RADIO-LISTS: BBC RADIO 3
Unofficial Weekly Listings for BBC Radio 3 — supported by bbc.co.uk/programmes/
SATURDAY 20 DECEMBER 2025
SAT 00:30 Through the Night (m002nbfr)
Brahms from Budapest
The pianist Simon Trpčeski performs Brahms' second piano concerto with the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Riccardo Frizza. After, more Brahms: his Symphony no 4. Penny Gore presents.
12:31 AM
Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
Piano Concerto no 2 in B flat, Op 83
Simon Trpčeski (piano), Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Budapest, Riccardo Frizza (conductor)
01:18 AM
MAKEDONISSIMO
Paprika Dance (encore)
Simon Trpčeski (piano)
01:19 AM
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
Venetian Gondola Song, Op 19 no 6 (encore)
Simon Trpčeski (piano)
01:21 AM
Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
Symphony no 4 in E minor, Op 98
Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Budapest, Riccardo Frizza (conductor)
02:02 AM
Franz Schubert (1797-1828), Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (author)
An Mignon from 3 Songs, D.161
Christoph Prégardien (tenor), Andreas Staier (pianoforte)
02:05 AM
Bernd Alois Zimmermann (1918-1970)
Prelude from Sonata for violin solo
Thomas Zehetmair (violin)
02:09 AM
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
Three Psalms, Op 78
Chamber Choir AVE, Andraž Hauptman (conductor)
02:31 AM
Grażyna Bacewicz (1909-1969)
Piano Quintet No. 1 arr. orchestra
Pavel Wakarecy (piano), 'Amadeus' Polish Radio Chamber Orchestra, Anna Duczmal-Mróz (conductor)
02:57 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Concerto for violin and string orchestra No.1 in D minor (BWV.1052)
Ars Barocca
03:19 AM
Franz Liszt (1811-1886)
Vallée d'Obermann, from 'Années de pèlerinage, première année: Suisse, S. 160'
Piotr Alexewicz (piano)
03:33 AM
Frederick Delius (1862-1934)
The Walk to the Paradise Garden
BBC Concert Orchestra, Barry Wordsworth (conductor)
03:43 AM
Henry Purcell (1659-1695)
Awake, and with attention hear for bass and continuo (Z.181)
Stephen Varcoe (bass), David Miller (theorbo), Peter Seymour (organ)
03:54 AM
Cécile Chaminade (1857-1944)
Flute Concertino, Op 107
Maria Filippova (flute), Ekaterina Mirzaeva (piano)
04:03 AM
Johann Gottfried Müthel (1728-1788)
Jesu, meine Freude, arr. for organ
Ludger Lohmann (organ)
04:11 AM
Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904)
Slavonic Dance no 10 in E minor, Op 72 no 2
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Juanjo Mena (conductor)
04:17 AM
Robert Schumann (1810-1856)
2 Fugues for piano, Op 72 nos 1 & 2
Tobias Koch (piano)
04:24 AM
Josquin des Prez (c1440 - 1521)
La deploration de Johan Okeghem
Netherlands Chamber Choir, Paul Van Nevel (conductor)
04:31 AM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)
Horn Concerto no 1 in D major, K412
Premysl Vojta (horn), Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Łukasz Borowicz (conductor)
04:39 AM
Marin Marais (1656-1728)
Tombeau pour Monsr. de Lully
Ricercar Consort
04:47 AM
Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)
Giovanna d'Arco - Sinfonia
Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, Richard Bradshaw (conductor)
04:55 AM
Chiara Margarita Cozzolani (1602-c.1678)
O quam bonus es - motet for 2 voices
Cappella Artemisia
05:05 AM
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809), arr. Harold Perry
Divertimento 'Feldpartita' in B flat major, Hob.
2.46
Galliard Ensemble
05:14 AM
Alexander Glazunov (1865-1936)
Concert waltz for orchestra no 1 in D major, Op 47
CBC Vancouver Orchestra, Kazuyoshi Akiyama (conductor)
05:23 AM
Willy Hess (1906-1997)
Suite in B flat major for piano solo, Op 45
Desmond Wright (piano)
05:33 AM
Alexina Louie (b.1949)
Songs of Paradise
Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Kazuhiro Koizumi (conductor)
05:49 AM
Luigi Rossi (c.1597-1653)
Oratorio per la Settimana Santa (in two parts)
Agnes Mellon (soprano), Jill Feldman (soprano), Marie-Claude Vallin (soprano), Dominique Visse (counter tenor), Vincent Darras (counter tenor), Ian Honeyman (tenor), Michel Laplenie (tenor), Philippe Cantor (bass), François Fauché (bass), Antoine Sicot (bass), Les Arts Florissants, William Christie (director)
SAT 06:30 Breakfast (m002ng4l)
The best classical music wake-up call
Hannah French presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
SAT 09:00 Saturday Morning (m002ng4n)
A Christmas party with superstar organist Anna Lapwood
Tom Service hosts a Christmas party! Whether you're wrapping presents, hitting the shops or getting ahead with the sprouts, Tom has the best classical playlist and the biggest stars to start your festive weekend.
Stars don't get much bigger at the moment than the organist Anna Lapwood. An organist, conductor and advocate - Gramophone calls her ‘the dream ambassador for classical music’ and she was voted into The Sunday Times Young Power List, celebrating the 30 most powerful people under 30 in the UK. Whether she's performing classical music, film scores or brand new works for the organ or choir, her deep joy in making music shines through. On top of that she's a social media sensation who is almost single-handedly bringing the instrument to new ears and making the organ cool again. Tom and Anna settle down for a chat about all things organ, her plans for the new year and maybe a few Christmas surprises.
Meanwhile, in the studio all morning are the young dynamic choir Siglo de Oro - known for their adventurous arrangements and glorious voices - they'll be singing some of their favourite festive tunes and talking to Tom about their busiest time of year.
This year Snoopy and Peanuts, Charles Schulz's beloved cartoon characters, are celebrating their 75th birthday. Their iconic Christmas episode 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' which also turns 60 this December, features one of the great Christmas soundtracks by the jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi. Over the years it has become the second-bestselling jazz title in history and is an essential part of many people's Christmas listening. Tom talks to Benjamin Clark from the Schulz Museum and pianist Jamie Cullum to pay tribute to the classic album.
And this time last year the London Vegetable Orchestra popped into the Saturday studio for Christmas to make some instruments, play some carols and spread legumey cheer, so they're back to do the same and talk about their last year in which they broke social media and made a carrot recorder for a King.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Saturday Morning'.
SAT 12:00 Earlier... with Jools Holland (m002ng4q)
Jools and Lady Glenconner choose their festive favourites
In a special Christmas edition of Earlier, Jools shares a festive selection of musical treats by some of his favourites including JS Bach, Bessie Smith and Cecil Gant. His guest is the author and former lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret, Anne Glenconner, who shares seasonal stories from her extraordinary life; childhood Christmases at her family home, Holkham Hall in Norfolk; travelling the world with Princess Margaret; and setting out on a new career path, as a writer, at the age of 87. She discusses her sixth and latest book 'Manners and Mischief – An A-Z of a Life Well Lived' and picks some of her favourite festive music, including a mash-up of carols for string quartet by Rebecca Clarke, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, Fanny Mendelssohn’s ode to December and her most-loved carol of all time.
SAT 13:00 Music Matters (m002ng4s)
In the Beginning
The Cosmos
James MacMillan and guests Dr Rowan Williams, Prof Margarita Mooney Clayton, composer Jay Capperauld and musicologist Dr Sarah Moerman explore how music reflects humanity’s fascination with the universe. Topics include cosmic inspiration in both sacred and secular music, the role of the stars in the Nativity story, and our place within the universe.
SAT 14:00 Record Review (m002ng4v)
Tchaikovsky's Symphony No.1 'Winter Daydreams' in Building a Library with Jonathan Cross and Andrew McGregor
Navigating the best new classical albums of music for Christmas and the festive period.
Presented by Andrew McGregor.
2.10pm
Sarah Walker picks some of her favourite seasonal new releases.
3.00pm
Building a Library
Jonathan Cross assesses recordings of Tchaikovky's Symphony No. 1 "Winter Daydreams" and makes a top recommendation.
First performed in Moscow in 1868 after many years of soul-searching and hard graft, Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 1, entitled "Winter Daydreams", is a triumphantly atmospheric winter wonderland soundscape.
Top choice:
Boston Symphony Orchestra, Michael Tilson Thomas (conductor)
Deutsche Grammophon 4636152
3.45pm
Record of the Week
Andrew's pick of the best of the best new Christmassy releases.
SAT 16:00 Sound of Cinema (m002ng4x)
Christmas at the Movies
Join Edith Bowman for a festive special edition of Sound of Cinema- this week featuring wall to wall Christmas classics from the movies with music by John Williams and his score to Home Alone 2, Alan Silvestri's magical score from The Polar Express, Isobel Waller-Bridge's music from The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse, John Debney's Elf, The Holiday by Hans Zimmer, and many more. We'll also have a seasonal Harmonising Hollywood from American composer, arranger and broadcaster Richard Niles, giving us an insight into the music of Danny Elfman, and BBC Breakfast presenter John Kay gives us his festive Pick of the Flicks
SAT 17:00 This Classical Life (m002ng4z)
Guy Barker (This Classical Christmas)
It's This Classical Christmas! Jess Gillam swaps festive tracks with by the conductor, composer, arranger and trumpeter Guy Barker.
Guy's varied career has seen him working across the worlds of jazz, pop, classical, film and theatre, with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Sting to Quincy Jones. His Big Band Christmas concerts raise the roof of the Royal Albert Hall every December, and since 2008 he has been the Musical Director and arranger for the annual Jazz Voice concert at the Barbican.
Guy has brought along music including Bill Evans' take on a festive classic, a Christmas Cantata from Arthur Honegger and a jazz organ version of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. Jess's choices include a Sleigh Ride from Leroy Anderson, a lullaby from Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov and Ella Fitzgerald revealing The Secret of Christmas.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3'.
SAT 18:00 Opera on 3 (m002ng51)
Gustave Charpentier's Louise
Gustave Charpentier's Louise from the 2025 Aix-en-Provence Festival.
A rare staging of Gustave Charpentier's Louise, a 'novel in music' that was once hugely popular, having received nearly 100 performances in its first year - including one at Paris's Opéra-Comique when 400 seats were given to Paris dressmakers.
Louise was premiered on 2 February 1900 and, although it was pipped to the post by Puccini's Tosca, this 'roman musical', combining social preoccupations with idealistic aspirations, magnificent flights of lyricism and great picturesque scenes, maybe be seen to have given the twentieth century its first opera. Young Louise, a seamstress living with her parents, loves Julien, an artist; she desires freedom and rejects the strict moral code of her parents. Ultimately she chooses to face an uncertain future alone, a future associated in her mind by Paris, the 'City of Lights,' freedom and pleasure. And there are few passages in opera that express so evocatively the pleasure of love and its potential to emancipate a young woman as Louise's hit aria, 'Depuis le jour où je me suis donnée..'
Elsa Dreisig plays Louise, the young woman full of determination and fighting spirit; and she is surrounded in this performance from the Théâtre de l'Archevêché, Aix-en-Provence by some of the finest upholders of the French repertoire.
Presented by Georgia Mann in conversation with French music specialist, Emma Kavanagh.
Gustave Charpentier: Louise, roman musical in four acts and five scenes
Louise.... Elsa Dreisig (soprano)
Julien/The noctambulist.... Adam Smith (tenor)
Mother/La Première de l’atelier.... Sophie Koch (mezzo-soprano)
Un Marchand d’habits.... Grégoire Mour (tenor)
Balayeuse.... Annick Massis (mezzo-soprano)
Irma.... Marianne Croux (soprano)
Gertrude.... Carol Garcia (soprano)
Camille.... Karolina Bengtsson (soprano)
Madeleine.... Marie-Thérèse Keller (soprano)
Marguerite/La Laitière.... Julie Pasturaud (soprano)
Élise / La petite Chiffonnière.... Marion Vergez-Pascal (soprano)
Suzanne / La Glaneuse de charbon.... Marion Lebègue (mezzo-soprano)
Blanche / La Plieuse de journaux.... Jennifer Courcier (soprano)
L’Apprentie, Le Gavroche.... Céleste Pinel (soprano)
Le Bricoleur.... Frédéric Caton (bass)
Lyon Opera Children's Chorus
Lyon Opera Chorus
Lyon Opera Orchestra
Giacomo Sagripanti (conductor)
Followed at:
8.40pm by chamber music recorded at the Britten Studio in Snape by Ernest Chausson, a short-lived contemporary of the long-lived Gustave Charpentier.
Chausson: Concert for Violin, Piano and String Quartet, Op.21
Tom Borrow (piano), Ionel Manciu (piano),
Van Kuijk Quartet
(Live recording from Radio 3 New Generation Artists weekend at Snape Maltings in March 2022. )
SAT 21:30 Music Planet (m002ng53)
Wassail!
