for the day with uplifting music

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring uplifting and enriching melodies from Rachmaninov, Florence Price, and Frederick Delius, this episode explores the joy of getting lost on a countryside walk. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explains why some music gives us a shiver down our spines.


SAT 12:00 Piano Focus (m0028hwm)
Reflective piano pieces to usher in calm

Immerse yourself in a contemplative soundscape with this carefully curated piano mix, where past and present intertwine. The evocative reveries of Claude Debussy and Amy Beach meet the modern lyricism of Missy Mazzoli, Elena Kats-Chernin and Christine Ott. Expect cinematic minimalism from British newcomer Daniel Blumberg, ethereal tones from Harold Budd and quiet introspection from artists like Rikuto Fujimoto and Shida Shahabi. With music that drifts between tradition and gentle experimentation, this selection invites you to pause, reflect and lose yourself in its immersive textures.

Produced by Áine Devaney
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


SAT 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0024r15)
Block out the noise with calming classical music

Take a moment for yourself as you enjoy restful classical music combined with beautiful soundscapes from the natural world.

Featuring a host of orchestral and piano favourites from Gabriel Fauré, Maurice Ravel, and Claude Debussy, and gorgeous harmonies from Eleanor Daley, Christopher H. Harris, and Ivo Antognini.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


SAT 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025d69)
Be mesmerised by the sonic worlds of Drive and Wolf Hall

Escape into a world of immersive soundtracks with film fanatic Edith Bowman. Including Drive by Cliff Martinez, Camille Dalmais' Emilia Perez and Kris Bowers' score for The Wild Robot.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind


SAT 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0024r01)
Soundtrack your evening with relaxing classical music

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.

This episode features a rich blend of music from the likes of Fanny Mendelssohn, Hania Rani and Elgar – plus some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on a small and meaningful way to prepare for rest.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


SAT 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qyp)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Soothing soundtracks ft. Atli Örvarsson

Music has magical powers. It can tell stories, make us feel emotions, and transport us to distant worlds, simply through playing a certain combination of notes. In this episode of Ultimate Calm, Ólafur Arnalds celebrates the art of the soundtrack - playing some of his favourite selections from the world of film, television and video games. We’ll be transported to far-off planets, dive beneath the waves and dabble in time-travel, with soundtracks from Hildur Guðnadóttir, Jerskin Fendrix and Andrew Prahlow.

Plus we’ll hear from someone with a great deal of experience in the area of soundtracks, the Bafta-winning Icelandic composer Atli Örvarsson. Atli shares his musical safe haven, the track that brings him ultimate calm, a reflective, thought-provoking piece that helps him disconnect from daily worries, be still and breathe.

Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind


SAT 22:00 Night Tracks (m0027vgv)
Immersive music for late night listening

Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


SAT 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m0028hf6)
Music to help you get a good night’s sleep

Let go of the day and allow yourself to unwind and settle into sleep with the help of peaceful classical music made by UK-based BBC Introducing composers and artists, alongside the sounds of recent weather reports for coastal stations from the Shipping Forecast, and night atmosphere recordings from the French countryside.

Produced by Cat Gough

A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast."

SUNDAY 16 MARCH 2025

SUN 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m0024qyr)
Float along the river

Drift off to a mix of calming river sounds and restful classical music. Doze off to immersive sounds of birds chirping and the comforting sound of water flowing down a light stream - a perfect soundtrack to help guide you to a peaceful state of slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


SUN 06:00 Mindful Mix (m00287nh)
Meditative classical sounds for a positive state of mind

Discover the soothing power of classical music with this selection of peaceful tunes and soundscapes from the natural world. Perfect for unwinding and finding stillness, these pieces will help guide you into a space of calm and relaxation.

Featuring tranquil compositions by Claude Debussy, Johannes Brahms, and Ludwig van Beethoven, alongside the delicate melodies of Yann Tiersen, Caroline Shaw, Rachel Portman, Hayato Sumino, and more.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


SUN 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qvz)
Ease into your day with welcoming harmonies

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring soothing and nourishing melodies from Clara Schumann, JS Bach and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor – plus learn if listening to classical music can make you more intelligent, and Sian goes on a walk to explores how embracing the seasons can be beneficial for our health.


