SATURDAY 03 JANUARY 2026
SAT 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002ft60)
While away time with whale song
Float away with whale lullabies and becalming classical music. Immerse yourself in subaquatic musicality - a perfect soundtrack to snooze along to.
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 Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
SAT 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027bg0)
Classical music for tranquil moments
Escape the stresses of the busy day and unwind with a peaceful selection of classical music. This collection of soothing piano, orchestral, and choral pieces is perfect for moments of stillness and quiet. Featuring flowing harmonies from Rachel Portman, John Rutter, and Morten Lauridsen. And beautiful melodies from George Walker, Margaret Bonds, William Byrd and more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
SAT 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002knv8)
Start the day right with restful harmonies
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring gentle, inviting music from Beethoven, Catrin Finch, and Verdi. Sian explores the benefits of natural light. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explains why some music is more successful than others commercially.
SAT 12:00 Piano Focus (m00298lc)
Feel cool, calm and creative with a serene piano mix
Tune out the distractions and ease into a serene piano soundscape designed to help you stay cool, calm and creative amongst the daily hustle and bustle. The mix features music from legendary composers such as Duke Ellington, Cyril Scott and Cécile Chaminade, alongside contemporary British artists including Jack Herer, Tanya Ekanayaka and Matthew Bourne.
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'.
SAT 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002bjp7)
Ease into calm with peaceful classical sounds
Relax and unwind from the stresses of the day with a peaceful selection of classical music. This collection of soothing piano, orchestral, and choral pieces is perfect for finding those quiet moments to help you pause and reflect.
Featuring calming classics by Erik Satie, Johannes Brahms, and Maurice Ravel. And gentle melodies from Undine Smith Moore, Teresa Carreño, Don MacDonald, and more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
SAT 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m0026w29)
Relax from your day with calming harmonies
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 Florence Price, Philip Glass and William Grant Still. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how singing can help you de-stress from the pressures of your day.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
SAT 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002mvr4)
Create a moment of calm with Interstellar and Poldark
Escape into the calming worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring Hans Zimmer's Interstellar, a moment from TV series Poldark by Anne Dudley and Elgar's Cello Concert in E Minor performed by the Nevermore Academy Orchestra for the series Wednesday. Plus a look at music from films based around artists including Daliland and a Girl with a Pearl Earring.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
SAT 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m001n292)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 2
Musical transformations feat. FINNEAS
Join Icelandic composer and pianist Ólafur Arnalds for one more musical adventure to seek out that all too elusive feeling of calm.
In the final episode of the series, Ólafur looks inward with a selection of musical metamorphoses - calming songs inspired by a sense of transformation. He reflects on how we are always transforming ourselves in little ways, and how music plays a part in that, with tracks by Philip Glass, Alice Sara Ott, Boards of Canada and more.
Plus our last guest is the award-winning American musician and producer FINNEAS, who shares his sonic safe haven - the piece of music that brings him ultimate calm. FINNEAS selects a nostalgic song that he has vivid memories of listening to in so many different situations, that always manages to settle him.
Produced by Katie Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and BBC Sounds
SAT 22:00 Night Tracks (m002mx21)
Immersive music for after-hours
Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
SAT 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0jjtx8h)
A peaceful soundtrack for a full night’s sleep
Fall into a deep sleep with soothing classical compositions from BBC Introducing, paired with extracts from The Shipping Forecast on Radio 4 and gentle field recordings.
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.”
SUNDAY 04 JANUARY 2026
SUN 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002g2wz)
Head out on horseback
Saddle up and ride into sleep with a hypnotic horseback experience. Relax to the gentle rhythm of trotting and steady classical music - 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 Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
SUN 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027bwj)
Float into a world of classical calm
Allow this three hour mix of classical music to transport you to a place of complete calm. Featuring the subtle piano melodies of Alexis Ffrench and Maurice Ravel, the floating vocals from William Henry Harris and Hildegard Von Bingen, and orchestral warmth from Ralph Vaughan Williams and Florence Price.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
SUN 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002mvy0)
Start the day with soothing harmonies
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring relaxing harmonies and bewitching melodies from Stopford, Debussy and Mayer. Sian stumbles upon some spider's webs while out to Take a Breath and Professor Catherine Loveday explains how writing music down has changed the way it has been able to evolve.