Kathryn Tickell curates a dazzling selection of roots-based music. Devonian, folk-singer Jim Causley will be selecting a triptych of seasonal Wassails, Wassailing is a Twelfth Night tradition with pagan roots, typically folks would visit local orchards and fruit trees and would sing songs and made a hullabaloo by banging pots and pans, and would be given spiced alcoholic drink from a communal wassail bowl or cup by the orchard owner.
Elsewhere in the show Yanvalou rhythms from Haitian-Canadian singer, guitarist and folklorist Wesli, Nubian and Nilotic melodies from Italian Sudanese singer Amira Kheir and Aoife Ní Bhriain and Cormac McCarthy reimagines Irish traditional music through Jazz inflection. As well as live recordings from the illustrious Copper family who will be dusting off the songbook to sing a Christmas carol or two.
Produced by Fatuma Khaireh
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3 To listen on most smart speakers, just say: “Ask BBC Sounds to play Music Planet.”
SAT 22:30 New Music Show (m002ng55)
Lights and Places
Kate Molleson presents a mix of specially recorded new music and new releases. And, on the eve of the Winter Solstice, she'll find some tracks to keep you warm on those long, dark winter nights.
From the Manchester Collective's recent South Bank Centre concert 'Lights and Places,' there's a work by Mathis Saunier inspired by the experiences of musician friends recording 'neutral' sounds for use in computer-generated compositions, those sounds treated like factory-made components to be used in anything from toys to industrial machinery. Also from that concert comes Jocelyn Campbell's new work for string trio, imagined as he sat on the night bus at
3am with the world drifting by - lights flickering vaguely though through the steamed up windows. And, from this year's Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, there's vocal music by Arvo Pärt and Finnish composer Joel Järventausta's setting of words by Sara Teasdale musing on the power of nature to prevail, ending with a nod to Hildegard von Bingen’s responsory O nobilissima viriditas – O most noble greenness.
From Manchester Collective:
Alex Groves: Alula
Mathis Saunier: HYPERMEMORIA
A piece for violin, cello, electric guitar, electronics, light system, and participative audience
Errollyn Wallen: All the Blues I see
Jocelyn Campbell: 3AM: Lights and places flicker endlessly, passing by alongside old memories that evoke but will not linger...
Anna Meredith: tuggemo
From Huddersfield Contemporary Music Ferstival:
Irene Buckley: Liminalis
Darragh Morgan (violin and electronics)
Joel Jarventausta: There will come soft rains
Arvo Pärt: The Beatitudes
carice
SUNDAY 21 DECEMBER 2025
SUN 00:30 Through the Night (m002ng57)
Bruckner Symphony no 8
The Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra performs Bruckner's final symphony, his 8th. The composer himself regarded the Adagio movement in this work as the pinnacle of his life's achievements. The Bruckner expert Manfred Honeck directs the orchestra. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
Anton Bruckner (1824-1896)
Symphony no 8 in C minor
Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Manfred Honeck (conductor)
01:52 AM
Hans Eklund (1927-1999)
Tre dikter om havet (3 poems about the sea)
Swedish Radio Choir, Gustav Sjökvist (conductor)
01:57 AM
Ludvig Norman (1831-1885)
2 Charakterstücke for piano, Op 1
Bengt-Åke Lundin (piano)
02:07 AM
Joseph Martin Kraus (1756-1792)
String Quartet no 2 in B flat major
Lysell String Quartet
02:22 AM
Benedetto Pallavicino (c.1551-1601)
Cruda Amarilli, che col nome ancora - madrigal for 5 voices
Cantus Cölln
02:31 AM
Leokadiya Kashperova (1872-1940)
Piano Trio in A minor, Op Posth
Gould Piano Trio
02:59 AM
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Concerto for Trumpet & Orchestra in E flat major, H.7e.1
Ole Edvard Antonsen (trumpet), Norwegian Radio Orchestra, Nicolae Moldoveanu (conductor)
03:16 AM
Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
Four Songs, Op 17
Davos Festival Women's Choir, Magdalena Hoffmann (harp), Nicolas Ramez (french horn), François Rieu (french horn)
03:32 AM
Thea Musgrave (b.1928)
Loch Ness - a postcard from Scotland for orchestra
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Donald Runnicles (conductor)
03:42 AM
Henry Purcell (1659-1695), John Playford (1623-1686)
Seven works by Purcell and Playford
Les Ambassadeurs, Alexis Kossenko (director)
03:55 AM
Alberta Suriani (1920-1977)
Partita for harp
Branka Janjanin-Magdalenič (harp)
04:05 AM
Ernst von Dohnányi (1877-1960)
Pierrette fatyla - keringo
Central Woodwind Orchestra of the Hungarian Army, Frigyes Hidas (conductor)
04:12 AM
Alan Rawsthorne (1905-1971)
The Cruel sea - music for the film
BBC Philharmonic, Rumon Gamba (conductor)
04:17 AM
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)
How fair thou art (Four Hymns), Op 74 No 1
Eilert Hasseldal (baritone), Oslo Chamber Chorus, Håkon Nystedt (director)
04:23 AM
Bedrich Anton Wiedermann (1883-1951)
Pastorale dorico for organ
Hans Leenders (organ)
04:31 AM
Isaac Albéniz (1860-1909), arr. Andrés Segovia
Asturias - Suite española, Op 47
Xavier Díaz-Latorre (guitar)
04:38 AM
Jacob Obrecht (1457-1505)
Frólich wesen (Cheerful disposition)
Grace Newcombe (soprano), Katharina Haun (cornetto), Baptiste Romain (fiddle), Elizabeth Rumsey (gamba), Marc Lewon (viola d'arco)
04:44 AM
Giuseppe Martucci (1856-1909)
Noveletta for orchestra, Op 82 no 2
Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Nello Santi (conductor)
04:51 AM
Brian Eno (b.1948), arr. Julia Wolfe
Music for Airports 1/2
Bang on a Can All-Stars, Wayne du Maine (trumpet), Tommy Hoyt (trumpet), Julie Josephson (trombone), Christopher Washburne (trombone), Wu Man (lute), Katie Geissinger (alto), Phyllis Jo Kubey (alto), Alexandra Montano (alto)
05:03 AM
Clara Schumann (1819-1896)
Quatre pièces fugitives, Op 15
Diana Ketler (piano)
05:15 AM
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach (1714-1788)
Quartet for flute, viola and continuo in D major
Les Adieux
05:32 AM
Selim Palmgren (1878-1951)
Cinderella Suite
Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, George de Godzinsky (conductor)
05:54 AM
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
Cello Sonata No 1 in B flat major, Op 45
Diana Ozolina (cello), Lelde Paula (piano)
06:16 AM
Igor Kuljerić (1938-2006), arr. Ivana Bilic
Barocchiana for solo marimba
Ivana Bilic (percussion)
SUN 06:30 Breakfast (m002ng9l)
Start the day on the right note with classical music
Mark Forrest presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford. With Bach Before 7 and the best in classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
SUN 09:00 Sunday Morning (m002ng9n)
Three hours of festive sparkle
On the last Sunday Morning before Christmas day, Sarah will be playing a suitably festive selection of music including traditional carols and celebratory Bach.
There's also a beautiful new recording of Benjamin Britten's A Ceremony of Carols, by the American ensemble Ensemble Altera directed Christopher Lowrey, and this week's Choral Reflection gets all Christmassy.
Plus, a very English ride on a sleigh...
A Tandem Production for BBC Radio 3
SUN 12:00 Private Passions (m002ng9q)
Pam Ayres
Michael Berkeley’s guest is the poet Pam Ayres, who shares the music that matters most to her, including some seasonal favourites. It’s now 50 years since Pam first won a vast national audience on the TV talent show Opportunity Knocks, with poems including her much-loved wintry verse 'Sling another chair leg on the fire, Mother!'
Her musical choices include Rachmaninov, Elgar and Johnny Mathis.
SUN 13:30 Music Map (m002ng9s)
A journey to Corelli's Christmas Concerto
The musical landscape of Corelli's Christmas Concerto is Sara Mohr-Pietsch's destination this week. There are stops for some of the composers that Corelli inspired, including JS Bach and Rachmaninov, and a glance at Corelli's impressive final resting place. There's also time for some Christmassy magic from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, along with shepherds from Percy Grainger and Handel.
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers), just say: 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Music Map.'
SUN 15:00 Choral Evensong (m002n9sm)
Bath Abbey
Last Wednesday's service from Bath Abbey.
Introit: Let all mortal flesh keep silence (Bairstow)
Responses: Paul Spicer
Psalms 59, 60 (Barnby, Kelway, Sidwell)
First Lesson: Micah 5 vv2-5a
Magnificat for four voices (Charpentier)
Second Lesson: Luke 1 vv26-38
Deus misereatur: Psalm 67 (Francis Grier)
Anthem: Es ist ein Ros entsprungen (Praetorius, arr. Sandström)
Prayer Anthem: People look east (Besancon Carol Tune, arr. Barry Ferguson)
Hymn: Hark what a sound, and too divine for hearing (Highwood)
Voluntary: Fugue on the Magnificat BWV 733 (Bach)
Huw Williams (Director of Music)
Adam Field (Sub-Organist)
To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Choral Evensong”.
SUN 16:00 Jazz Record Requests (m002ng9v)
Festive Jazz!
Alyn Shipton presents your choices of jazz in all styles for the festive season, with songs from Dianne Reeves and Bessie Smith, traditional jazz from Sammy Rimington and Chris Barber, as well as a range of more recent Yuletide sounds from musicians including Wayne Shorter and Chick Corea.
Get in touch: jrr@bbc.co.uk or use #jazzrecordrequests on social
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Jazz Record Requests'.
SUN 17:00 The Early Music Show (m002ng9x)
Christmas with Handel
Hannah French visits Handel Hendrix House to explore how Handel may have celebrated his Christmases in 18th-century London. She's joined by the museum's Deputy Director Claire Davies, resident food historian Marc Meltonville and harpsichordist and conductor Laurence Cummings as they delve into the food, wine and music of Handel's festive seasons in Brook Street.
With Yuletide music by Handel himself, alongside pieces by Johann Christoph Pepusch, Gottfried Finger, Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Michael Praetorius, JS Bach and Johann Christoph Pez, with a smattering of carols and wassail tunes thrown in for good measure.
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers) just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play The Early Music Show".
SUN 18:00 Words and Music (m002ngb0)
Twelve Days of Christmas
Partridges, pear trees, gold rings, dancing ladies and leaping lords… the gifts associated with the The Twelve Days of Christmas. The earliest known publication of the words of the perennially popular song were in an illustrated children’s book called ‘Mirth Without Mischief’, published in 1780, although the origins may go back as far as the early 1600s.
Whether those 364 gifts of milk maids, drummers, pipers and assorted birds were actually appreciated is the subject of UA Fanthorpe’s poem Dear True Love, as she ponders on questions such as where exactly are the seven swans going to swim..? William Makepeace Thackeray and Clare Pollard offer us pears, Elizabeth Hands tells of a feisty milkmaid, Dylan Thomas nods to a drum and Charles Dickens, of course, brings the Christmas goose to the table. In Liz Lochhead’s poem we’ll discover how beautifully she decorates her tree and we’ll hear from Ian McMillan as he reads his own festive take, The Twelve Days of Barnsley.
Our music is a mix of Christmas favourites and pieces to reflect the gifts from My True Love. Saint-Saens Le Cygne, Haydn’s Symphony No 83 ‘The Hen’ and Janequin’s Le Chant des Oiseaux encapsulate many of the avian offerings. And of course we have a little something from Ian Partridge. There’s Vítězslava Kaprálová’s Christmas Prelude, Hely-Hutchinson’s Carol Symphony and a little burst of joy from Michael Caine.
We begin with the song itself, today’s familiar version is a 1909 arrangement from the English composer Frederic Austin.
The readers are Olivia Williams and Jake Yapp.
Producer: Elizabeth Foster
SUN 19:15 Sunday Feature (m002ngb4)
One Singular Sensation
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of a musical theatre classic ... huge fan, aspiring dancer, and stage mom Katie Derham tells the extraordinary tale of “Broadway’s saviour”, ‘A Chorus Line’. Derham discovers an amazing creation story, bitter post-show recriminations, and real-life examples of the power of musical theatre to change society and art.
On this journey, Derham tracks down original dance troupe members and recovers the legendary cassette tapes - kept under lock and key - that were recorded by legendary director-choreographer Michael Bennett, and which ignited the entire production process. Listeners will hear - probably for the very first time - the raw, funny and vulnerable voices of the real dancers whose lives inspired the show.
Set against the backdrop of 1970s New York, when Broadway was in decline and Times Square was in disrepair, this documentary traces how a midnight meeting in a draughty rehearsal room became a global theatrical revolution. From rejection and sacrifice to glittering triumph, 'A Chorus Line' revealed the beating heart of the performers who live for the stage, and in doing so, helped save Broadway. Half a century on, its legacy endures: a testament to the power of honesty, artistry and the unbreakable joy of dance.
This programme features contributions from Baayork Lee, Priscilla Lopez, and Donna McKechnie (all original cast members), and Broadway journalist Robert Viagas. From audio archive, it also includes the voice of 'A Chorus Line' creator Michael Bennett, among others.
