BBC announces new classical programming

The BBC has today announced a boost to its classical programming. BBC Radio 3 has revealed a new schedule with new presenters including Soweto Kinch, Nicola Benedetti, Jools Holland and Clive Myrie while the broadcaster’s television arm is set to welcome new programmes and films focusing on classical music.

BBC Radio 3’s new schedule, announced today, will see regular shows including Breakfast, Essential Classics and Private Passions extended, and broadcasters Tom Service and Sara Mohr-Pietsch host new programmes. The station also welcomes new presenters including Soweto Kinch, Nicola Benedetti, Jools Holland and Clive Myrie as well as returning host Clemency Burton-Hill.

BBC Radio 3 and Proms controller Sam Jackson said: ‘Distinctiveness and ambition are at the heart of the new Radio 3 schedule, as we look to delight our existing audience whilst also offering a raft of programmes that give new listeners a reason to join us. Today, we cement our commitment to live music, and take the opportunity to tell powerful stories through the magical medium of radio. From Clemency Burton-Hill’s major series on the West Eastern Divan Orchestra, to Soweto Kinch’s nightly jazz programme, Radio 3 is offering a diverse range of programmes unlike anything available elsewhere. This new schedule, coupled with our forthcoming BBC Proms season which is shaping up to be one of our most ambitious yet, makes this an exciting time for music at the BBC.’

Violinist Nicola Benedetti will make her Radio 3 presenting debut with a series focusing on the history and impact of the Edinburgh International Festival (of which she is now director) while classical music journalist Richard Morrison explores the state of the UK’s classical music sector and music education in his new show.

Newcomer Clive Myrie will host Music on the Frontline, learning how classical music has supported fellow journalists while they report on often challenging stories. Jools Holland also presents a new Saturday lunchtime programme, Earlier…with Jools Holland. Radio 3 is also set to relaunch its Friday Night is Music Night show with the BBC Concert Orchestra alongside a new three-hour weekday afternoon programme from Salford, Classical Live.

As well as continuing its partnerships with the Edinburgh International Festival, the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival and the Aldeburgh Festival, BBC Radio 3 will mark the 100^th birthday of British conductor Sir Neville Marriner, and the 100^th anniversary of the May 1924 broadcast during which Beatrice Harrison played live alongside a nightingale.

Other changes include an extended version of Jess Gillam’s This Classical Life on Saturday evenings, while Hannah French becomes the sole presenter of The Early Music Show, Record Review moves to Saturday afternoon, Night Tracks increases to five episodes a week with an earlier start, Unclassified moves to Sunday night and Music Planet moves to Saturday night.

The BBC’s television offering will include new series Mozart: Rise of a Genius charting the life and work of the composer on the fortieth anniversary of the release of the film Amadeus using Mozart’s own music as a soundtrack. Maria Callas will be the focus of a new Arena film, while a new film of Britten’s Curlew River, created in partnership with the 75^th Aldeburgh Festival, will celebrate the 60^th anniversary of its first performance.