SUN 12:00 Piano Focus (m0028zvt)
Reflective piano pieces to centre the mind

Immerse yourself in this intimate journey into the world of piano music. From the delicate melodies of William Alwyn and the mercurial keyboard shimmerings of Maurice Ravel to refined contemporary work by the likes of Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch, Eydís Evensen and Sophia Jani.

Produced by Áine Devaney
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers, just ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus.


SUN 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0024qvd)
Gentle harmonies to help you relax

Take a moment to centre yourself with this collection of soothing classical music.

This mix features building melodies from Herbert Howells, Will Todd and Rebecca Dale, warm orchestral tones from Frederick Delius and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and mindful solo piano from H. Leslie Adams and Karen Tanaka.

Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


SUN 17:00 The Music & Meditation Podcast (m0028zvw)
Series 4

Wind down for the night with Niall Breslin

Izzy and Niall Breslin look at how we can make mindful choices for a more peaceful and fulfilling evening routine. Niall is a podcast host, author, composer and BBC Radio 3 Unwind presenter, who leads a guided meditation to help us reclaim our evenings for some quality relaxation.

The music that soundtracks Niall's guided meditation was composed by Piers Connor Kennedy and recorded by the BBC Singers exclusively for this episode.

If you’re brand new to meditation or you've tried it before, this show is the perfect place to pick it up from!

Music you'll hear in this episode includes:
Beethoven: Piano Sonata No.23 in F minor (2nd movement)
Piers Connor Kennedy: Wind Down for the Evening
Handel: Xerxes (Largo)
Albeniz: Granada


SUN 17:30 Classical Mixtape (m0027vkm)
Classical music for focus and inspiration

Take some time for yourself with a relaxing 30-minute mix of reflective classical music. This episode of Classical Mixtape opens with the piercing vocal harmonies of Pergolesi's Stabat Mater, followed by poignant solo piano music by Matthew Bourne and George's Walker's meditative Lyric for Strings. Next, we hear two Nordic classical cover versions: Víkingur Ólafsson's quietly uplifting arrangement of music by JS Bach, followed by the Danish String Quartet's reworking of a traditional folk song from the Shetland Islands. Finally, a beautifully tranquil choral movement from Brahm's A German Requiem.

Producer: Christina Kenny


SUN 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m00255b9)
Switch off with calming classical music

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.
This episode features a rich blend of music from the likes of John Tavener, Rosey Chan and Víkingur Ólafsson. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with mindfulness expert Izzy Judd, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on the soothing power of listening to the radio.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


SUN 21:00 Soundwaves (m0028zvz)
An immersive world of new music

Afrodeutsche hosts an hour of escapist and immersive new music from the UK’s brightest contemporary composers and performers.

Featuring music from Manchester-based composer Rachael Philip, violinist Jeremy Birchall and pianist Alexis Ffrench. Plus, music from BBC Introducing emerging artists.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Soundwaves.


SUN 22:00 Night Tracks (m0027vll)
Dissolve into a nocturnal soundworld

Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


SUN 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m0024qvr)
Fall soundly asleep with dreamy classical music

Slip into slumber with the sleepy tones of the Shipping Forecast, paired with calming classical compositions from BBC Introducing, alongside field recordings of gentle rivers and more.

Produced by Cat Gough
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Sounds

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast."

MONDAY 17 MARCH 2025

MON 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m0024qzb)
Roam amidst the mountain mist

Drift away with a mix of natural sounds and gentle classical music. Immerse yourself in the fresh alpine air at the peak of the mountain - with composers Bach, Brahms and Bizet lulling you towards peaceful slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search Sleep Tracks on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes. To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Sleep Tracks.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


MON 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0024qxq)
Chilled classical music for rest and rejuvenation

Take a moment to step away from your cares with this calming mix of serene classical sounds.