Presenter: Katie Derham
Producer: Nadia Mehdi
Exec Producer: Jack Howson
Mix Engineer & Sound Design: Will Fitzpatrick
A Peanut & Crumb production for BBC Radio 3
With thanks to John Breglio, Fresh Air and the New York Public Library.
SUN 20:00 Record Review (m002ngb8)
Tchaikovsky's Symphony No.1 (Winter Daydreams)
Jonathan Cross's Building a Library recommendation for a recording of Tchaikovky's Symphony No. 1 'Winter Daydreams', as well as other new releases this week.
SUN 21:00 20th Century Radicals (m002ngbd)
A Very Christmas Radical: Jonathan Harvey
Kate Molleson and Gillian Moore host BBC Radio 3's series exploring the pivotal 'modern' musical works of the 20th century, the groundbreaking composers who created them, and the radical cultural and artistic movements which gave rise to them. In a special seasonal episode, and with prepared sleigh bells at the ready, Kate and Gillian present the radio equivalent of a radical advent calendar, unveiling the various ways in which adventurous composers of the 20th century have explored the themes of Christmas and the festive season in their work. Featuring music from Sun Ra, Robert Ashley and Olivier Messiaen, and leading to a full performance of Jonathan Harvey’s 1986 composition honouring the Virgin Mary, ‘Madonna of Winter and Spring’.
Produced by Sam Phillips
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3
SUN 22:00 Compline (m002ngbh)
Advent 4
A reflective service of night prayer from the Church of Our Most Holy Redeemer, Clerkenwell, London. With words and music for the end of the day, including works by Distler, Maconchy and Soriano.
Introit: Es ist ein Ros Entsprungen (Distler)
Preces (Plainsong)
Hymn: Before the ending of the day (Plainsong)
Psalm 4 (Plainsong)
Reading: Mark 13 vv35-37
Responsory: Into thy hands, O Lord (Plainsong)
Anthem: Nowell, Nowell (Maconchy)
Nunc dimittis: Eighth Tone for Five Voices (Tallis)
Antiphon: Alma Redemptoris Mater (Soriano)
Daniel Gethin (conductor)
To listen on most smart speakers just say “ask BBC Sounds to play Compline”.
SUN 22:30 Night Tracks (m002ngbk)
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.
SUN 23:30 Unclassified (m002ngbm)
Peace on Earth
Elizabeth Alker presents a mix of calm wintery sounds, ambient dreamscapes and tranquil tracks to soundtrack the longest night of the year.
Produced by Geoff Bird
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3
MONDAY 22 DECEMBER 2025
MON 00:30 Through the Night (m002nl17)
Christoph Prégardien sings Schubert's Winterreise
Renowned lyric tenor Christoph Prégardien performs Schubert's song cycle with pianist Michael Gees at a recital given in Switzerland. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Winterreise, D.911
Christoph Prégardien (tenor), Michael Gees (piano)
01:42 AM
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Wandrers Nachtlied, D.768
Christoph Prégardien (tenor), Michael Gees (piano)
01:45 AM
Franz Schubert (1797-1828), arr. Franz Liszt
Wandererfantasie, D760 arranged by Liszt (S.366)
Anton Dikov (piano), Bulgarian National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Alipi Naydenov (conductor)
02:08 AM
Robert Schumann (1810-1856)
Adagio (from Six studies for pedal piano, arr. piano trio, Op 56 no 6)
Altenberg Trio Vienna
02:13 AM
Franz Liszt (1811-1886)
Mazeppa - Symphonic Poem
Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, Juozas Domarkas (conductor)
02:31 AM
Pierre Regnault Sandrin (c.1490-c.1561)
Improvisations on 'Toccata'; 'La Spagna'; H. Butler's Theme; 'Passamezzo antico'
Paolo Pandolfo (viola da gamba), Thomas Boysen (theorbo), Alvaro Garrido (percussion)
03:03 AM
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
3 Studies for piano, Op 104b
Sylviane Deferne (piano)
03:11 AM
Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
Trois Nocturnes
NRCU National Chorus, Lesya Shavlovska (director), NRCU Symphony Orchestra, Vyacheslav Blinov (conductor)
03:34 AM
Anonymous
Greensleeves, to a Ground with Divisions
Elizabeth Wallfisch (baroque violin), Linda Kent (harpsichord), Rosanne Hunt (cello)
03:39 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Komm Jesu, komm, BWV 229 - motet
Voces Suaves, Cafebaum
03:48 AM
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827), arr. Duncan Craig
Romance in G major, Op 40 arr. for viola and piano
Gyözö Máté (viola), Balázs Szokolay (piano)
03:55 AM
Mieczysław Karłowicz (1876-1909)
Chant de l'eternelle aspiration
Orchestre Français des Jeunes, Marek Janowski (director)
04:07 AM
Antoine Reicha (1770-1836)
Trio for French horns, Op 82
Jozef Illéš (french horn), Jan Budzák (french horn), Jaroslav Snobl (french horn)
04:17 AM
George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
Aria "Lascia la spina" - from the oratorio Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno
Anna Reinhold (mezzo soprano), Les Ambassadeurs, Alexis Kossenko (director)
04:23 AM
Alexis Contant (1858-1918), arr. David Passmore
Meditation for violin, cello and piano
Moshe Hammer (violin), Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi (cello), William Tritt (piano)
04:26 AM
Alexis Contant (1858-1918)
La Charmeuse for violin, cello and piano
Moshe Hammer (violin), Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi (cello), William Tritt (piano)
04:31 AM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)
Overture from Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute), K.620
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Christie (conductor)
04:38 AM
Richard Strauss (1864-1949)
Variations on "Deandl is arb auf mi'" for string trio
Leopold String Trio
04:44 AM
Carl Nielsen (1865-1931)
Chaconne for piano, Op 32
Anders Kilström (piano)
04:54 AM
Jorgen Jersild (1913-2004)
3 Danish Romances for Choir
Jutland Chamber Choir, Mogens Dahl (conductor)
05:06 AM
Ruth Gipps (1921-1999)
Seascape, Op 53
BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Jonathan Bloxham (conductor)
05:12 AM
Samuel Capricornus (1628-1665)
Sonata (Continuation der neuen wohl angestimmten Taffel-Lustmusic (1671))
Musica Aeterna Bratislava, Peter Zajicek (director)
05:18 AM
Clara Schumann (1819-1896)
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op 7
Alice Burla (piano), Swiss National Youth Orchestra, Mario Venzago (conductor)
05:40 AM
Herbert Howells (1892-1983)
Requiem
Gabrieli Consort, Paul McCreesh (director)
06:02 AM
Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904)
String Serenade in E major, Op 22
Festival Strings Lucerne, Daniel Dodds (conductor)
MON 06:30 Breakfast (m002ngdq)
Ease into the day with classical music
Tom McKinney presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford. With birdsong, Bach Before 7 and the best in classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
MON 09:30 Essential Classics (m002ngds)
A feast of great music
Ian Skelly plays the best classical music for your morning, with discoveries and surprises rubbing shoulders with familiar favourites. Including the Playlister challenge: our regular listener-created sequence inspired by a different piece of music each day. Plus a new classical release in focus for Album of the Week.
1000 Playlister starter: listen and send us your ideas for the next step in today's musical journey. Text 83111 or email essentialclassics@bbc.co.uk.
1030 Album of the Week: an exciting new classical release in focus throughout the week.
1115 Playlister reveal: an uninterrupted sequence of music suggested by you in response to today's starter piece.
1200 Feast of a Piece: indulge your ears with an orchestral masterpiece.
To listen on most smart speakers say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Essential Classics”
MON 13:00 Classical Live (m002ngdv)
The Holly and the Ivy
Fiona Talkington offers a selection of music-making reflecting Christmas in the home, alongside festive concert recordings from Germany and from our own BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.
Georg Philipp Telemann
Concerto in E major, TWV53:E1
Sabine Stoffer (viola d’amore)
Gustav Friedrichson (oboe d’amore)
Anne Parisot (flute)
Les Passions de l’Âme
Meret Lüthi (violin & director)
Malcolm Arnold
The Holly and the Ivy: A Fantasy on Christmas Carols
WDR Radio Orchestra, Cologne
Johannes Witt (conductor)
Felix Mendelssohn
Six Christmas Pieces, Op. 72
Howard Shelley (piano)
Robert Schumann
Marchenbilder Op. 113
Tabea Zimmerman (viola)
Bertrand Chamayou (piano)
Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky
Nutcracker Suite
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Leslie Suganandarajah (conductor)
Johann Sebastian Bach
Cantata: ‘Darzu ist erschienen ser Sohn Gottes’ BWV. 40
Viola Thurnay (contralto)
Zoltan Megyes (tenor)
Lorant Naibauer (bass)
Hungarian Radio Chorus, Budapest
Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Erik Bosgraaf (recorder/director)
Felix Mendelssohn
'Christe, du Lamm Gottes'
Stuttgart Children's Choir
Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
Frieder Bernius (conductor)
Felix Mendelssohn
Piano Trio in C minor Op. 66
Mithras Trio
Les patineurs
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Leslie Suganandarajah (conductor)
Johannes Brahms
Two Songs Op. 91
Fleur Baron (mezzo)
Tabea Zimmerman (viola)
Bertrand Chamayou (piano)
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers) just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Live'.
MON 16:00 Composer of the Week (m002ngdx)
A Georgian Christmas
At home with Jane Austen
Donald Macleod visits the home of Jane Austen with historian Amanda Vickery to discover some of the seasonal customs and Christmas music of late-Georgian Britain.
Today they discuss what Austen’s writings reveal about celebrations at Christmas time, and how her experiences of this time of year were often quite different to our own. Many of the festive traditions we know and enjoy today only arrived in Britain after Austen’s time. We also hear from some of the local composers who provided Christmas music for Britain’s growing community of amateur choirs.
Thomas Clark: While Shepherds Watched
Psalmody
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
William Matthews: How beauteous are their feet
Claire Tomlin, soprano
Psalmody
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
Anon: The Holly and the Ivy
The Oxford Waits
The Mellstock Band
Viotti: Violin Concerto No 13 in A Major, I. Allegro brillante
Adelina Oprean, violin
European Union Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Jörg Faerber
Handel: Messiah (extracts from Part 1)
Catherine Wyn-Rogers, mezzo-soprano
Mark Padmore, tenor
The Sixteen, directed by Harry Christophers
MON 17:00 In Tune (m002ngdz)
In Tune Christmas Special
Katie Derham and Petroc Trelawny present the In Tune Christmas Special live from the Radio Theatre at Broadcasting House in London, jam-packed with festive cheer and the highlight of the In Tune year.
With special live performances from some of the show’s greatest performer friends, including The Fourth Choir, Connaught Brass, Charles Owen and Katya Apekisheva and jazz legend Jacqui Dankworth and acclaimed comedian and impressionist Jon Culshaw delivers some festive readings.
MON 19:00 Classical Mixtape (m002ngf1)
A feast of seasonal music
Take time out with a 30-minute soundscape of classical music. To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Mixtape'.
MON 19:30 Radio 3 in Concert (m002ngf3)
Handel's Messiah
Radio 3 in Concert goes festive for Christmas week, starting tonight with the English Baroque Soloists and the Monteverdi Choir giving a special performance at St Martin-in-the-Fields in London of Handel's iconic oratorio 'Messiah. The Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists were one of the very first 'period' groups to record the Messiah, and tonight they are joined by an all-star cast of soloists headed by Sarah Connolly, and conducted by the renowned French harpsichordist and conductor, Christophe Rousset.
Recorded at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square London, on 16th December, and presented by Martin Handley.
HANDEL
Messiah
Ana Vieira Leite (soprano)
Sarah Connolly (alto)
Andrew Staples (tenor)
Will Thomas (bass)
Monteverdi Choir
English Baroque Soloists
Christophe Rousset (conductor)
MON 21:52 The Essay (m002ngf5)
Winterreisen
Stevie by Wendy Erskine
A retired librarian takes a train to the city. She’s with her niece’s family, off on their annual festive day out. But Christmastime prompts remembrance of things past.
A new short story by Northern Irish writer Wendy Erskine (The Benefactors, Dance Move) about a winter journey, inspired by Schubert's song cycle.
Read by Siân Thomas
Produced by Fay Lomas, BBC Audio Wales
MON 22:07 Night Tracks (m002ngf7)
A meditative moonlight soundtrack
Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
MON 23:30 'Round Midnight (m002ngf9)
Reuben James' Festive 4/4
‘Round Midnight is presented by award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch. This weekday late-night show celebrates the thriving UK jazz scene and spotlights the best new music alongside incredible acts from past decades.
This week Soweto shares more of the best in jazz and festive favourites.
To listen on most smart speakers just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Round Midnight".