SUN 12:00 Piano Focus (m002cqc6)
Serene piano music for steady concentration
Find stillness and steady concentration with this restorative blend of contemporary and classical piano pieces. Gently weaving new music by British artists such as Ben Crosland, Alanna Crouch, and Luke Faulkner with iconic works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Fanny Mendelssohn, and Camille Saint-Saëns.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”
SUN 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002bv0g)
Peaceful tones to bring you stillness
Follow along on a classical journey that takes you to a place of peace with three hours of hand-picked classical music. This edition features the orchestral tones of Francis Poulenc and Dorothy Howell, the soothing solo instrumentation of Francesco da Milano and Frederic Chopin, and beautiful choral arrangements from Errollyn Wallen and Benjamin Britten.
All this, alongside new releases from Mystery Sonata, The King’s Singers, and Esther Abrami and captivating natural soundscapes to help you drift off into a world of calm.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
SUN 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m0026tdl)
Embrace your evening with warming 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 Ryuichi Sakamoto, Emahoy Tsege Mariam Gebru and Hildegard of Bingen. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Michael James Wong, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on why movement can help you de-stress from the pressures of your day.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
SUN 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002mjmw)
Drift into relaxation with Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Escape into the relaxing worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring Jon Brion's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and The Fire Inside by Tamar-kali. Plus a choral moment from John Williams' score for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
SUN 21:00 Soundwaves (m002pblf)
Sparkling new music for a fresh start
Afrodeutsche hosts an hour of escapist and immersive new music from the UK’s brightest contemporary composers and performers.
Featuring new releases from Bristol's Ishmael Ensemble, pianist / composer Fergus McCreadie and cellist / composer Zara Hudson-Kozdoj. 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 (m002mwkg)
Reflective music for the day’s end
Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
SUN 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0jmlf5w)
Gentle sounds to lull you into a deep sleep
Drift into a calm, tranquil space and sink into sleep with the dreamy tones of the Shipping Forecast, set to soothing classical compositions from BBC Introducing.
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 05 JANUARY 2026
MON 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002gbxv)
Cruise along the canal
Drift away with calming sounds captured from a serene canal boat, accompanied by tinkling music. Rest, and let the peaceful landscape and soundscape slowly pass by - 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 Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
MON 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027jxg)
A classical journey into stillness
Allow this three hour classical mix to accompany your journey into deep stillness. Featuring orchestral favourites from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and George Freidrich Handel, alongside calming piano from Amy Beach and H. Leslie Adams and choral arrangements from Douglas Guest and Benjamin Britten.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
MON 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002pbln)
Start the day with wonderful harmonies
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring energising and focussing music from Clementi, Henriette Renié, and Tan Dun, Sian meets a farrier while out to Take a Breath. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explains why some people find it easier than others to hold melodies in their mind.
MON 12:00 Piano Focus (m002d0my)
Classical and contemporary piano gems to centre the mind
Suffused with the impressionist elegance of Debussy and Ravel, alongside modern explorations from Ann Southam and Lucy Johnson, this programme moves through dreamy vignettes and reflective stillness. Cherokee Nation artist Saloli heralds the spring with dewy melodies, while the subdued warmth of Ethiopian composer, pianist, and nun Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou plays like a soft summer’s dusk.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”
Produced by Áine Devaney.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Sounds MM.
MON 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002c3st)
Soothing classical sounds for rest and relaxation
Let your thoughts settle with this peaceful mix of classical music and calming sounds from the natural world. Featuring reflective piano pieces, soft string textures, and tranquil choral moments. Perfect for helping you create space for stillness, rest, and quiet reflection.
Featuring classical favourites by Johann Sebastian Bach, Edvard Grieg, and Johannes Brahms. And newer works by Alexis French, Becky McGlade, Kerensa Briggs, and more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
MON 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m0026tf2)
Slow down with a calm classical 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 Ethel Smyth, Lara Somogyi and Edvard Grieg. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how spending time with friends can help relieve the pressures of your day.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
MON 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002pblq)
Find calming musical moments with The English Patient and Dances With Wolves
Find a calming moment through the music of film and TV with Edith Bowman. Featuring John Barry's classic score for Dances With Wolves and Hannah Peel's Silent Roar. Plus Julia Steinberg's performance of Aria from the Goldberg Variations which was used to great effect in The English Patient alongside the original score from Gabriel Yared.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
MON 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m002pbls)
Erland Cooper: Series 6
Sounds for fresh starts ft. Stephen Fry
Scottish composer Erland Cooper returns to the captain’s seat for a new series of Ultimate Calm, steering us into calm waters with musical selections close to his heart, guided by the elemental, the natural world and his experiences growing up in Orkney.