Featuring music by Gustav Mahler, Anne Boyd and Edward Elgar, plus rich and rejuvenating harmonies by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Reynaldo Hahn and Robert Nathaniel Dett.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


MON 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qwj)
Embrace the day with soothing classical music

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring uplifting and enriching melodies from Max Richter, Mozart and Amy Beach – plus Professor Catherine Loveday explores why some tunes get stuck in our heads, and Sian takes a walk and reflects on how birdsong fits into our daily lives.


MON 12:00 Piano Focus (m00287q4)
Flowing piano music for peace of mind

Find peace of mind amidst the noise of everyday life with this mixtape of soothing piano music. Featuring timeless classics from Eric Coates, Mel Bonis and Frédéric Chopin, alongside music by contemporary British composers including Tanya Ekanayaka, Polly Carter and Barry Hudson-Taylor.

Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


MON 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0028hf4)
Lose yourself in classical calm

Indulge in this collection of relaxing music and lose yourself in a sea of classical calm.

Featuring established favourites from Edward Elgar, Maurice Ravel, and Ludovico Einaudi, alongside hidden gems by Judith Weir, Edward Margetson and Henrique Oswald.

Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


MON 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025knm)
Transport yourself away to the music of Star Trek and The Village

Escape into a world of immersive soundtracks with film fanatic Edith Bowman. Featuring The Village by James Newton Howard, Dustin O’Halloran's Lion and The Lightkeepers by Pinar Toprak.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind


MON 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0024r1f)
Relax to a classical evening soundtrack

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.

This episode features a rich blend of music from the likes of Philip Glass, Holst and Mars Smith – plus some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on a simple but effective way to prepare for a restful night.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


MON 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qz6)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Music in the mountains ft. Jordan Rakei

Escape into the embrace of the mountains, with Icelandic pianist and composer Ólafur Arnalds and a selection of music to bring you perspective and peace.

Ólafur reflects on the mountains near Reykjavik that he heads to when the noise of the world gets to be too much, and the feeling of calm that one can get from looking out at a horizon. Inspired by that feeling, he plays a selection of music including Rikuto Fujimoto, Chihei Hatakeyama and Ellen Reid.

Plus we’ll visit the musical safe haven of the singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jordan Rakei. Jordan shares a track that brings him ultimate calm, giving him goosebumps every time he listens.

Produced by Kit Callin & Derick Armah
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind


MON 22:00 Night Tracks (m0028tsk)
Bewitching sounds for after dark

Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


MON 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m0028zxb)
Soothing music to ease you into sleep

Ease into sleep with the help of relaxing classical and ambient music from BBC Introducing, coastal weather reports from around the UK courtesy of Radio 4’s the Shipping Forecast and the sounds of rain falling on leaves in a woodland in the Cotswolds.

Produced by Cat Gough
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3Unwind

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast."

TUESDAY 18 MARCH 2025

TUE 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m0024r1l)
Dive into ocean depths

Dive into the deepest sleep with a mix of subaquatic sounds and ebbing classical music. Doze to whale song and hypnotic waves - a perfect soundtrack to help guide you to a peaceful state of slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


TUE 06:00 Mindful Mix (m002812w)
Peaceful classical tunes for new horizons

Unwind from the busy day and make space for moments of calm, with this selection of peaceful classical music and nature-filled soundscapes.

Featuring twinkling piano melodies from Alexandra Stréliski, Rosey Chan, and Sophie Hutchings. And glowing strings and vocal textures from Florence Beatrice Price, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Ludwig van Beethoven and more.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


TUE 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qx7)
Focus for the morning with stress-busting music

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring uplifting and peaceful melodies from Fauré, Caroline Shaw, and Samuel Barber. Plus we learn why sad music might just lift our mood, and Sian explores the delights of walking barefoot.