TUESDAY 23 DECEMBER 2025
TUE 00:30 Through the Night (m002nkxt)
Esa-Pekka Salonen's 'kínēma' and Sibelius's Second Symphony
The Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra performs two works by conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, alongside Sibelius's second symphony. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
Esa-Pekka Salonen (b.1958)
Tiu
Miikka Saarinen (trumpet), Tomas Gricius (trumpet), Jonas Silinskas (trumpet), Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor)
12:43 AM
Esa-Pekka Salonen (b.1958)
kínēma, five scenes for solo clarinet and string orchestra
Christoffer Sundqvist (clarinet), Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor)
01:13 AM
Jean Sibelius (1865-1957)
Symphony no 2 in D major, Op 43
Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor)
01:56 AM
Jean Sibelius (1865-1957), arr. Otto Taubmann
Canzonetta, rondo of the lovers – from 'Kuolema' ('Death', incidental music)
Arto Noras (cello), Tapani Valsta (piano)
01:59 AM
Ernst Mielck (1877-1899)
String Quintet in F major, Op 3
Erkki Palola (violin), Anne Paavilainen (violin), Matti Hirvikangas (viola), Teema Kupiainen (viola), Risto Poutanen (cello)
02:23 AM
Toivo Kuula (1883-1918)
Tranquillamente from 3 Satukuvaa (Fairy tale pictures) for piano, Op 19 no 3
Liisa Pohjola (piano)
02:31 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Magnificat in D major, BWV 243
Antonella Balducci (soprano), Ulrike Clausen (alto), Frieder Lang (tenor), Fulvio Bettini (baritone), Chorus of Swiss-Italian Radio, Ensemble Vanitas Lugano, Diego Fasolis (conductor)
02:58 AM
Fryderyk Chopin (1810-1849)
12 Studies Op 10 for piano
Lukas Geniušas (piano)
03:29 AM
Adam Jarzebski (1590-1649)
Corona Aurea: concerto a 2 for cornett and violin
Bruce Dickey (cornetto), Lucy van Dael (violin), Richte van der Meer (cello), Reiner Zipperling (cello), Jacques Ogg (harpsichord), Anthony Woodrow (double bass)
03:35 AM
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)
Norwegian Dance (Allegro marcato), Op 35 no 1
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Litton (conductor)
03:41 AM
Dora Pejačević (1885-1923), Rainer Maria Rilke (lyricist)
Mädchengestalten, Op 42
Franziska Heinzen (soprano), Benjamin Mead (piano)
03:51 AM
Manuel Maria Ponce (1882-1948)
Guitar Preludes Nos 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Heiki Mätlik (guitar)
03:58 AM
Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un faune
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Ilan Volkov (conductor)
04:09 AM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)
String Quartet in D major, K 155
Australian String Quartet
04:19 AM
John Field (1782-1837)
Aria; Nocturne & Chanson
Barry Douglas (piano), Camerata Ireland
04:27 AM
Erkki Melartin (1875-1937)
Leivo , Op 138 no 2
Sauli Tiilikainen (baritone), Markus Lehtinen (piano)
04:31 AM
Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
Concerto VIII in A minor for 2 violins, strings and continuo, RV 522
Paul Wright (violin), Sayuri Yamagata (violin), Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Paul Dyer (conductor)
04:42 AM
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Piano Sonata in G major, H.
16.27
Niklas Sivelöv (piano)
04:53 AM
Peter Erasmus Lange-Muller (1850-1926)
Tre Madonnasange, Op 65
Danish National Radio Choir, Stefan Parkman (conductor)
04:59 AM
Isaac Albéniz (1860-1909)
Cordoba (Nocturne) from Cantos de Espana, Op 232 no 4
Henry-David Varema (cello), Heiki Mätlik (guitar)
05:06 AM
Hector Berlioz (1803-1869)
Waverley - overture, Op 1
Radio Bratislava Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenárd (conductor)
05:17 AM
Domenico Scarlatti (1685-1757)
Sonata in G minor (K 88) arranged for 2 harpsichords
Dagmara Kapczyńska (harpsichord), Gwennaëlle Alibert (harpsichord)
05:26 AM
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Piano Sonata no 15 in D major, Op 28 'Pastoral'
Ji-Yeong Mun (piano)
05:52 AM
Henriëtte Bosmans (1895-1952)
Cello Concerto no 2
Gemma Rosefield (cello), BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Jonathan Bloxham (conductor)
06:18 AM
Michael Haydn (1737-1806)
Ave Regina for double choir, MH.140
Ex Tempore, Florian Heyerick (director)
TUE 06:30 Breakfast (m002ngg8)
Rise and shine with classical music
Tom McKinney presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford. With birdsong, Bach Before 7 and the best in classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
TUE 09:30 Essential Classics (m002nggb)
Your perfect classical playlist
Ian Skelly plays the best classical music for your morning, with discoveries and surprises rubbing shoulders with familiar favourites. Including the Playlister challenge: our regular listener-created sequence inspired by a different piece of music each day. Plus a new classical release in focus for Album of the Week.
1000 Playlister starter: listen and send us your ideas for the next step in today's musical journey. Text 83111 or email essentialclassics@bbc.co.uk.
1030 Album of the Week: an exciting new classical release in focus throughout the week.
1115 Playlister reveal: an uninterrupted sequence of music suggested by you in response to today's starter piece.
1200 Feast of a Piece: indulge your ears with an orchestral masterpiece.
To listen on most smart speakers say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Essential Classics”
TUE 13:00 Classical Live (m002nggd)
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's Christmas Cantata
Mark Forrest introduces specially recorded performances of music for the Christmas period, from Giovanni Gabrieli to Irving Berlin, for all ages, sacred and profane.
Including:
Ottorino Respighi
Trittico Botticelliano
WDR Symphony Orchestra
Cristian Macalaru (conductor)
Giovanni Gabrieli
Canzone a tre voce
Intonozione
Hodie Christus natus est a 7
La Venexiana
Claudio Cavina (conductor)
Christoph Graupner
Suite in G major, GWV. 458
Germán Echeverri (viola d’amore)
Gabriele Gombi (bassoon)
Les Passions de l’Âme
Meret Lüthi (director)
Paul Hindemith
Dance of the Wooden Dolls, from 'Tuttifäntchen Suite'
WDR Radio Orchestra, Cologne
Johannes Witt (conductor)
Claude Debussy (arr. Hans Abrahamsen)
Children’s Corner
Norwegian Radio Orchestra
Ilan Volkov (conductor)
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Piano Concerto No. 22 in E flat, K. 482
Julius Asal (piano)
Academy of St Martin-in-the-Fields
Jacqueline Shave (director)
Leroy Anderson
A Christmas Festival
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Leslie Suganandarajah (conductor)
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
'Auf, schicke Dich recht feierlich', Wq. 249 (Christmas Cantata)
Hana Blažíková (soprano)
Jan Börner (countertenor)
Mirko Ludwig (tenor)
Dominik Wörner (bass)
Les Passions de l’Âme
Meret Luthi (director)
Irving Berlin
White Christmas (arr. violin & orchestra)
Juraj Cizmarovic, (violin)
WDR Radio Orchestra, Cologne
Johannes Witt (conductor)
Duke Ellington
Nutcracker Suite
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Leslie Suganandarajah (conductor)
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers) just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Live'.
TUE 16:00 Composer of the Week (m002nggg)
A Georgian Christmas
Winter Balls
Donald Macleod visits the home of Jane Austen with historian Amanda Vickery, to discover some of the seasonal customs and Christmas music of late-Georgian Britain.
Today they discuss a regular and popular feature of the social season in December: Christmas dances. We’ll hear how Jane Austen enjoyed dancing at grand stately homes and also within the more humble surroundings of the family drawing-room, with the furniture pushed back to make room. Balls were a perfect occasion to court the attentions of a future husband or wife, and we also hear about Jane Austen’s own Christmastide romance.
Cimarosa: L'Olimpiade: Sinfonia
Les Talens Lyriques, directed by Christophe Rousset
Thomas Wilson: Wellington's Triumph
The Fortuna Trio
Thomas Straight: Trip to Vauxhall, Sailor Laddie
The Birmingham Baroque Collective
Weber (orch Berlioz): Aufforderung zum Tanz
Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Herbert von Karajan
Handel: Messiah (end of Part 1)
Arleen Auger, soprano
Anne Sofie von Otter, mezzo-soprano
The English Concert Choir
The English Concert, directed by Trevor Pinnock
TUE 17:00 In Tune (m002nggj)
Christmas classical with Petroc Trelawny
Petroc Trelawny talks to John Robinson, Director of Music at Blackburn Cathedral, and hears about the cathedral's preparations for the busiest time of the liturgical year.
Nicola Benedetti, Isata Kanneh-Mason and John Wilson introduce their favourite Christmas music, and Petroc revisits festive live music highlights from the In Tune studio.
TUE 19:00 Classical Mixtape (m002nggl)
A festive classical mix
Take time out with a 30-minute soundscape of Christmassy classical music, packed with familiar favourites and lesser-known gems of seasonal repertoire.
TUE 19:30 Radio 3 in Concert (m002nggn)
The Sixteen's Yuletide Concert
In the second of Radio 3 in Concert's special programmes for Christmas Week, Harry Christophers and The Sixteen take us on a musical journey that celebrates the heart of Christmas - a humble birth surrounded by heavenly song. Their atmospheric concert, performed at Cadogan Hall in London, stretches from medieval melodies to contemporary favourites, and is full of the magic of Christmas.
Recorded at Cadogan Hall in London on 18th December, and presented by Martin Handley.
MEDIEVAL
Alma redemptoris mater
WARLOCK
I Saw a Fair Maiden
ALEOTTI
Facta est cum angelo
MONTGOMERY, arr. HIGGINBOTTOM
Angels from the Realms of Glory
PALESTRINA
A solis ortu cardine
TRAD.
Cherry Tree Carol (Joseph was an Old Man)
LUCY WALKER
Ave virgo sanctissima
JAMES BASSI
Quem pastores laudavere
LUCY WALKER
The Angels’ Song
ALEOTTI
When Christ was Born of Mary Free
ALEOTTI
Angelus ad pastores
TRAD. (Basque)
I Saw a Maiden
BOB CHILCOTT
The Shepherd’s Carol
GOSS
See, Amid the Winter’s Snow
PHILLIP A. COOKE
I Sing of a Maiden
SHEPPARD
A solis ortu cardine
ALAN BULLARD
Sweet Babe, Sang She
GUERRERO
Ave virgo sanctissima
PARRY
When Christ was Born of Mary Free
The Sixteen
Harry Christophers (director)
TUE 21:45 The Essay (m002nggq)
Winterreisen
Winter Machine by Jo Lloyd
In a twist on the old tales, owl-woman Blodeuwedd undergoes a new transformation, which leaves her travelling through a world of winter.
A new short story by Welsh writer Jo Lloyd about a winter journey, inspired by Schubert’s song cycle.
Read by Morfydd Clark
Produced by Fay Lomas, BBC Audio Wales
TUE 22:00 Night Tracks (m002nggs)
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.
TUE 23:30 'Round Midnight (m002nggv)
Swinging through the yuletide week
‘Round Midnight is presented by award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch. This weekday late-night show celebrates the thriving UK jazz scene and spotlights the best new music alongside incredible acts from past decades.
This week Soweto shares more of the best in jazz and festive favourites.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Round Midnight'.
WEDNESDAY 24 DECEMBER 2025
WED 00:30 Through the Night (m002nl6z)
Christmas with the Danish Radio Vocal Ensemble
An Anglo-French Christmas programme from Copenhagen including Britten's A Ceremony of Carols and Poulenc's Quatre Motets pour le temps de Noël. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
Francis Grier (b.1955)
The Virgin has given birth to a Saviour
Danish Radio Vocal Ensemble, Martina Batič (conductor)
12:37 AM
Pierre Villette (1926-1998)
Hymne à la Vierge
Danish Radio Vocal Ensemble, Martina Batič (conductor)
12:41 AM
Francis Poulenc (1899-1963)
Quatre Motets pour le temps de Noël, FP 152
Danish Radio Vocal Ensemble, Martina Batič (conductor)
12:53 AM
Benjamin Britten (1913-1976), arr. Julius Harrison
A Ceremony of Carols, Op 28
Danish Radio Vocal Ensemble, Zachary Hatcher (harp), Martina Batič (conductor)
01:20 AM
Josef Suk (1949-2011)
A Winter's tale, Op 9
Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rudolf Vasata (conductor)
01:36 AM
Anonymous
Alma Redemptoris Mater (Christmas carol)
Zefiro Torna
01:41 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Musical Offering in C minor, BWV.1079
Nova Stravaganza, Wilbert Hazelzet (flute), Lisa Marie Landgraf (violin), Dimitri Dichtiar (cello), Siegbert Rampe (harpsichord)
02:31 AM
Edward Elgar (1857-1934)
Violin Concerto in B minor, Op 61
Nikolaj Znaider (violin), Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Andrew Litton (conductor)
03:19 AM
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893), Markus Theinert (arranger)
The Nutcracker Suite, Op 71a
Brass Consort Köln
03:27 AM
Carl Nielsen (1865-1931)
Hjemlige jul (Christmas at home)
Fionian Chamber Choir, Alice Granum (director)
03:30 AM
Michael Praetorius (1571-1621)
In dulci jubilo
Paul Høxbro (recorder), Fionian Chamber Choir, Alice Granum (director), Unknown (tabor)
03:33 AM
Hector Berlioz (1803-1869)
Trio des Ismaelites from "L'enfance du Christ"
Nora Shulman (flute), Virginia Markson (flute), Judy Loman (harp)
03:40 AM
Fryderyk Chopin (1810-1849)
4 Mazurkas, Op 30
Aimi Kobayashi (piano)
03:51 AM
Anonymous
Jesu Cristes milde moder (Jesus Christ's gentle mother)
Sequentia
03:57 AM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791), arr. Zóltan Kocsis
Concert rondo for horn and orchestra in E flat major, K.371
László Gál (horn), Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra, Zóltan Kocsis (conductor)
04:04 AM
Louis Vierne (1870-1937)
Clair de lune - no 5 from Pieces de fantaisie: suite for organ no 2, Op 53
Stanislas Deriemaeker (organ)
04:15 AM
Marc Heyral, arr. Gaston Rochon / Henri Contet (author)
Le Noel de la Rue (1952)
Richard Paré (harpsichord), Les chanteurs de Saint-Cœur-de-Marie, Claude Gosselin (conductor)
04:20 AM
Johann Friedrich Fasch (1688-1758)
Quartet in F major for horn, oboe d'amore, violin and basso continuo, FWV N:F3
Les Ambassadeurs
04:27 AM
Peter Cornelius (1824-1874), arr. Ruth Watson Henderson
Three Kings
Ben Heppner (tenor), Toronto Children's Chorus, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Jean Ashworth Bartle (conductor)
04:31 AM
Carli Scherrer, arr. Corsin Tuor
Zuola roda, zuola
Brassband Bürgermusik, Luzern, Corsin Tuor (conductor)
04:34 AM
Petko Stainov (1896-1977), Trifon Kunev (lyricist)
A fir tree is bending
Vassil Arnaudov Sofia Chamber Choir, Theodora Pavlovitch (conductor)
04:38 AM
Ilmari Hannikainen (1892-1955)
Ensilumi - First snow
Risto Kyrö (piano)
04:43 AM
Anonymous
Lullay, Lullow (carol)
Zefiro Torna
04:46 AM
Anonymous
Natali regis glorie (hymn)
Zefiro Torna
04:50 AM
Jean Sibelius (1865-1957)
Pohjola's daughter - symphonic fantasia, Op 49
Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Paavo Berglund (conductor)
05:04 AM
Traditional German, arr. John Rutter
Still, still, still
Toronto Mendelssohn Youth Choir, John Rutter (conductor)
05:06 AM
John Ireland (1879-1962)
The Holy boy, arr. orchestra
BBC Concert Orchestra, David Hill (conductor)
05:09 AM
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Piano Trio in A major H.
15.18
Atos Trio
05:24 AM
Arcangelo Corelli (1653-1713)
Concerto grosso in G minor, Op 6 No 8, 'per la notte di Natale'
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Roy Goodman (conductor)
05:39 AM
Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
The Lark Ascending
Pekka Kuusisto (violin), Basel Symphony Orchestra, Ivor Bolton (conductor)
05:55 AM
Jan Dismas Zelenka (1679-1745)
Missa Nativitatis Domini, ZWV.8
Barbora Sojková (soprano), Stanislava Mihalcová (soprano), Marta Fadljevicová (mezzo soprano), Markéta Cukrová (contralto), Sylva Cmugrová (contralto), Daniela Cermáková (contralto), Jarosla Brezina (tenor), Cenek Svoboda (tenor), Tomáš Král (baritone), Jaromír Nosek (bass), Musica Florea, Marek Stryncl (director)
WED 06:30 Breakfast (m002ngc5)
Breakfast with the best classical music
Tom McKinney presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford. With birdsong, Bach Before 7 and the best in classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
WED 09:30 Essential Classics (m002ngc7)
Great classical music for your morning
Ian Skelly plays the best classical music for your morning, with discoveries and surprises rubbing shoulders with familiar favourites. Including the Playlister challenge: our regular listener-created sequence inspired by a different piece of music each day. Plus a new classical release in focus for Album of the Week.
1000 Playlister starter: listen and send us your ideas for the next step in today's musical journey. Text 83111 or email essentialclassics@bbc.co.uk.
1030 Album of the Week: an exciting new classical release in focus throughout the week.
1115 Playlister reveal: an uninterrupted sequence of music suggested by you in response to today's starter piece.
1200 Feast of a Piece: indulge your ears with an orchestral masterpiece.
To listen on most smart speakers say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Essential Classics”
WED 13:00 Classical Live (m002ngc9)
Delalande's Symphonies des Noels
Mark Forrest with a selection of specially recorded music from across Europe for Christmas Eve including highlights from a festive concert given in Germany by Freiburg Baroque Orchestra.
Including:
Josef Strauss
Winterlust (Polka) Op. 121
WDR Radio Orchestra, Cologne
Johannes Witt (conductor)
Michel Richard Delalande
Symphonies des Noels
Freiburg Baroque Orchestra
Gottfried von der Goltz (direction)
Richard Wagner
Siegfried Idyll
Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra
Maxim Emelyanychev (conductor)
Giovanni Gabrieli
Canzona primi toni a8
Andrea Gabrieli
Quem vidistis pastores a8
La Venexiana
Claudio Cavina (conductor)
Antonio Vivaldi
Violin Concerto in E major, RV. 270 ('Il riposo, per il Santissimo Natale')
Freiburg Baroque Orchestra
Gottfried von der Goltz (violin & direction)
Antonio Caldara
'Quel pargoletto', from 'Vaticini di pace' (Christmas Cantata )
Freiburg Baroque Orchestra
Gottfried von der Goltz (direction)
Christian August Jacobi
'Der Himmel steht uns wieder offen' (Christmas Cantata)
Julia Lezhneva (soprano)
Freiburg Baroque Orchestra
Gottfried von der Goltz (direction)
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers) just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Live'.
WED 15:00 Choral Evensong (m002ngcc)
St Martin-in-the-Fields
A service of Choral Evensong with Carols for Christmas Eve from St Martin-in-the-Fields, London.
Introit: Mid-winter (Bob Chilcott)
Carol: Joy to the world (Antioch, arr. Rutter)
Responses: Forbes L'Estrange
Psalm 85 (Lucy Walker)
First Lesson: Zechariah 2 vv1-13
Carol: Infant Holy (Bob Chilcott) (World Premiere)
Canticles: Christiana Canticles (John Rutter)
Second Lesson: Revelation 1 vv1-8
Anthem: What sweeter music (John Rutter)
Prayer Anthem: The Shepherd’s Carol (Bob Chilcott)
Carol: Ding, dong! merrily on high (Trad. French, arr. Wood)
Carol: God rest you merry gentlemen (Trad. English, arr. Willcocks)
Voluntary: Prelude on God rest you merry gentlemen (John Rutter)
St Martin’s Voices
Andrew Earis (Director of Music)
Andreana Chan (Organist)
Recorded 2 December.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Choral Evensong'.
WED 16:00 Composer of the Week (m002ngcf)
A Georgian Christmas
Church and Country
Donald Macleod visits the home of Jane Austen with historian Amanda Vickery to discover some of the seasonal customs and Christmas music of late-Georgian Britain.
Today, Donald and Amanda explore some of the varied church music on offer to Christmas congregations during the Georgian era – and they examine what the many memorable clergymen from Austen’s novels tell us about the changing role of the church in national life.
Trad (arr. Townsend): Arise and Hail the Joyful Day (Arr. Townsend)
The Mellstock Band and Choir
Trad.: Awake, and join the cheerful choir
Anonymous 4
Andrew Lawrence-King, Baroque harp
Attrib. Wade (arr. Vincent Novello): O come, all ye faithful
Philippa Hyde, soprano
Timothy Kenworthy-Brown, alto
Patrick McCarthy, tenor
Julian Perkins, bass
Psalmody
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
Arr. Thomas Butts: Hark! how all the welkin rings
The Parley of Instruments, Psalmody, conducted by Peter Holman
Attwood: O God, Who by the Leading of a Star
Musica Sacra, directed by Indra Hughes
Mendelssohn: The Evening Bell
Silke Aichhorn, harp
Sabrina von Lüdinghausen, Harp
Handel: Messiah (Extract from Part II)
Carolyn Watkinson, mezzo-soprano
Paul Elliott, tenor
Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford
The Academy of Ancient Music, directed by Christopher Hogwood
WED 17:00 In Tune (m002ngcj)
Christmas Eve with Petroc Trelawny
Petroc Trelawny is in studio celebrating Christmas Eve, with a selection of festive music and contributions from Darcey Bussell, Sir Willard White and Barbara Hannigan.
WED 19:00 Classical Mixtape (m002ngcl)
Enjoy the seasons most loved classical music
Take time out with a 30-minute soundscape of seasonal classical music. Tonight's classical mixtape begins with Max Richter's take on Vivaldi's Winter. The sound of the harp drifts through this wintery night in Salzedo's emphatic study for harp, shortly followed by the harrowing and thought-provoking Coventry Carol. Tchaikovsky reminds us what December sounds like in his version of The Seasons for solo piano and Katia Beaugeais sonically paints the sound of snowdrops in her piece for string orchestra - Like Snowdrops You Will Shine. We hear the innocent sound of the Westminster Cathedral Boy's Choir in Britten's Wolcum Yole! from his Ceremony of Carols, followed by Bach's Sinfonia from his Weihnachts-Oratorium. Tonight's mixtape finishes with John Gardner's jolly carol - Tomorrow shall be my dancing day - which we hope it certainly will be for all.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Mixtape'.
Producer: Zara Siddiqi
WED 19:30 Radio 3 in Concert (m002ngcn)
A Christmas Odyssey
The BBC Singers and Principal Guest Conductor Owain Park are joined by musicians from Aurora Orchestra, Iain Farrington and actor Adrian Scarborough (History Boys, Gavin and Stacey) on a Christmas journey of carols & literature. This festive treat brings you the nation’s favourite Christmas carols and music, alongside readings from John Masefield’s classic The Box of Delights, Hardy’s Under the Greenwood Tree and Charles Dickens' lesser-known masterpiece, Doctor Marigold.
Introduced by Ian Skelly and recorded at Milton Court, London on 11 December 2025.
Paul Williams arr. Ryan O’Connell & Jonathan Wikeley: A Muppet Christmas Carol Medley
Sir John Rutter: The Holly and the Ivy
Iain Farrington: Nova, Nova
Adrian Peacock orch. Owain Park: Venite, Gaudete!
Mykola Leontovych arr. Peter J Wilhousky: Carol of the Bells
Iain Farrington: A Carvery of Carols
Trad. arr. Geoffrey Keating: The Twelve Days of Christmas
Trad. arr. Stuart Nicholson, arr. Jonathan Wikeley: Ding! Dong! Merrily on High
20:22 Interval
Thomas Hewitt Jones: Destination Christmas
Elizabeth Poston arr. Jonathan Wikeley: Balulalow
Rodgers / Trad. arr.Sarah Latto: Little Girl Blue / Emmanuel
Trad arr. Jonathan Miller: God rest ye merry gentlemen
Iain Farrington: We wish you a merry Christmas
Bob Chilcott: Somehow not only for Christmas
Johnny Marks arr. Bob Chilcott: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Trad./Martin/Blane arr. Bob Chilcott: Deck the Hall /Have yourself a merry little Christmas
BBC Singers
Musicians from Aurora Orchestra
Iain Farrington (piano)
Adrian Scarborough (narrator)
Owain Park (conductor)
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert'.
WED 21:45 The Essay (m002ngcq)
Winterreisen
Frozen Tears by Mark Haddon
Ellie has been trying, but failing, to break up with her boyfriend. And now it's Christmas and they're both staying in Ellie's mum's house in the countryside.
A new short story by Mark Haddon (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time) about a winter journey, inspired by Schubert's song cycle. Read by Lydia Wilson (Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue, About Time, The Maids).
Produced by Emma Harding, BBC Audio Wales
WED 22:00 Night Tracks (m002ngct)
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.
WED 23:30 'Round Midnight (m002ngcw)
Twas ‘Round Midnight before Christmas
‘Round Midnight is presented by award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch. This weekday late-night show celebrates the thriving UK jazz scene and spotlights the best new music alongside incredible acts from past decades.
This week Soweto shares more of the best in jazz and festive favourites.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Round Midnight'.
