SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2026
SAT 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m002z72x)
Nod off with with a Night Swim
Drift off with gentle splashes, the sound of crickets at night and restful, relaxing 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 gentle nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.
Produced by Joy Nkoyo and Alice Boyd.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
SAT 06:00 Mindful Mix (m00296ps)
Step into classical stillness
Soothe your mind, body and soul with this collection of classical tunes handpicked to aid your relaxation.
Featuring warm orchestral favourites from Edward Elgar and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as lighter textures from Liz Dilnot Johnson and Heitor Villa-Lobos and glowing choral melodies from Gabriel Faure and Christopher H. Harris.
All this, alongside new releases from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Trio RoVerde and Luke Faulkner and captivating natural soundscapes to help you drift off into a world of peace.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
SAT 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002yx6f)
Bring light to your morning with gentle 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 soothing, enveloping music from composers including Mendelssohn, Beach, and Debussy, and a chance to Find your Focus with piano music juxtaposed with the sound of lapping waves by composer Yu-Peng Chen. Sian takes a breath and explains how a morning walk can help ease anxiety by discharging cortisol, and Professor Catherine Loveday explores whether lyrics or music have the most impact on us as listeners.
SAT 12:00 Piano Focus (m0024qyf)
Switch on your focus with this immersive piano mix
Switch on your focus and keep your creativity flowing with this meditative piano mix. Featuring Debussy’s Préludes pour piano performed by Bulgarian master pianist, Marietta Petkova, Vivaldi’s Lute Concerto in D Major, arranged by Andrew Gentile and performed by Jeffrey Biegel, as well as modern piano pieces by Duval Timothy, Salenta + Topu and Lubomyr Melnyk.
Produced by Cat Gough
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM.
SAT 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0024r0g)
Soothing classical sounds to uplift your senses
Take a moment to take a step back with this calming mix of serene classical sounds. Featuring orchestral warmth from Pietro Mascagni and Howard Skempton, plus solo piano from Maurice Ravel and Rachel Portman.
Produced by Steven Rajam.
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
SAT 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002z72v)
Ease into the evening with restorative 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 Jon Batiste, Dustin O'Halloran and Fanny Mendelssohn. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on how to keep cool in hot weather.
To listen on most smart speakers, just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
SAT 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002z5sh)
Calm your mind with Wuthering Heights and Kung Fu Panda
Head into the calming worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring Hans Zimmer & John Powell's enchanting score for Kung Fu Panda, and Anthony Willis's music for the recent adaptation of Wuthering Heights. Plus a magical moment by Rodrigo Y Gabriela from Pirates of the Caribbean and Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross's score for Queer.
Produced by Lucy Winter
Assistant Producer Naava Abigail Busenze
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 (m002yxz2)
Harmonious music for nighttime listening
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 (p0gd2wpv)
Drift off with this sleep-inducing soundtrack
Restful music from BBC Introducing alongside the Shipping Forecast to help you fall asleep.
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”
SUNDAY 16 AUGUST 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 (m0029prf)
Soothe your soul with calming classical sounds
Take a moment to relax by listening to this collection of soothing classical music.
Featuring the BBC Concert Orchestra performing Leo Delibes, Tenebrae performing William Henry Harris, and the Chineke! Orchestra performing Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. This mix also includes pieces from Maurice Ravel, Ruth Gipps, Margaret Bonds, and Thomas Tallis.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
SUN 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002z6zr)
Refresh your 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 counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring emotive, calming melodies from composers including Haydn, Morricone, and Tailleferre, and a chance to Find your Focus in a piece inpired by a tree by Belle Chen. Sian spies a birds' nest while out to Take a Breath, and learns a lesson about patience. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explores how music can help us to connect to others.
SUN 12:00 Piano Focus (m002mjsn)
Peaceful piano for a peaceful mind
Step into a contemplative sanctuary away from everyday noise with this gentle, handcrafted piano mix. It features new works by contemporary British artists such as Garreth Broke, Rosey Chan, and Duncan Honeybourne, alongside timeless pieces by classical luminaries including Germaine Tailleferre, Cyril Scott, and Frédéric Chopin.
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.'
SUN 14:00 Mindful Mix (m00309xy)
BBC Proms Special: Soothing classical music for inner calm
Restore your inner calm with this collection of soothing classical music, featuring a selection of pieces from the BBC Proms.
Alongside soundscapes from the natural world, this mix features Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E Minor and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Serenade to Music. You’ll also hear other favourites from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Claude Debussy, and Franz Schubert, amongst beautifully calming pieces by Yu-Peng Chen and Sophie Hutchings.
Produced by Katie Hill
Made in Cardiff by Overcoat Media for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
SUN 17:00 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.
SUN 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002lm39)
Sink into relaxation with Breakfast At Tiffany's and Princess Kaiulani
Glide into the relaxing worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring Steven Warbeck's score for Princess Kaiulani and Henry Mancini's Breakfast At Tiffany's. Plus a moment from Gustavo Santaolalla's music for The Last of Us.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
SUN 21:00 Soundwaves (m002h73k)
Music that floats through the quiet hours
Afrodeutsche hosts an hour of escapist and immersive new music from the UK’s brightest contemporary composers and performers.
Featuring recent releases from London based composer Gwilym Gold who's with "The Vernon Spring", Roger Eno with music for strings, a collaboration between Scottish composer and cellist Peter Gregson and composer Stephan Moccio, and music more. We'll also have new music from BBC Introducing.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Soundwaves.
SUN 22:00 Night Tracks (m002yxpd)
Meditative music for late night solace
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 (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 AUGUST 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 (m002z5zz)
BBC Proms special: Mindful classical tunes to clear your head
Press play and listen deeply for a mindful reset. Enjoy a selection of pieces featured in the BBC Proms, paired with soothing soundscapes from the natural world.
This mix features Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G and Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez, as well as choral works by Lucy Walker and William Byrd and calming piano by Oscar Peterson and Suena.
To listen to performances from this year’s BBC Proms, just search ‘Proms’ on BBC Sounds.
Produced by Katie Hill.
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
MON 09:00 Classical Unwind (m00308vh)
Add poise to your morning with beautiful 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 recharging, warming pieces from composers including Gabriel Faure, Florence Price, and Alice Mary Smith, and a chance to find your focus with mesmerising music for piano by Hania Rani. Sian spies some beautiful blooms while out to Take a Breath, and Professor Catherine Loveday explores whether we all have an inbuilt, dedicated capacity for music from birth.
MON 12:00 Piano Focus (m0024qyy)
Melodic piano music to boost your motivation
Hone in on the task at hand with motivating piano music to keep you in the zone. Featuring new tracks from young British-based composers, including Alanna Crouch and Samuel Félix.
Produced by Jamie Green
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM.
MON 14:00 Mindful Mix (m0024r0w)
Classical music for calming reflection
Retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life with this calming classical music mix.
Featuring choral excellence from William Walton and Robert Nathaniel Dett, solo piano lines from Erik Satie and Errollyn Wallen, and pensive organ solos from Olivia Belli and Adolphus Hailstork.
Produced by Katie Hill.
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
MON 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m0027lrd)
Embrace the evening with serene classical music
Wind down from the day with a calming classical soundtrack presented by musician and mindfulness expert Niall Breslin.
We'll hear three hours of soothing music by composers from Paul Mealor, Ludovico Einaudi and Nitin Sawhney to Dorothy Howell, Jean Sibelius, and Claude Debussy. Plus, we'll learn how cuddling up is scientifically proven to help you relax with science podcaster Caroline Steel, while Michael James Wong teaches us to take time out and shift our focus to the external.
To listen on most smart speakers, just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
MON 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002m26q)
Feel inspired and uplifted with Singin' in the Rain and Up
Revive yourself through the music of film and TV with Edith Bowman. Featuring Michael Giacchino's 'Up' and a moment from Singin' in the Rain by Nacio Herb Brown and Lennie Hayton. Plus music from Alexandra Harwood's score for All Creatures Great and Small.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
MON 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qvn)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3
Finding stillness in sound ft. girl in red
Take a moment to stop, be still and breathe.
Icelandic pianist and composer Ólafur Arnalds returns with his third series of Ultimate Calm, each episode a musical journey into a world of calm. Ólafur invites you to join him for an hour of music that he turns to for escape and reflection - finding stillness in sound. There’ll be tracks from the likes of Brian Eno, Hinako Omori and Kelly Moran, and Ólafur reflects on the importance of carving out space for one’s self amidst the busy noise of the modern world.
Plus we visit the first safe haven of the series, discovering the piece of music that brings ultimate calm to Norwegian singer and songwriter girl in red, a personal, nostalgic track that reminds her of a certain time in her life.
Produced by Kit Callin.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.
MON 22:00 Night Tracks (m00302xq)
Harmonious music for nighttime listening
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 (m00308vk)
Dozing on a bed of waves
Set sail on a restful journey around Britain’s coastline with this classical and ambient mix from BBC Introducing artists, paired with excerpts from Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast and the calming sounds of twilight hour farmland, and gentle breeze over tall grass.
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 18 AUGUST 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 (m002b5tc)
Calm the chaos with relaxing classical tunes
Enjoy a restful moment with this calming collection of classical music.
Featuring beautiful serenading brass from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn, soothing piano tones from Muzio Clementi and William Grant Still, and vocal harmonies from Anna Lapwood and Sergei Rachmaninoff. This mix also includes new releases by Heather Tuach and Yoko Misumi, Felix Klieser, and Xie Yueli.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
TUE 09:00 Classical Unwind (m0025myg)
Get set for 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 counselling psychologist Dr Sian Williams.
Featuring soothing and uplifting melodies from Franz Schubert, Hania Rani and César Franck, this episode explores how listening to music in the womb before birth can have an impact on a baby. Plus, Sian takes delight in a walk in the rain.
TUE 12:00 Piano Focus (m0024r19)
Soothing piano to soundtrack your studies
Tune out the noise and soundtrack your study time with this soothing piano mix. Amongst the selections are timeless piano classics from the likes of Frédéric Chopin and Cécile Chaminade alongside new music from young British composers including Eamonn Watt, Alexis Ffrench and Patrick Yeboah.
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 (m0025d67)
Savour the moment with restorative classical music
Take some time to unwind with this calming, serene collection of classical music. With music from Franz Schubert, Stanley Myers, Margaret Bonds and Gustav Holst, alongside contemporary excellence from Sophie Hutchings and Hania Rani.
Produced by Katie Hill.
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
TUE 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m00308vm)
Rest and restore yourself 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 music from the likes of Ennio Morricone, Poppy Ackroyd and J S Bach. Plus a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst, and some essential Wind Down Wisdom from science podcaster Caroline Steel on the benefits of sunlight.
To listen on most smart speakers, just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
TUE 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002szml)
Find your inner calm with Wuthering Heights and Fantasia
Head into the calming worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring music by Jóhann Jóhannsson in the 2026 Wuthering Heights, alongside a classic from Fantasia. Plus Shigeru Umebayashi's emotional piece from In The Mood For Love.
Produced by Lucy Winter
Assistant Producer Naava Abigail Busenze
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
TUE 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qw9)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3
Blissful musical blossoms ft. Erland Cooper
Being amongst nature brings inspiration to so many of us. In this episode of Ultimate Calm, Icelandic composer and pianist Ólafur Arnalds takes inspiration from blossoms and blooms with a selection of music related to flowers. There’ll be music from Celia Hollander, Duval Timothy and Dora Pejačević, and Ólafur gives us an insight into what’s growing in his Reyjavik greenhouse.
Plus we’re transported to the safe haven of the Scottish composer Erland Cooper, an artist very much inspired by the natural world and the magic of the everyday. He shares a field recording of a particular bird song that brings him ultimate calm, transporting us to his own safe haven in the Orkney Islands.
Produced by Kit Callin.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.
TUE 22:00 Night Tracks (m00302bf)
Blissful sounds for night owls
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 (p0dq88tc)
Wrap up, settle down
Sleep soundly with Radio 4’s Shipping Forecast over gentle music from BBC Introducing.
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”.
WEDNESDAY 19 AUGUST 2026
WED 00:30 Sleep Tracks (m00308vp)
Sink into the Steam
Sink into Iceland’s steaming geothermal pools, as bubbling water, gentle gloops and drifting steam blend with soothing classical music to ease you into peaceful sleep.
Sleep Tracks on BBC Radio 3 Unwind combines soothing classical music and gentle nature sounds to help you relax into sleep. Search 'Sleep Tracks' on BBC Sounds to enjoy more episodes.
Produced by Joy Nkoyo and Alice Boyd.
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind.
WED 06:00 Mindful Mix (m002b5y7)
Peaceful classical tunes to calm your mind
Relax your busy mind and take a step back from the chaos of daily life with this collection of peaceful classical music. Featuring beautiful harp melodies from Henri Busser and Bryce Dessner, orchestral warmth from Samuel Coleridge Taylor and Igor Stravinsky, and new releases from Xie Yueli and Jonathan Dove.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
WED 09:00 Classical Unwind (m00308y8)
Bathe your morning in spellbinding 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 uplifting and heart melting melodies from Vaughan Williams, Beethoven, and Julie Cooper, this episode also gives you a chance to Find Your Focus through the slowly pulsing music of Ola Gjeilo. Sian Takes a Breath and finds inspiration in a group of fishermen she stumbles across on her run. Also, Professor Catherine Loveday explores what makes listening to music with other people so enjoyable.
WED 12:00 Piano Focus (m0024r0t)
Uplifting piano music to fuel your creative flow
Fuel your creative flow with this mix of melodic piano pieces, the perfect aid to sustain your concentration and create a soothing backdrop as you work. Featuring beautiful versions of piano classics by Beethoven and Mozart, as well as inspiring contemporary pieces by Alexis Ffrench and Fiona Brice.
To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus”
Produced by Alexa Kruger
A Reduced Listening Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
WED 14:00 Mindful Mix (m002559v)
Relaxing classical music for moments of stillness
Sink into the calming and reflective sounds of this classical music mix. With pieces from Gabriel Fauré and Ronald Binge, alongside Judith Weir and John Cage.
Produced by Steven Rajam
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
WED 17:00 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 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m00308yb)
Calm your senses with The Piano and Dhobi Ghat
Escape into the calm sounds worlds of film soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Michael Nyman's music from Jane Campion’s The Piano and Dhobi Ghat by Gustavo Santaolalla. Plus a piece by Brian Eno from The Shutov Assembly.
Produced by Lucy Winter
Assistant Producer Naava Abigail Busenze
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
WED 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qwv)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3
Calm music for connection ft. Sheku Kanneh-Mason
Music has always been an important part of community and relationships - a way for us to feel connected to each other. It gives us a reason to gather together and helps us relate to one another. Ólafur celebrates that aspect of music with an episode inspired by community, family, friendship and togetherness. He’ll play a selection of soothing sounds including tracks by the likes of Aksuna, Shida Shahabi and the husband-wife duo Windy & Carl, as well as his own collaborative work as part of the duo Kiasmos, with Faroese musician Janus Rasmussen, and his work with the OPIA Community, a travelling festival series, record label and community hub.
Plus the British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason transports us to his musical safe haven. Sheku is no stranger to collaborations, he frequently works with his siblings to create beautiful works together. He shares a piece of music that brings him ultimate calm, a track that reminds him of a sunrise.
Produced by Kit Callin.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.
WED 22:00 Night Tracks (m003038t)
Meditative music for late night solace
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 (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”
THURSDAY 20 AUGUST 2026
THU 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.
THU 06:00 Mindful Mix (m002mv4g)
Experience deep calm with relaxing classical music
Take a step back from routine and enjoy a moment to relax with this three hour mix of soothing classical tunes, paired with soundscapes from the natural world.
Featuring performances from Samantha Ege, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, and David Fray, alongside new releases from Orlando Gibbons, Hildur Gudonadottir, and Olivia Belli.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
THU 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002qqmn)
Refresh your morning with calming 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 gently moving music from Rachmaninov, Haydn, and Avril Coleridge-Taylor, Sian marvels at the resilience of nature while out to Take a Breath. Plus, Professor Catherine Loveday explains why it is that classical music can make us feel more serene.
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 (m00255b5)
Uplifting classical sounds to soothe your senses
A three-hour selection of gentle harmonies and melodies to help relax your mind and aid your relaxation.
With calming piano tones from Philip Glass, Claude Debussy and Sophie Hutchings, alongside glowing choral sounds from Kerensa Briggs and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM
THU 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002559d)
Soundtrack your evening with enchanting 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 Nils Frahm, Olivia Belli and Ralph Vaughan Williams. Plus, a chance to Press Pause with meditation teacher Maude Hirst.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
THU 20:00 Cinematic Soundtracks (m002sqxh)
Drift away with Interstellar and Broadchurch
Escape into the relaxing worlds of film and TV soundtracks with Edith Bowman. Featuring Hans Zimmer's Interstellar, Broadchurch by Ólafur Arnalds and music by Emily Bear from Dog Gone. Plus a moment from Daniel Kaluuya's directorial debut, The Kitchen, by Alan Baranowski and Labrinth.
Produced by Lucy Winter
A Granny Eats Wolf Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind
THU 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qxk)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3
Relax and flow with river-inspired music ft. Nanna
Icelandic composer and pianist Ólafur Arnalds goes with the flow in this episode, with a selection of relaxing music inspired by rivers, and the change they can represent in ourselves. He’ll play music by Brian Eno, KMRU and Sophia Subbayya Vastek, and share thoughts on the river systems and glaciers in the landscape around him in Iceland.
Plus fellow Icelander Nanna brings us along to her safe haven. Nanna is a singer, songwriter and guitarist, formerly part of the indie folk band Of Monsters and Men, and now writes a lot of her own solo material in a cabin outside Reykjavik. We join her there, beside the banks of a small river where she spends a lot of time with her dog and the birds, to hear more about what brings her ultimate calm.
Produced by Kit Callin.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.
THU 22:00 Night Tracks (m003029l)
Nocturnal music to bewitch the senses
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 (p0ct62lj)
Sink into sleep
Submerge yourself in gentle music from BBC Introducing with 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.”
FRIDAY 21 AUGUST 2026
FRI 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.
FRI 06:00 Mindful Mix (m002nrpw)
Relaxing classical music to focus the mind
Take a moment to focus your mind and relax with three hours of soothing classical music paired with soundscapes from the natural world.
This programme includes string quartets from Florence Price and Ludwig Van Beethoven, relaxing harp solos from Ludovico Einaudi and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and calming choral pieces from Ken Burton and Maurice Duruflé.
Produced by Katie Hill
An Overcoat Media Production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
FRI 09:00 Classical Unwind (m002rh22)
Illuminate your morning with calming 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 and enriching melodies from John Barry, Julie Cooper, and John Barry, Sian ponders on the effect of us having so much choice in our lives while exploring an orchard, and Professor Catherine Loveday explains what happens in our brain when we hear pleasurable music. Plus there's another chance to Find Your Focus as Sian plays a mesmerising arrangement of a Prelude by Olivia Belli for two guitars.
FRI 12:00 Piano Focus (m002559b)
Inspiring piano music to enhance focus
Unlock unwavering focus with this carefully crafted piano mix, the perfect accompaniment to your working day. Featuring contemporary gems from Sufjan Stephens, Jon Hopkins and Chilly Gonzales alongside the classical music of Dora Pejačević, Judith Weir and Tanya Ekanayaka.
To listen on most smart speakers just say, ask BBC Sounds to play Piano Focus'.
Produced by Annie Keates Thorpe
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind. MM.
FRI 14:00 Mindful Mix (m00255bp)
Calming classical music for peaceful moments
Take a deep breath and relax with classical sounds. A tranquil soundtrack for quiet reflection and clarity.
Featuring orchestral tunes from J.S. Bach, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, and Edward Elgar. Plus new music from Voces8 and much more.
Produced by James C Taylor
An Overcoat Media production for BBC Radio 3 Unwind, MM
FRI 17:00 Classical Wind Down (m002559n)
Exhale at the end of the day with restorative 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 Isobel Waller-Bridge, Florence Price and Jasdeep Singh Degun – plus some Wind Down Wisdom from award-winning science podcaster Caroline Steel.
To listen on most smart speakers just ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Wind Down.
FRI 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
FRI 21:00 Ultimate Calm (m0024qy3)
Ólafur Arnalds: Series 3
A musical moment to press pause ft. Anoushka Shankar
There are some pieces of music that can make you feel like time has paused, which force you to stop in your tracks and take you away from your everyday life. Ólafur Arnalds plays a selection of time-related pieces that have that quality, including tracks from Hania Rani, Belle Chen and Hiroshi Yoshimura.
Plus we’re transported to the musical safe haven of the musician Anoushka Shankar. Anoushka is drawn to music that either gives her a gut punch of emotion or a deep peace. She shares a very special track that brings her ultimate calm; a piece by her father, the Indian sitarist and composer Ravi Shankar.
Produced by Kit Callin.
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 and Radio 3 Unwind.
FRI 22:00 Night Tracks (m002z6my)
A meditative moonlight soundtrack
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 (p0d2p8k6)
Time to get cosy and enjoy some sleep
Welcome the changing seasons with the Shipping Forecast and music from BBC Introducing.
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".