TUE 12:00 Piano Focus (m0028zxd)
Melodies to unlock creativity

Tune out the chatter and hone your focus with this flowing soundtrack of melodic piano music. The selection features iconic British composers including Ralph Vaughan Williams and Lennox Berkeley alongside contemporary pieces from Rosey Chan with ‘A song for Nina (Simone)’ and Polly Carter's new release, Light Shines On The Fountain.

Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


TUE 14:00 Mindful Mix (m00261sm)
Uplifting classical music for warmth and positivity

A three-hour collection of peaceful classical music to help you take a moment to be still and calm.

Featuring sweet string sounds from Amanda Maier and Ludwig van Beethoven, soothing piano melodies by Georgs Pelecis and Karen Tanaka, and warming orchestral textures by Gustav Holst and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.

Produced by Steven Rajam
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


TUE 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025l1b)
Relax with sonic worlds of Wolf Hall and The Big Short

Escape into a world of immersive soundtracks from film and TV with Edith Bowman. With music from Debbie Wiseman's Wolf Hall and The Big Short by Nicholas Britell.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind


TUE 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0025l3w)
Soundtrack your evening with relaxing classical music

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.
This episode features a rich blend of music from the likes of Haydn, Meredith Monk, and Isobel Waller-Bridge. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how playing a musical instrument can help you to unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


TUE 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024r03)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Celestial sounds for stargazing ft. Julianna Barwick

Let the stars be your guide for this journey into Ultimate Calm.

Join Icelandic pianist and composer Ólafur Arnalds for a spot of stargazing as he shares a soundtrack for watching the skies and letting our day-to-day problems melt away. There’ll be celestial selections including Jóhann Jóhannsson, Colleen and Tomo-Nakaguchi, as well as some special words from composer Dustin O’Halloran on one of his own compositions, Constellation.

Plus we’ll be rocketed away to the safe haven of the ethereal LA composer and vocalist Julianna Barwick, who shares a field recording she made whilst in a park in Tokyo.

Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind


TUE 22:00 Night Tracks (m0028sdy)
A meditative moonlight soundtrack

Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


TUE 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0hzhm6h)
Sink into a deep sleep

Unwind and sink into a peaceful and deep sleep with gentle classical compositions from BBC Introducing, paired with the soothing sounds of the Shipping Forecast.

Produced by Cat Gough
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Sounds

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast”.

WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH 2025

WED 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002559j)
Voyage across the frost

Slip off to sleep with a mix of crisp natural sounds and cool, calming classical music. Immerse yourself in icy frost and peaceful music - a restful soundtrack to help your slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


WED 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0024qv5)
Classical sounds for moments of calm

Relax with a playlist of soothing classical music, to help transport you to place of calm.

With music by Gerald Finzi, Maurice Ravel, and Johann Pachelbel. Plus soft melodies from Florence Price, William Walton, and Eleanor Daley to gently soothe your mind and soul.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


WED 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qxs)
Enhance your day with restful classical music

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring delightfully gentle melodies from Cécile Chaminade, Franz Schubert, and George Butterworth. Plus Sian pays a visit to one of her favourite spots in nature and Professor Catherine Loveday explores how music can affect our driving.


WED 12:00 Piano Focus (m00287mn)
Healing piano music for deeper concentration

Whether you're working, studying or taking up a creative task, immerse yourself in this healing piano mixtape crafted to provide a feeling of stillness and clarity. The mix includes timeless works by renowned composers such as Frédéric Chopin, Helen Hopekirk and Johannes Brahms, alongside compositions by contemporary British artists like Gwenno Morgan, Dylan John Sparkes and Polly Carter. Let the sound of the piano help you to find that flow state!

Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


WED 14:00 Mindful Mix (m00287n5)
Musical moments of calm and relaxation

Take a moment for yourself to unwind and relax into this three hour collection of calming classical music.

Featuring the choral beauty of John Tavener and Henry Purcell, pensive piano tracks from Fanny Mendelssohn and J.S. Bach and calming chamber music from Florence Price and Antonín Dvořák.

Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


WED 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025l0n)
Immerse yourself in the musical worlds of Doctor Foster and Tron.