THURSDAY 25 DECEMBER 2025
THU 00:30 Through the Night (m002nl75)
Marin Alsop conducts the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra
Colin Currie plays James MacMillan's Concerto for Percussion "Veni, Veni, Emmanuel" with the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice. Marin Alsop leads the orchestra in Schumann's 3rd symphony. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson (1932-2004)
Christmas Overture
Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice, Marin Alsop (conductor)
12:37 AM
Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Fantasia on Greensleeves
Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice, Marin Alsop (conductor)
12:43 AM
James MacMillan (b.1959)
Veni, Veni, Emmanuel - Concerto for percussion and orchestra
Colin Currie (percussion), Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice, Marin Alsop (conductor)
01:13 AM
Robert Schumann (1810-1856)
Symphony no 3 in E flat, Op 97 'Rhenish'
Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice, Marin Alsop (conductor)
01:44 AM
Christopher Simpson (c.1605-1669)
The Four Seasons - Winter
Les Voix Humaines
02:00 AM
Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Hodie - A Christmas Cantata - Prologue
Hungarian Radio Choir, Hungarian Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra, Tamás Vásáry (conductor)
02:04 AM
Marcel Dupré (1886-1971)
Variations on "Adeste Fideles"
Tong-Soon Kwak (organ)
02:12 AM
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)
Dance of the Jesters, extract The Snow Maiden, Op 12
Baltic Sea Youth Philharmonic, Kristjan Järvi (conductor)
02:17 AM
Kaspar Förster (1616-1673)
Ah, peccatores graves
Marcin Zalewski (bass viol), Macin Skotnicki (flute), Agata Sapiecha (violin), Dirk Snellings (bass), Olga Pasiecznik (soprano), Il Tempo Ensemble
02:25 AM
Robert Schumann (1810-1856), transc. Franz Liszt
Widmung S.566, transcribed for piano
Zheeyoung Moon (piano)
02:31 AM
Alessandro Scarlatti (1660-1725), Silvio Stampiglia (author)
Cinque Profeti – Christmas Cantata
Barbara Schlick (soprano), Heike Hallaschka (soprano), Kai Wessel (alto), Christoph Prégardien (tenor), Michael Schopper (bass), Vokalensemble La Stagione, Michael Schneider (director)
03:31 AM
André Jolivet (1905-1974)
Pastorale de Noël
Andrea Kollé (flute), Maria Wildhaber (bassoon), Sarah Verrue (harp)
03:43 AM
Bernat Vivancos (b.1973)
A Child is born
Latvijas Radio Koris, Sigvards Kļava (conductor)
03:52 AM
Traditional
Three Carols
Brass Consort Köln
04:01 AM
Dietrich Buxtehude (1637-1707)
Jubilate Domino, omnis terra, BuxWV.64
Bogna Bartosz (contralto), Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Ton Koopman (conductor)
04:09 AM
Keith Jarrett (b.1945), arr. François Vallières
The Köln Concert - Part IIc
Quatuor Classica
04:16 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Nur ein wink von seinen Händchen, from Christmas Oratorio, part 6 (BWV.248)
Marita Kvarving Sølberg (soprano), Norwegian Radio Orchestra, Ketil Haugsand (conductor)
04:20 AM
Mirko Krajči (b.1968)
Four Dances from the ballet 'Don Juan' (2007)
Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Mirko Krajči (conductor)
04:28 AM
Boris Ord (1897-1961)
Adam lay ybounden - carol
Toronto Mendelssohn Youth Choir, John Rutter (conductor)
04:31 AM
Károly Goldmark (1830-1915)
Ein Wintermarchen (A winter's tale) - Overture
Hungarian Radio Orchestra, Ervin Lukács (conductor)
04:40 AM
George Frideric Handel (1685-1759)
For unto us a child is born - from Messiah
Tafelmusik Chamber Choir, Tafelmusik Orchestra, Ivars Taurins (conductor)
04:45 AM
Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
The Snow is Dancing - from Children's Corner
Roger Woodward (piano)
04:47 AM
Mel Tormé,Irving Berlin (1888-1989),Hugh Martin (1944-2011), arr. Howard Cable
Christmas Medley
Louis Quilico (baritone), Gino Quilico (baritone), Toronto Children's Chorus, Judy Loman (harp), Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Jean Ashworth Bartle (conductor)
04:54 AM
Richard Strauss (1864-1949)
Traumerei am Kamin: Symphonic interlude no.2 from Intermezzo, Op 72
Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis (conductor)
05:01 AM
Anna Clyne (1980-)
In thy Beauty
Helsinki Chamber Choir, Finnish Baroque Orchestra, Nils Schweckendiek (conductor)
05:08 AM
Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
Concerto for 2 trumpets and orchestra in C major, RV.537
Anton Grčar (trumpet), Stanko Arnold (trumpet), RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra, Marko Munih (conductor)
05:16 AM
Nigel Westlake (b.1958)
Winter in the Forgotten Valley
Guitar Trek, Timothy Kain (guitar), Fiona Walsh (guitar), Richard Strasser (guitar), Peter Constant (guitar)
05:28 AM
Andrew Ford (b.1957)
Wassails and Lullabies
Anne Cooke (soprano), Matthew Baker (bass), Ian Cleworth (percussion), Rebecca Lagos (percussion), Brian Nixon (percussion), Sydney Philharmonia Motet Choir, Antony Walker (conductor)
05:47 AM
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)
Act II of The Nutcracker – complete ballet (Op.71)
BBC Philharmonic, Vassily Sinaisky (conductor)
THU 06:30 Breakfast (m002nl9j)
Tom McKinney presents a special festive edition of Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford on Christmas Day. With birdsong, Bach Before 7 and the best in yuletide classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
THU 09:30 Christmas Morning Live (m002nl9l)
Whether you’re celebrating with family or spending time on your own, Petroc Trelawny has assembled the perfect selection of festive guests to brighten and enliven your morning.
The live music includes carols from Max Barley and the Choir of Holy Trinity Sloane Square, performances by eminent pianist Imogen Cooper, and heartwarming Christmas standards from jazz singer Sandra-Mae Lux and pianist Christian Vaughan.
And in the best traditions of Christmas Day, there will be delicious treats and surprises along the way.
THU 13:00 A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols (m002nl9n)
Christmas 2025
A service of carols, hymns and readings live from the candlelit Chapel of King's College, Cambridge.
Hymn: Once in royal David's City (Irby, descant Willcocks)
Bidding Prayer (read by the Dean)
Carol: The blessed son of God (Ralph Vaughan Williams)
First lesson: Genesis 3 vv. 8-19 (read by a Chorister)
Carol: Adam lay ybounden (Boris Ord)
Second lesson: Genesis 22 vv. 15-19 (read by a College student)
Carol: Nowell, nowell, nowell (Elizabeth Maconchy)
Third lesson: Isaiah 9 vv. 2, 6-7 (read by a member of College staff)
Carol: On Christmas night (trad. arr. Philip Ledger)
Hymn: It came upon the midnight clear (Noel, descant Scott)
Fourth lesson: Isaiah 11 vv. 1-9 (read by a representative of Eton College)
Carol: The Darkling Thrush (Rachel Portman) – 2025 commission
Carol: The Lamb (John Tavener)
Fifth lesson: Luke 1 vv. 26-38 (read by a Fellow)
Carol: Ave Maria (Anton Bruckner)
Carol: There is no rose (anon. transc. Stevens)
Sixth lesson: Luke 2 vv. 1-7 (read by the Mayor of Cambridge)
Carol: A boy was born (Benjamin Britten)
Hymn: Unto us is born a Son (Piae Cantiones arr. Willcocks)
Seventh lesson: Luke 2 vv. 8-20 (read by the Director of Music)
Carol: Nativity Carol (John Rutter)
Carol: The shepherds’ farewell (Hector Berlioz)
Eighth lesson: Matthew 2 vv. 1-12 (read by the Vice-Provost)
Carol: Dormi Jesu (John Rutter)
Carol: I saw three ships (Stuart Nicholson)
Ninth lesson: John 1 vv. 1-14 (read by the Provost)
Hymn: O come, all ye faithful (Adeste Fideles, arr. Willcocks, Daniel Hyde)
Collect and Blessing
Hymn: Hark, the herald angels sing (Mendelssohn, arr. Willcocks)
Organ voluntaries:
In dulci jubilo, BWV 729 (Bach)
Dieu parmi nous (Messiaen)
Revd. Dr. Stephen Cherry (Dean)
Daniel Hyde (Director of Music)
Revd. Dr. Jonathan Kimber (Chaplain)
Harrison Cole (Assisting Organist)
For millions listening around the world, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, live from the candlelit Chapel of King's College, Cambridge, marks the beginning of Christmas. The service is based around nine Bible readings which tell the story of the loving purposes of God. They are interspersed with carols old and new, sung by the world-famous Chapel choir who also lead the congregation in traditional Christmas hymns.
A new work has been commissioned for the Christmas Eve service every year since 1983, and this year Rachel Portman has written The Darkling Thrush.
A number of pieces by twentieth century composers such as Elizabeth Maconchy, John Tavener and Benjamin Britten sit alongside traditional carols. The service includes two pieces by Sir John Rutter who celebrated his 80th birthday earlier this year.
Producer: Katharine Longworth
THU 14:40 BBC Proms (m002nl9q)
Proms at Christmas 2025
BBC Proms: András Schiff Plays Bach
András Schiff plays Bach's Art of Fugue at the BBC Proms
Recorded at the Royal Albert Hall on 23rd August, 2025.
Presented by Martin Handley
Johann Sebastian Bach: The Art of Fugue
András Schiff (piano)
Schaghajegh Nosrati (piano)
‘The greatest work by the greatest composer who ever lived.’ That’s how the celebrated pianist Sir András Schiff has described Bach’s The Art of Fugue. Following acclaimed Proms performances of The Well-Tempered Clavier and the ‘Goldberg’ Variations, Schiff returns to the Proms for a musical high point of his career-long relationship with Bach’s music. Here he squares up to a musical enigma, a cycle left unfinished at the composer’s death that represents the most complex, inventive, intimate and joyful act of creation. He’s joined for one of the work’s fugues by German pianist and long-time collaborator Schaghajegh Nosrati.
THU 16:00 Composer of the Week (m002nl9s)
A Georgian Christmas
Family Entertainments
Donald Macleod visits the home of Jane Austen with historian Amanda Vickery to discover some of the seasonal customs and Christmas music of late-Georgian Britain.
Christmas has always been a time to spend at home, with friends and family. Donald and Amanda look at how households amused themselves during the festive holidays, with music making and traditional party games.
Jarman: There were shepherds abiding
Psalmody
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
John Wainwright: Christians, awake, salute the happy morn
Luke Green, organ
Psalmody, conducted by Peter Holman
Pleyel: Symphony No.12 in E flat, III. Menuetto & IV. Rondo
NTO Tonkünstlerorchester, conducted by Carlos Kalmar
Wesley: Rondo on God Rest You Merry Gentlemen
Timothy Roberts, fortepiano
Handel: Messiah (excerpt from part II)
Elizabeth Watts, soprano
Catherine Wyn-Rogers, alto
Mark Le Brocq, tenor
James Oldfield, bass
Huddersfield Choral Society
Northern Sinfonia, conducted by Jane Glover
THU 17:00 Words and Music (m001yyzj)
Betjeman's World
...Ringers in an oil-lit belfry - Bitton? Kelston? who shall say? -
Smoothly practicing a plain course, caverned out the dying day
As their melancholy music flooded up and ebbed away...
Today's Words and Music hears BBC archive recordings of Betjeman performing some of his best-loved poems - A Subaltern's Love Song and Christmas - and excerpts from broadcasts he gave on two of his passions: Victorian Architecture and the regional railway. Tamsin Greig reads more of his poetry, including his tender tribute to his dead father, On a Portrait of a Deaf Man, alongside assessments of the poet from the likes of Alan Bennett and former chair of the Arts Council Lord Goodman.
The world Betjeman evokes is one in which beauty is prized above all else - not a Romantic ideal of beauty but an everyday kind of beauty: the beauty of a still day at the seaside, the beauty of a peal of bells across a landscape, and yes, the beauty of the women who were frequently his muses. A man of his time, he was simultaneously nostalgic for the past and ahead of the curve in many respects. His acute observation, his wit, and his palpable passions fill his work with a genuineness that brings his subjects to life vividly and directly.
The music we hear ranges from Grace Williams's Welsh seascape to Arnold Bax's dramatic depiction of the Cornish coast, via Anglican hymns, Pink Floyd and Flanders and Swan's comic and moving rendition of The Slow Train. There are musical settings of Betjeman's poetry from Madeleine Dring and Jim Parker, the latter taken from Banana Blush, a niche recording made in the 1970s and featuring Betjeman himself reciting his poetry. And there are bells - lots of bells.
Producer: David Fay, in collaboration with BBC Archives.
THU 18:15 BBC Proms (m002p0sq)
Proms at Christmas 2025
The Vienna Philharmonic plays Tchaikovsky
Another chance to hear the Vienna Philharmonic perform Tchaikovsky's ‘Pathétique’ Symphony and Mozart's 'Prague' Symphony with conductor Franz Welser-Möst.
Recorded at the Royal Albert Hall on 9th September, 2025.