To kick off this new series, Erland looks for inspiration in the very concept of beginning itself, with a selection of music that has the feeling of starting anew. We’ll hear music from the likes of Laura Misch, Robbie Basho and Ichiko Aoba, and as in every episode of Ultimate Calm, we’ll travel to the musical safe haven of a very special guest. We begin this series with none other than Sir Stephen Fry, who shares the cinematic piece by Liszt that he finds utterly ravishing.
Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production
MON 22:00 Night Tracks (m0025dj2)
Dissolve into a nocturnal sound world
Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
MON 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m002pblv)
Sleepier shores await
Drift off into a calming rest with help from this classical and ambient mix from BBC Introducing artists, paired with excerpts from Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast and relaxing sounds of gentle streams and rain-soaked forests.
Produced by Alex Yates
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
To listen on most smart speakers just 'ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast'.
TUESDAY 06 JANUARY 2026
TUE 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002gl4n)
Nod off with nightingales
Nod off to a mix of birdsong and gentle classical music. Become entranced by the call of one of nature's most beautiful singers - 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. 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.
TUE 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027k27)
Classical melodies for peaceful moments
Escape the stresses of the busy day and and immerse yourself in a world of relaxing classical music and soundscapes. This mix features calming orchestral, piano, and choral pieces - perfect for finding moments of peace and reflection.
With classical favourites from Edward Elgar, Gabriel Fauré, and George Frideric Handel, and gently flowing music from Kerensa Briggs, Thomas James White, Alexis Ffrench, Anna Lapwood, Eleanor Dunnet, Jess Gillam, and more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
TUE 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002kymg)
Boost your morning with peaceful classical music
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring soothing, gentle melodies from Gerhswin, Smyth and Finzi, today Sian explains why we should all be more dog! Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explores what music has in common with swearing.
TUE 12:00 Piano Focus (m002d77v)
Restorative piano music to inspire calm and creativity
Summon a peaceful headspace and unlock your creativity with this gently flowing mixtape of restorative piano music. Featuring a beautiful piano rendition of the Indian classical raga ‘Bhimpalasi’ by Utsav Lal, a soothing performance of ‘Mother’s Love’ by the legendary Emahoy Tsege Mariam Gebru, and fresh compositions from contemporary British artists such as Samuel Félix and Polly Carter.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”
TUE 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002cbcm)
Calming music for moments of reflection
Take a deep breath, hit play, and sink into this peaceful collection of classical music, carefully chosen to help you relax. This mix features orchestral favourites from Johannes Brahms and Gabriel Faure, alongside the chamber music of Dmitri Shostakovich and Sergey Akhunov, as well as the choral delights of Kerensa Briggs and Kristina Arakelyan.
Plus, recent releases from the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, Anna Lapwood and Jess Gillam, all paired with soothing soundscapes from the natural world.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
TUE 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002pblh)
Drift into the night on a current of calming 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 Amy Beach, Michael Nyman and Akira Kosemura. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how a change of bedding can help combat stress.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
TUE 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0024r1c)
Immerse yourself in the music of Game of Thrones and Dunkirk
Escape into a world of immersive soundtracks with film fanatic Edith Bowman. Featuring Ramin Djawadi's Game of Thrones and Benjamin Wallfisch's interpretation of Elgar for Dunkirk.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
TUE 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m002pblk)
Erland Cooper: Series 6
Finding the calm within echoes ft. Lucinda Chua
Scottish composer Erland Cooper invites you to escape into the peaceful sonic landscape found within echoes and reverberations, away from the noise and the chaos of the everyday. There’ll be reflective music that rings and resonates from Julee Cruise, Ryuichi Sakamoto and Natalia Tsupryk.
Plus we travel to the musical safe haven of cellist and composer Lucinda Chua, who shares the piece of music that makes her feel like she’s floating above the clouds.
Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production
TUE 22:00 Night Tracks (m0025ddg)
Eclectic music for after dark
Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
TUE 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m0024qy5)
Nod off with gentle classical music
Get cosy with the sleep-inducing sounds of the Shipping Forecast, paired with classical music from BBC Introducing and some gentle field recordings of rain.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Sounds
Produced by Cat Gough
WEDNESDAY 07 JANUARY 2026
WED 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002gxcs)
Fall asleep counting sheep
It's pasture bedtime. Set yourself up for slumber with the sounds of a flock grazing on a peaceful day, accompanied by the warm tones of the orchestra drifting in on the wind. Curl up inside immersive environmental and musical sounds - a perfect soundtrack to transport you to a sleepy state.