Escapist music from film and TV with Edith Bowman. Featuring Daft Punk's score for Tron, a moment from Doctor Foster by Frans Bak and music from The Goonies by Dave Grusin.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


WED 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0024r0l)
Evening mood music for relaxation

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.

This episode features a rich blend of pieces from the likes of Schubert, Melissa Parmenter and JS Bach – plus a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Michael J Wong.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


WED 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024r1h)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Restful music for recovery ft. Laufey

It seems that more and more of us are suffering from burnout - a state of mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.

Ólafur Arnalds invites you to take this hour of Ultimate Calm as a breather from the stresses of your everyday life. He reflects on his own relationship to pressure and burnout, and shares music that feels like taking a deep breath including tracks from Voces8, Cephas Azariah and Alice Sara Ott.

Plus we hear from the Icelandic singer, pianist and cellist Laufey on the song that brings her ultimate calm - a classical piece from childhood that always reminds her of home.

Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.


WED 22:00 Night Tracks (m0028sg4)
Music for the darkling hour

Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


WED 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0dwysyp)
Tranquil sounds for quiet nights

Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast set to gentle music from BBC Introducing to help you sleep.

Produced by Gabriel Francis
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Sounds

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast”

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

THU 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002559q)
Sleep beside summer crickets

Slip into warm slumber with atmospheric summer sounds and breezy classical music. Zone out to that familiar, reassuring song of the cricket - an immersive soundscape to drop you into a peaceful state of rest.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and calming nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


THU 06:00 Mindful Mix (m00274vc)
Find relaxation with soothing classical sounds

Indulge in this three hour mix of classical music for ultimate relaxation.

Featuring well-known favourites from Antonín Dvořák and Gabriel Fauré, as well as contemporary gems from Kerensa Briggs, Alexis Ffrench and Cerys Hafana.

Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


THU 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0024qyc)
Start the day right with tranquil classical music

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring warm and inspiring melodies from Franz Schubert, Germaine Tailleferre and William Grant Still. Plus, Sian heads outside to admire the beauty of letting things grow, and Professor Catherine Loveday explores the links between learning an instrument and brain function.


THU 12:00 Piano Focus (m002923g)
A journey through serene piano landscapes

Classical meets contemporary in this carefully-sequenced selection of music for piano. British Romantic composer William Sterndale Bennett paints a tranquil musical sketch of a lake, Grażyna Bacewicz offers a pianistic lullaby, and there’s meditative minimalism from Terry Riley. Plus fresh sounds from contemporary artist-composers including Kelly Moran, Sarah Neutkens and Emile Mosseri.

Produced by Áine Devaney
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


THU 14:00 Mindful Mix (m00281w8)
A daily dose of calming classical music

Sink into the relaxing melodies of this three hour classical mix and lighten the load of daily life. With choral excellence from Max Richter and Karl Jenkins, warm strings from Anna Clyne and Imogen Holst, and pensive piano from Clara Schumann and Philip Glass.

Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM


THU 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025tqh)
Rewind and restore yourself with music from Gladiator and The Critic.

Escape into a world of relaxing scores with Edith Bowman. Featuring music from The Critic by Craig Armstrong, Julia Newman's Feud: Capote vs. The Swans and Siddhartha Kholsa's soundtrack to the TV series, Only Murders In The Building.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind


THU 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0025vfv)
Embrace calm with soothing classical music

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.

This episode features a rich blend of music from the likes of Schubert, Duke Ellington and William Orbit. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with Izzy Judd, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how being outside can aid relaxation.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


THU 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024r0n)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Take flight with the sound of birdsong ft. Jacob Collier

Across three series of Ultimate Calm, there is one particular sound that seems to feature more than any other - birdsong. Birds have been inspiring humans with their songs, their flights and fancies for centuries - this episode is dedicated to them.

Ólafur Arnalds shares a selection of music that features birdsong, or is inspired by the birds themselves, from the likes of Patricia Wolf, Ottorino Respighi and the duo of Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita.