Presented by Martin Handley
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Symphony No. 38 in D major, ‘Prague’
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 in B minor, ‘Pathétique’
Vienna Philharmonic
Franz Welser-Möst, conductor
Franz Welser-Möst and the Vienna Philharmonic round off their Proms visits with two late, great symphonies, each breaking the musical mould. Hot on the heels of The Marriage of Figaro, Mozart’s ‘Prague’ Symphony is animated by the same iconoclastic brilliance, bewitching audiences with a work whose thematic richness, breadth and ambition outpaced any previous symphony. A century later it was Tchaikovsky’s turn to defy convention with his final, ‘Pathétique’ Symphony – whose confessional intensity and turbulent passions conceal a secret narrative known only to the composer. Huge melodies soar and surge, but there’s no happy ending; the symphony closes not with a shout of triumph but a heart-breaking lament.
THU 20:05 Radio 3 in Concert (m002nl9x)
MacMillan's Christmas Oratorio
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Sir James MacMillan in his majestic, radiant Christmas Oratorio, with soloists soprano Rhian Lois and baritone Roderick Williams.
Recorded at the Barbican on Friday 19th December. Presented by Martin Handley.
Sir James MacMillan: Christmas Oratorio
Rhian Lois (soprano)
Roderick Williams (baritone)
BBC Symphony Orchestra
BBC Symphony Chorus
Sir James MacMillan (conductor)
When Sir James MacMillan completes a new choral work the world takes notice, because few living composers write with more conviction or imaginative fire. 'We need this music right now' wrote The Spectator after the world premiere of his Christmas Oratorio in 2021, and this epic work finds both strangeness and splendour in the most familiar of sacred stories.
'Beauty is at the heart of our Christian faith', says MacMillan, and the Christmas Oratorio is more than just a choral celebration of the Festive Season. It’s a feast for mind and spirit; a sonic banquet of mystery, joy and white-hot inspiration. The composer himself conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, with two superb soloists – Rhian Lois and Roderick Williams.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert'.
THU 22:00 Night Tracks (m002nl9z)
Dissolve into a nocturnal soundworld
Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an adventurous, immersive soundtrack for late-night listening, from classical to contemporary and everything in between.
THU 23:30 'Round Midnight (m002nlb1)
Christmas Crackers
‘Round Midnight is presented by award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch. This weekday late-night show celebrates the thriving UK jazz scene and spotlights the best new music alongside incredible acts from past decades.
This week Soweto shares more of the best in jazz and festive favourites.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Round Midnight'.
FRIDAY 26 DECEMBER 2025
FRI 00:30 Through the Night (m002nlb3)
Gershwin's Piano Concerto and Dvořák's 'New World' Symphony
Pietari Inkinen conducts the German Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, Saarbrücken Kaiserslautern in Dvořák's Ninth Symphony 'From the New World' and Rudolf Buchbinder is the soloist in Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F. Jonathan Swain presents.
12:31 AM
George Gershwin (1898-1937)
Piano Concerto in F
Rudolf Buchbinder (piano), German Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, Saarbrücken Kaiserslautern, Pietari Inkinen (conductor)
01:01 AM
Alfred Grünfeld (1852-1924)
Soirée de Vienne, Op 56
Rudolf Buchbinder (piano)
01:06 AM
Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904)
Symphony no 9 in E minor, Op 95 'From the New World'
German Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, Saarbrücken Kaiserslautern, Pietari Inkinen (conductor)
01:47 AM
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Piano Sonata no 21 in B flat major, D.960
Rudolf Buchbinder (piano)
02:27 AM
Lucas Ruiz de Ribayaz (1626-c1677)
Xaracas
Accentus Austria, Thomas Wimmer (director)
02:31 AM
Gabriel Fauré (1845 - 1924)
Violin Sonata no 1 in A major, Op 13
Elena Urioste (violin), Michael Brown (piano)
02:54 AM
Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921)
Symphony no 3 in C minor, Op 78 "Organ Symphony"
Kaare Nordstoga (organ), Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, Michel Plasson (conductor)
03:30 AM
Nicolas Gombert (c.1495-c.1560)
Musae Jovis a 6
BBC Singers, Bo Holten (conductor)
03:37 AM
Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767)
Trio no 5 from Essercizii Musici, for recorder, violin and continuo
Camerata Köln
03:48 AM
Alice Mary Smith (1839-1884)
The Masque of Pandora (Overture)
BBC Concert Orchestra, Bramwell Tovey (conductor)
03:59 AM
Carl Maria von Weber (1786-1826)
Aufforderung zum Tanz
Niklas Sivelöv (piano)
04:08 AM
Traditional, arr. Steven Wingfield
3 Bulgarian Dances arr. Wingfield for violin and guitar
Moshe Hammer (violin), William Beauvais (guitar)
04:15 AM
Tumasch Dolf (1889-1963)
La Patria (The Homeland)
Savognin Men's Chorus, Ruedi Netzer (director)
04:19 AM
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)
5 movements from "Les petits riens" ballet music, K.299b
Danish Radio Sinfonietta, Ádám Fischer (conductor)
04:31 AM
Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179)
Instrumental piece
Sequentia, Ensemble for Medieval Music
04:36 AM
Nino Janjgava (b.1964)
Alleluias 1, 5 & 11
Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier (conductor)
04:41 AM
John Tavener (1944-2013)
The Lamb
Ars Nova Copenhagen, Paul Hillier (conductor)
04:45 AM
Nicola Matteis (c. 1650-after 1713)
Passagio rotto - Fantasia for violin
Anaïs Chen (violin)
04:50 AM
Tauno Pylkkanen (1918-1980)
Suite for oboe and strings, Op 32
Aale Lindgren (oboe), Finnish Radio Orchestra, Petri Sakari (conductor)
04:58 AM
Sergey Prokofiev (1891-1953)
Cinderella Fantasy Suite
Aglika Genova (piano), Liuben Dimitrov (piano)
05:11 AM
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Trumpet Concerto in E flat major, H.7e.1
Geoffrey Payne (trumpet), Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Michael Halász (conductor)
05:27 AM
Hugo Alfvén (1872-1960)
En bat med blommor (A boat with flowers), Op 44
Peter Mattei (baritone), Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Manfred Honeck (conductor)
05:37 AM
Einojuhani Rautavaara (1928-2016)
Cantus Arcticus, Concerto for Birds and Orchestra, Op 61
Argovia Philharmonic, Rune Bergmann (conductor)
05:55 AM
Jean Sibelius (1865-1957)
6 Impromptus, Op 5
Juhani Lagerspetz (piano)
06:12 AM
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Suite for cello solo no 1 in G major, BWV.1007, arranged for viola
Maxim Rysanov (viola)
FRI 06:30 Breakfast (m002nlqh)
Birdsong and Bach to banish those morning blues
Tom McKinney presents Radio 3’s Breakfast show live from Salford. With birdsong, Bach Before 7 and the best in classical music. You can contact the show by emailing 3breakfast@bbc.co.uk
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play 3 Breakfast’
FRI 09:30 Essential Classics (m002nlqk)
The best classical morning music
Ian Skelly plays the best classical music for your morning, with discoveries and surprises rubbing shoulders with familiar favourites. Including the Playlister challenge: our regular listener-created sequence inspired by a different piece of music each day. Plus a new classical release in focus for Album of the Week.
1000 Playlister starter: listen and send us your ideas for the next step in today's musical journey. Text 83111 or email essentialclassics@bbc.co.uk.
1030 Album of the Week: an exciting new classical release in focus throughout the week.
1115 Playlister reveal: an uninterrupted sequence of music suggested by you in response to today's starter piece.
1200 Feast of a Piece: indulge your ears with an orchestral masterpiece.
To listen on most smart speakers say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Essential Classics”
FRI 13:00 Classical Live (m002nlqm)
The Berlin Philharmonic play John Williams
Linton Stephens introduces specially recorded music for your Boxing Day afternoon including film music from John Williams performed by the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, a little symphony from Erich von Korngold, and Rory Kinnear narrating Peter and the Wolf with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
Including:
John Williams
Sound the Bells
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
Sergei Prokofiev
Peter and the Wolf
Rory Kinnear (narrator)
BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
Christian Reif (conductor)
John Williams
'Raiders March' (Raiders of the Lost Ark)
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
John Williams
'The Flight to Neverland' (Hook)
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Horn Quintet in Eb, K. 407
Kaleidoscope Chamber Collective
John Williams
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Symphonic Suite
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
Johann Sebastian Bach (arr. Andrew Davis)
Toccata and Fugue in D minor
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Martyn Brabbins (conductor)
Christopher Tye
Omnes Gentes
BBC Singers
Matthew Martin (conductor)
John Williams
Sayuri's Theme (Memoirs of a Geisha)
Bruno Delepelaire (cello)
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
Erich von Korngold
Sinfonietta in B major, Op. 5
Royal Danish Orchestra
Marie Jacquot (conductor)
John Williams
'March of the Resistance' (Star Wars: The Force Awakens)
'Luke and Leia' (Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi)
Main Title (Star Wars)
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Stéphane Denève, (conductor)
To listen to this programme (using most smart speakers) just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Live'.
FRI 16:00 Composer of the Week (m002nlqp)
A Georgian Christmas
Servants and Soldiers
Donald Macleod visits the home of Jane Austen with historian, Amanda Vickery, to discover some of the seasonal customs and Christmas music of late-Georgian Britain.
Today, Donald and Amanda venture into the kitchen to explore what we know about Christmas celebrations among the lower classes during Jane Austen’s era. They also examine the impact of local militia, stationed over winter at country towns across Georgian Britain. We also see the beginnings of a festive theatrical tradition that remains a Christmas favourite today.
Trad: The First Nowell
Margaret Phillips, organ
The Sixteen, directed by Harry Christophers,
Anon: Remember The Poor
Caroline Ritson, singer
Mark Emerson, violin
Dave Townsend, concertina
John Hill: The people that walked in darkness
Philippa Hyde, soprano
Clare Tomlin, soprano
Timothy Kenworthy-Brown, alto
Jannie Cassidy, alto
Patrick McCarthy, tenor
Julian Perkins, bass
Psalmody
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
Richard Charke: Harlequin Restor'd, Medley Overture
The Parley of Instruments, conducted by Peter Holman
John Frederick Lampe: The Dragon of Wantley, Overture
Brook Street Band, conducted by John Andrews
Handel: Messiah (extracts from Part 3)
Susan Hamilton, soprano
Matthew Brook, bass
Dunedin Consort, conducted by John Butt
Produced by Chris Taylor for BBC Audio Wales and West
FRI 17:00 In Tune (m002nlqr)
In Tune's Highlights of the Year (Part 1)
Join Petroc Trelawny as he charts the best live performances and interviews from In Tune across 2025.
FRI 19:00 Classical Mixtape (m002nlqt)
An uplifting classical mix
Take time out with a 30-minute soundscape of classical music. To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Classical Mixtape'.
FRI 19:30 Drama on 3 (m00262bj)
Gershwin & Miss Swift
The extraordinary true story of composer Kay Swift, the first woman to score a hit Broadway musical, and her ten-year love affair with George Gershwin.
When Kay meets George, sparks fly. But Kay is happily married with children, and George is only truly faithful to his creative talent. A psychoanalyst adds fuel to the fire. Kay chooses to forge her own future – in love and music – risking everything along the way.
Written by Andrew McCaldon and recorded live in front of an audience at the Alexandra Palace Theatre, London with Swift and Gershwin’s music performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra with singer Lucy-Anne Daniels and pianist Ben Dawson. The conductor is Keith Lockhart.
Kay Swift ….. Lydia Leonard
George Gershwin ….. Jamie Parker
Jimmy Warburg ….. Jacob Fortune-Lloyd
Gregory Zilboorg ….. Joseph May
Ellen Swift ….. Tara Ward
Directed by Tracey Neale
Producers - Tracey Neale and Neil Varley
With special thanks to Katharine Weber, Aaron Gandy, and the Kay Swift Trust.
Lydia Leonard is a Tony-nominated actress whose recent credits include A Very Royal Scandal with Ruth Wilson and Michael Sheen, We Are Lady Parts for Channel 4, Funny Woman with Gemma Arterton, and the BBC’s The Mirror and the Light with Damian Lewis and Mark Rylance. Lydia is also known for playing the lead in Amazon’s Ten Percent, as well as opposite Suranne Jones in Series 2 of the HBO/BBC drama Gentleman Jack.
Jamie Parker is best known for his role as Harry Potter in the original cast for the West End play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, for which he received an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Play and a WhatsOnStage Award for Best Actor in a Play. For his performance in Rodgers & Hart & Hammerstein for BBC Radio 3, he was shortlisted for a BBC Audio Award for Best Actor. He has made numerous other appearances in BBC audio dramas.
Jacob Fortune-Lloyd is One of Screen International’s Stars of Tomorrow, and can be seen in the lead role of Brian Epstein in biopic Midas Man. He played the role of D.L Townes in The Queen’s Gambit, and Detective Whiteman in Bodies, both hit limited series on Netflix. On stage, Jacob has played leading roles at the RSC, in London’s West End, the Globe and most recently at the Hampstead Theatre.
Joseph May played Andy Button across 5 seasons of Episodes for Hatrick. He played Justin Trudeau in The Windsors and appears as regular Francois in the reboot of All Creatures Great and Small for Channel 5. Other TV appearances include Toast of Tinseltown, Dark Money, and the recurring role of Malone in Miss Scarlett and the Duke.
Tara Ward returns to Alexandra Palace with Gershwin & Miss Swift following her appearance as Lucy Anderson in the acclaimed Drama and BBC Concert Orchestra collaboration Benny & Hitch for BBC Radio 3. She can be seen as the troubled Diana in Sky TV’s Riviera and the Janitor’s Wife in Warner Bro’s Justice League. She played Mrs Marsh in BBC Radio 4’s Little Women and has recorded more than 100 audiobooks.
Lucy-Anne Daniels is establishing herself as a standout voice on the UK jazz scene and beyond. Her impressive performance credits include appearances at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall during the BBC Proms, Duc de Lombards in Paris, and Dizzy's in New York. Growing up immersed in the vibrant worlds of gospel and jazz, Lucy-Anne is a natural storyteller and creative improviser.
Ben Dawson has earned an international reputation as a pianist and trusted recording and broadcast musician, known for his fluency and flexibility in the most diverse range of musical styles and settings. He has appeared as a soloist with major orchestras in the UK & overseas; featured on numerous film, television & advert soundtracks; written music for film; appeared on-screen in several tv series, and partnered many renowned artists across numerous genres.
Keith Lockhart is well-known to BBC audiences as the Principal Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra from 2010-2018, and its Chief Guest Conductor for the following two years. He has been the Conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra for nearly 30 years, and the Artistic Director of the Brevard Music Center for 17 years, and has conducted many of the world's great orchestras. Gershwin is one of his greatest passions, and this project was very close to his heart.
Andrew McCaldon won the Richard Imison Award for Benny & Hitch. His work includes the BAFTA-winning Ten Pieces films, shows for the BBC Singers and BBC orchestras, and a series of acclaimed Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, all combining music and drama. His other work includes: Abracadopera! (English National Opera / Sky Arts), I Am Trumpet (Southbank Centre) and Another Star to Steer By (Brighton Festival).
Director, Tracey Neale
Producers, Neil Varley & Tracey Neale
Foley Artist, Alison Craig
Sound Design, Chris Rouse & Peter Ringrose
Production Co-Ordinators, Ben Hollands, Ruth Potter and Luke MacGregor
FRI 22:00 Late Junction (m002nlqw)
Sounds of 2025
It’s that time of year again, and to round out the Late Junction calendar for 2025 Verity Sharp digs back through some of our sonic highlights from the past 12 months of adventurous listening, with a little help along the way from Late Junction family and friends. En route we encounter surreal vocal improvisations and dizzying basslines courtesy of Rian Treanor & Cara Tolmie, an intimate performance from the “golden voice of Africa” aka Mali’s Salif Keita, and future ancestral rhythms from sibling duo Los Thuthanaka.
Produced by Gabriel Francis
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 3
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'ask BBC Sounds to play Late Junction'.
FRI 23:30 'Round Midnight (m002nlqy)
Boxing Day Big Band Bonanza
‘Round Midnight is presented by award-winning saxophonist Soweto Kinch. This weekday late-night show celebrates the thriving UK jazz scene and spotlights the best new music alongside incredible acts from past decades.
This Boxing Day edition of 'Round Midnight, Soweto has more jazz Christmas tracks to share, including music perfect for the yuletide season from some of the best jazz big bands.
To listen on most smart speakers just say 'Ask BBC Sounds to play Round Midnight'.
LIST OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAMMES
(Note: the times link back to the details; the pids link to the BBC page, including iPlayer)
'Round Midnight
23:30 MON (m002ngf9)
'Round Midnight
23:30 TUE (m002nggv)
'Round Midnight
23:30 WED (m002ngcw)
'Round Midnight
23:30 THU (m002nlb1)
'Round Midnight
23:30 FRI (m002nlqy)
20th Century Radicals
21:00 SUN (m002ngbd)
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
13:00 THU (m002nl9n)
BBC Proms
14:40 THU (m002nl9q)
BBC Proms
18:15 THU (m002p0sq)
Breakfast
06:30 SAT (m002ng4l)
Breakfast
06:30 SUN (m002ng9l)
Breakfast
06:30 MON (m002ngdq)
Breakfast
06:30 TUE (m002ngg8)
Breakfast
06:30 WED (m002ngc5)
Breakfast
06:30 THU (m002nl9j)
Breakfast
06:30 FRI (m002nlqh)
Choral Evensong
15:00 SUN (m002n9sm)
Choral Evensong
15:00 WED (m002ngcc)
Christmas Morning Live
09:30 THU (m002nl9l)
Classical Live
13:00 MON (m002ngdv)
Classical Live
13:00 TUE (m002nggd)
Classical Live
13:00 WED (m002ngc9)
Classical Live
13:00 FRI (m002nlqm)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 MON (m002ngf1)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 TUE (m002nggl)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 WED (m002ngcl)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 FRI (m002nlqt)
Compline
22:00 SUN (m002ngbh)
Composer of the Week
16:00 MON (m002ngdx)
Composer of the Week
16:00 TUE (m002nggg)
Composer of the Week
16:00 WED (m002ngcf)
Composer of the Week
16:00 THU (m002nl9s)
Composer of the Week
16:00 FRI (m002nlqp)
Drama on 3
19:30 FRI (m00262bj)
Earlier... with Jools Holland
12:00 SAT (m002ng4q)
Essential Classics
09:30 MON (m002ngds)
Essential Classics
09:30 TUE (m002nggb)
Essential Classics
09:30 WED (m002ngc7)
Essential Classics
09:30 FRI (m002nlqk)
In Tune
17:00 MON (m002ngdz)
In Tune
17:00 TUE (m002nggj)
In Tune
17:00 WED (m002ngcj)
In Tune
17:00 FRI (m002nlqr)
Jazz Record Requests
16:00 SUN (m002ng9v)
Late Junction
22:00 FRI (m002nlqw)
Music Map
13:30 SUN (m002ng9s)
Music Matters
13:00 SAT (m002ng4s)
Music Planet
21:30 SAT (m002ng53)
New Music Show
22:30 SAT (m002ng55)
Night Tracks
22:30 SUN (m002ngbk)
Night Tracks
22:07 MON (m002ngf7)
Night Tracks
22:00 TUE (m002nggs)
Night Tracks
22:00 WED (m002ngct)
Night Tracks
22:00 THU (m002nl9z)
Opera on 3
18:00 SAT (m002ng51)
Private Passions
12:00 SUN (m002ng9q)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 MON (m002ngf3)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 TUE (m002nggn)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 WED (m002ngcn)
Radio 3 in Concert
20:05 THU (m002nl9x)
Record Review
14:00 SAT (m002ng4v)
Record Review
20:00 SUN (m002ngb8)
Saturday Morning
09:00 SAT (m002ng4n)
Sound of Cinema
16:00 SAT (m002ng4x)
Sunday Feature
19:15 SUN (m002ngb4)
Sunday Morning
09:00 SUN (m002ng9n)
The Early Music Show
17:00 SUN (m002ng9x)
The Essay
21:52 MON (m002ngf5)
The Essay
21:45 TUE (m002nggq)
The Essay
21:45 WED (m002ngcq)
This Classical Life
17:00 SAT (m002ng4z)
Through the Night
00:30 SAT (m002nbfr)
Through the Night
00:30 SUN (m002ng57)
Through the Night
00:30 MON (m002nl17)
Through the Night
00:30 TUE (m002nkxt)
Through the Night
00:30 WED (m002nl6z)
Through the Night
00:30 THU (m002nl75)
Through the Night
00:30 FRI (m002nlb3)
Unclassified
23:30 SUN (m002ngbm)
Words and Music
18:00 SUN (m002ngb0)
Words and Music
17:00 THU (m001yyzj)
LIST OF THIS WEEK'S PROGRAMMES ORDERED BY GENRE
(Note: the times link back to the details; the pids link to the BBC page, including iPlayer)
Drama
Drama on 3
19:30 FRI (m00262bj)
Words and Music
18:00 SUN (m002ngb0)
Words and Music
17:00 THU (m001yyzj)
Factual
Sunday Feature
19:15 SUN (m002ngb4)
Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media
Music Matters
13:00 SAT (m002ng4s)
The Essay
21:52 MON (m002ngf5)
The Essay
21:45 TUE (m002nggq)
The Essay
21:45 WED (m002ngcq)
Music
Late Junction
22:00 FRI (m002nlqw)
Music: Classical
20th Century Radicals
21:00 SUN (m002ngbd)
Breakfast
06:30 SAT (m002ng4l)
Breakfast
06:30 SUN (m002ng9l)
Breakfast
06:30 MON (m002ngdq)
Breakfast
06:30 TUE (m002ngg8)
Breakfast
06:30 WED (m002ngc5)
Breakfast
06:30 THU (m002nl9j)
Breakfast
06:30 FRI (m002nlqh)
Christmas Morning Live
09:30 THU (m002nl9l)
Classical Live
13:00 MON (m002ngdv)
Classical Live
13:00 TUE (m002nggd)
Classical Live
13:00 WED (m002ngc9)
Classical Live
13:00 FRI (m002nlqm)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 MON (m002ngf1)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 TUE (m002nggl)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 WED (m002ngcl)
Classical Mixtape
19:00 FRI (m002nlqt)
Composer of the Week
16:00 MON (m002ngdx)
Composer of the Week
16:00 TUE (m002nggg)
Composer of the Week
16:00 WED (m002ngcf)
Composer of the Week
16:00 THU (m002nl9s)
Composer of the Week
16:00 FRI (m002nlqp)
Earlier... with Jools Holland
12:00 SAT (m002ng4q)
Essential Classics
09:30 MON (m002ngds)
Essential Classics
09:30 TUE (m002nggb)
Essential Classics
09:30 WED (m002ngc7)
Essential Classics
09:30 FRI (m002nlqk)
In Tune
17:00 MON (m002ngdz)
In Tune
17:00 TUE (m002nggj)
In Tune
17:00 WED (m002ngcj)
In Tune
17:00 FRI (m002nlqr)
Music Map
13:30 SUN (m002ng9s)
Night Tracks
22:30 SUN (m002ngbk)
Night Tracks
22:07 MON (m002ngf7)
Night Tracks
22:00 TUE (m002nggs)
Night Tracks
22:00 WED (m002ngct)
Night Tracks
22:00 THU (m002nl9z)
Private Passions
12:00 SUN (m002ng9q)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 MON (m002ngf3)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 TUE (m002nggn)
Radio 3 in Concert
19:30 WED (m002ngcn)
Radio 3 in Concert
20:05 THU (m002nl9x)
Record Review
14:00 SAT (m002ng4v)
Record Review
20:00 SUN (m002ngb8)
Saturday Morning
09:00 SAT (m002ng4n)
Sunday Morning
09:00 SUN (m002ng9n)
This Classical Life
17:00 SAT (m002ng4z)
Through the Night
00:30 SAT (m002nbfr)
Through the Night
00:30 SUN (m002ng57)
Through the Night
00:30 MON (m002nl17)
Through the Night
00:30 TUE (m002nkxt)
Through the Night
00:30 WED (m002nl6z)
Through the Night
00:30 THU (m002nl75)
Through the Night
00:30 FRI (m002nlb3)
Words and Music
18:00 SUN (m002ngb0)
Words and Music
17:00 THU (m001yyzj)
Music: Classical: Choral
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
13:00 THU (m002nl9n)
Choral Evensong
15:00 SUN (m002n9sm)
Choral Evensong
15:00 WED (m002ngcc)
Compline
22:00 SUN (m002ngbh)
Music: Classical: Early Music
The Early Music Show
17:00 SUN (m002ng9x)
Music: Classical: Experimental & New
New Music Show
22:30 SAT (m002ng55)
Unclassified
23:30 SUN (m002ngbm)
Music: Classical: Opera
Opera on 3
18:00 SAT (m002ng51)
Music: Classical: Orchestral
BBC Proms
14:40 THU (m002nl9q)
BBC Proms
18:15 THU (m002p0sq)
Music: Easy Listening, Soundtracks & Musicals
Sound of Cinema
16:00 SAT (m002ng4x)
Music: Jazz & Blues
Jazz Record Requests
16:00 SUN (m002ng9v)
Music: Jazz & Blues: Jazz
'Round Midnight
23:30 MON (m002ngf9)
'Round Midnight
23:30 TUE (m002nggv)
'Round Midnight
23:30 WED (m002ngcw)
'Round Midnight
23:30 THU (m002nlb1)
'Round Midnight
23:30 FRI (m002nlqy)
Jazz Record Requests
16:00 SUN (m002ng9v)
Music: World
Late Junction
22:00 FRI (m002nlqw)
Music Planet
21:30 SAT (m002ng53)
Night Tracks
22:30 SUN (m002ngbk)
Night Tracks
22:07 MON (m002ngf7)
Night Tracks
22:00 TUE (m002nggs)
Night Tracks
22:00 WED (m002ngct)
Night Tracks
22:00 THU (m002nl9z)
Religion & Ethics
Choral Evensong
15:00 SUN (m002n9sm)
Choral Evensong
15:00 WED (m002ngcc)
Compline
22:00 SUN (m002ngbh)