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 Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
WED 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027s8l)
Soothing classical melodies for a calm mind
For a peaceful and tranquil state of mind, sink into the relaxing sounds of this three hour classical music mix. With choral melodies from Hildegard Von Bingen and Karl Jenkins, orchestral classics from Camille Saint-Saëns and Johannes Brahms, and soothing contemporary piano from Alexis Ffrench and Marie Awadis.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
WED 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002kyqy)
Destress your day with beautiful music
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring gentle melodies and soothing harmonies from Rachmaninov, Dora Bright, and Vaughan Williams. Sian takes a breath by the seaside, and Professor Catherine Loveday explains why classical music might be a good accompaniment to a workout.
WED 12:00 Piano Focus (m002c3q5)
Soothing piano sounds to block out distraction
Block out the noise and immerse yourself in a calming piano soundtrack, curated to help you focus—whether you're working, studying, or unwinding with a hobby. Discover beautiful new pieces from British female composers like Poppy Ackroyd, Alanna Crouch, and Cerys Hafana, alongside timeless works by classical greats including Chopin, Cohen, and Beethoven.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”
WED 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002cqgc)
Peaceful classical pieces to lift your day
Embrace quiet moments with a selection of gentle classical pieces, filled with soft textures and reflective melodies to help settle the mind.
With reflective music by Olivia Belli, Alis Huws, and Paul Smith, and calming works by Erik Satie, Gabriel Fauré, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. This mix invites you to pause, breathe, and simply be.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
WED 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002pblx)
Relax with a calming selection of classical music
Three hours of calming classical music designed to light up the winter darkness, and 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 blend of radiant music from the likes of Mel Bonis, Max Richter, Handel, and Alice Sara Ott. Plus, a chance to Press Pause, and some Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel, all about the benefits of learning music.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
WED 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002pblz)
Head into relaxation with Fireflies in the Garden and Solaris.
Head into the relaxing worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring music from Solaris by Cliff Martinez and Fireflies in the Garden by Alexander Malter. Plus Johnny Greenwood's collaboration with Lynne Ramsay on her film, You Were Never Really Here featuring players from the London Contemporary Orchestra.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
WED 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m002pbm1)
Erland Cooper: Series 6
A tranquil soundtrack of ice and frost ft. Alex Somers
Growing up on an island in the north sea, composer Erland Cooper is well used to the cold, and finds it a huge source of inspiration for him. For this episode, he reaches for musical selections inspired by frost, ice and snow, with recordings of glacial lakes and music from the likes of Peter Broderick, Vashti Bunyan and Hiroshi Yoshimura.
Plus we travel to the safe haven of the American musician and composer Alex Somers. He shares one of his favourite pieces of music that he recommends listening to on repeat to get to a place of ultimate calm.
Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production
WED 22:00 Night Tracks (m0025cfv)
Meditative music for night owls
Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
WED 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m002jgtp)
Settle down with a serene soundtrack
Find comfort and calm with this sleepy mix of BBC Introducing artists; excerpts from Radio 4’s The Shipping Forecast and sounds of nature. Giving you the perfect setting to settle down for the night.
Produced by Alex Yates
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
To listen on most smart speakers just 'ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast'.
THURSDAY 08 JANUARY 2026
THU 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002h75b)
Journey through the jungle
Let your mind wander with a mix of wild natural sounds and escapist classical pieces. Bed down in the undergrowth and immerse yourself in a mellow musical medley of birds, primates, and plant life - 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 Joy Nkoyo.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
THU 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027s1j)
Escape into a world of relaxing classical music
Enjoy the calming sounds of classical music, to bring a sense of tranquillity and reflection into your day. Featuring soothing solo piano from Hayato Sumino, Germaine Tailleferre, and Robert Nathaniel Dett. Plus glowing choral harmonies from Ivo Antognini, Imogen Holst, and Rebecca Dale. And orchestral works from Frederick Delius, Rachel Portman, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
This mix is ideal for unwinding after a busy day, or simply finding peace in the small moments.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
THU 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002pbm3)
A soothing start to the day with melodious classics
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring gentle, enriching melodies from Laura Mvula, Gustav Holst, and Morten Lauridsen, Sian finds the joy in daydreaming wile out to Take a Breath. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explores what music makes people think about.
THU 12:00 Piano Focus (m002pbm5)
Enchanting piano music for deep focus
Delve into an enchanting piano mixtape that creates space for deeper concentration and a sustained flow state. The soundtrack features iconic composers such as Claude Debussy, Ryuichi Sakamoto, and Cécile Chaminade, alongside homegrown British talents including Taz Modi, Julie Cooper, and Doreen Carwithen.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say, 'ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus'.
THU 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002d1b0)
Float away into a world of classical calm
Press play and enjoy relaxing into this 3 hour mix of calming classical music chosen carefully to help you unwind.
Featuring orchestral favourites from Georges Bizet and Edward Elgar, along with restful piano from Montague Ring and Maurice Ravel and soothing choral tones from Stephen Foster and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, plus recent releases from Esther Abrami, Nicholas Daniel and Anna Shelest, all paired with soothing soundscapes from the natural world.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
THU 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m00274rw)
Let go of the day with soothing 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 Olafur Arnalds, Caroline Shaw and Li Zemin. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Shaw on how gentle movement like Pilates can help you let go of the day.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
THU 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m00255b2)
Lose yourself in music with Captain Corelli's Mandolin and Rye Lane
The most relaxing film music with Edith Bowman. Featuring Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Stephen Warbeck, Gustavo Santaolalla's Motorcycle Diaries and The Godfather by Nino Rota.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
THU 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m002pbm7)
Erland Cooper: Series 6
Drift into a magical musical world ft. Nailah Hunter
Scottish composer Erland Cooper has always believed in the power of a little bit of magic. In this episode, we join him for a musical voyage imbued with a sense of mystery, wonder, and the otherworldly… Featuring ethereal sounds by the likes of Isao Tomita, Andrew Wasylyk and Klinck Trio.
Plus we travel to the safe haven of the American harpist and composer Nailah Hunter, hearing the song that transports her to a fairy realm under a twinkling starry sky.
Produced by Kit Callin
A Reduced Listening production
THU 22:00 Night Tracks (m00275dr)
Dissolve into a nocturnal soundworld
Hannah Peel presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
THU 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (m0027cdq)
Drift off with soothing classical compositions from BBC Introducing
Drift off with soothing classical compositions from BBC Introducing, paired with The Shipping Forecast from Radio 4.
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”
FRIDAY 09 JANUARY 2026
FRI 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002q5bm)
Drift off with a blend of nature sounds and restful, relaxing classical music.
FRI 06:00 Mindful Mix (m0027s5p)
Classical tunes for a moment of stillness
Take a step back from the busyness of daily life and pause for a moment of stillness with this classical music mix. These three hours feature orchestral delights performed by the BBC orchestras from Eric Coates and Cipriani Potter, as well as choral arrangements from Robert Nathaniel Dett and Joanna Marsh.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
FRI 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002lb20)
Bring some focus to your morning with gentle melodies
Calming classical music to help you focus and set you up for the day ahead. Presented by broadcaster, author and counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring energising, and restorative music from Sally Beamish, William Byrd, and Schubert. Sian takes time to explore some moss when out to Take a Breath, and Professor Catherine Loveday explains why music can mean different things to people from different cultures.
FRI 12:00 Piano Focus (m002dzdv)
Healing piano melodies for focus and flow
Soothe your mind and ease into a gentle state of flow with this two-hour piano-led soundtrack. Featuring the timeless, healing works of Sergei Rachmaninoff, Marie Jaëll, and Franz Liszt, alongside new music from contemporary British artists like Forest_bathing, Ben Crosland, and Alanna Crouch.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
To listen on most smart speakers, just say, “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”. MM
FRI 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002pbm9)
Gentle classical music for peace and calm
Embrace moments of stillness with this calming collection of peaceful classical melodies and sounds from the natural world. This mix features soothing piano, strings, and orchestral music, to help you let go of stress and reconnect with your inner sense of calm.
Featuring music from Jules Massenet, Max Richter, Alexis Ffrench, Elizabeth Poston, Hayato Sumino and many more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
FRI 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002754b)
Switch off with calming classical music
Niall Breslin brings you calming classical music to help you release the stresses of the day, recharge and prepare to rest.
FRI 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m0025cmb)
Whisk yourself away with Finding Nemo and Grey Gardens
Meditative musical wonders from film and TV with Edith Bowman. With Finding Nemo by Thomas Newman, Perfect Sense by Max Richter and Rachel Portman's Grey Gardens.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
FRI 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m002pbmc)
Erland Cooper: Series 6
Episode 5
Journeys into calm, explored through all forms of classical and ambient music.
FRI 22:00 Night Tracks (m002n8gx)
A musical nocturnal winter garden
Hannah Peel presents a wintry, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
FRI 23:30 The Sleeping Forecast (p0hnjxxw)
Comforting tunes to get you to sleep
Unwind into a tranquil sleep with gentle melodies from BBC Introducing, accompanied by comforting excerpts from The Shipping Forecast on Radio 4.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play The Sleeping Forecast'.