Plus we get to hear another, very unusual, kind of birdsong through the safe haven of the inventive singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier. He shares a field recording he made during a concert in Helsinki, and explains how chaos brings him a feeling of calm.

Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind


THU 22:00 Night Tracks (m0028t50)
Immersive music for late night listening

Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


THU 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m00269fq)
Go on a sleepy voyage to the Antarctic

Excerpts from Ernest Shackleton's 1902 expedition journal with dreamy music from BBC Introducing and the Shipping Forecast. First broadcast in November 2021.

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast."

FRIDAY 21 MARCH 2025

FRI 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m0025d0h)
Journey to the North Pole

Take a dreamy voyage into a world of icy landscapes and soothing classical music. Drift to the Arctic with natural sounds and cool, calming melodies - a perfect mix to soundtrack your slumber.

Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and peaceful nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.

Produced by Alice Boyd and Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


FRI 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0024qvx)
Refreshing classical music to quieten your mind

Take a step back from the busy world with a selection of serene harmonies and calming melodies.

Featuring soothing instrumental textures by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Felix Mendelssohn, plus uplifting and inspiring sounds by Betty Jackson King, Isobel Waller-Bridge, and Jan Garbarek.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


FRI 09:00 Classical Unwind (m00269zh)
Inspiring classical music to boost your day

Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and psychologist Dr Sian Williams.

Featuring relaxing and uplifting melodies from Margaret Bonds, Maurice Ravel and Caroline Shaw, and Sian takes a breath of fresh air by some water. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explains why music is so good at triggering memories.


FRI 12:00 Piano Focus (m00281sw)
A peaceful piano mix to stimulate creativity

Fade out the noise and hone in on your creative potential with this peaceful piano soundtrack. Stillness and clarity come in the form of new piano music by British artists such as Eamonn Watt, Alanna Crouch and Steve Luck as well as the work of legendary composers including Franz Liszt, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Germaine Tailleferre.

Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”


FRI 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0028hz2)
Flowing melodies for quiet relaxation

Let gentle melodies guide you to a peaceful and reflective state. Featuring serene piano solos, glowing choral harmonies, and calming orchestral movements - all chosen to bring relaxation and tranquility to your day.

Featuring lyrical melodies from Florence Price, Franz Schubert, & Gerald Finzi. And flowing textures from Olivia Belli, Christian Forshaw, Eric Whitacre, and more.

Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM


FRI 17:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025vr0)
Escape and relax with music from Black Swan and Bridgerton.

Escape into the relaxing world of film music with Edith Bowman. Featuring Kris Bowers' Bridgerton, Tracy Thorn's soundtrack to The Falling and new music from Paddington In Peru by Dario Marianelli.

Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.


FRI 18:00 Classical Wind Down (m0024r10)
Restore calm with classical music

Three hours of calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest - presented by Irish musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.

This episode features a rich blend of pieces from the likes of Karl Jenkins, Fela Sowande and Dobrinka Tabakova – plus a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Rod Stryker.

To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.


FRI 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024r12)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3

Musical peace and quiet ft. Kelly Lee Owens

This journey into calm is dedicated to two of the most valuable things in the world - peace and quiet. Icelandic pianist and composer Ólafur Arnalds allows the music to speak for itself today, with plenty of spacious selections.

Ólafur shares pieces that use pauses and silences, giving us ample time to sit and reflect in the gentle quiet, from musicians like Helena Basilova, Jónsi and JJJJJerome Ellis.

Plus we’ll visit the musical safe haven of the Welsh electronic musician and producer Kelly Lee Owens. Kelly shares the song that brings her ultimate calm - a lengthy track of swirling synths that always gives her the time and space to dream, switch off and find peace.

Produced by Kit Callin & Derick Armah
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind


FRI 22:00 Night Tracks (m002821p)
Meditative music for night owls

Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.


FRI 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0f30x3h)
Sail away on the tides of sleep

Drift off with soothing music from BBC Introducing alongside Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast.

Produced by Gabriel Francis
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Sounds

To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast”