Composer of the Week

Donald Macleod talks to British composer, pianist and conductor Thomas Adès.Music featured: Hotel Suite from Powder Her Face Gefriolsae Me, Op 3B Arcadiana Chamber Symphony …but all shall be well Powder Her Face Still Sorrowing Asyla Concerto Conciso The Tempest Lieux retrouvés (Les champs) Violin Concerto Concert Paraphrase on Powder Her Face In Seven Days The Four Quarters Totentanz Coffee-Spoon Cavatina Alchymia Blanca Variations Növények Concerto for piano and orchestra AquiferProduced by Luke Whitlock.For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Thomas Adès: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002sq64And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Gaetano Donizetti was one of Italy’s most prolific tunesmiths, with almost 70 operas to his name – about as many as Rossini, Bellini and Verdi all combined - whose arias still cut straight to the heart today. Donald Macleod follows his irresistible rise: from a child brought up in a dark, cramped cellar to become a pioneering master of the style known as bel canto. And like any opera plot, there’s triumph and tragedy, headaches and heartbreak…Music featured: L’Elisir d’amore Gloria (from Messa di Gloria) String Quartet No 5 in E minor Waltz in G major Zoraida Amor marinaro L’Esule di Roma Lucrezia Borgia Lucia di Lammermoor String Quartet No 16 Maria Stuarda Messa di Requiem ll sogno “Nostre misere menti” Il sospiro “Donna felice, stanca d’amore” Poliuto La fille du regiment Les Martyrs La fille du regiment Maria Padilla Trovatella “Sovra il campo della vita” Don Pasquale String Quartet No 18 Dom Sebastien: Seul sur la terre Requiem: Offertorio – Lux AeternaProduced by Amelia Parker for BBC Audio Wales and West.For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002sd9nAnd you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Donald Macleod explores five classical composers from the land of the long white cloud, New Zealand: Douglas Lilburn, Jenny McLeod, Dame Gillian Whitehead, John Psathas, and Gareth Farr.Music featured:Douglas Lilburn: Symphony No 1 Aotearoa Elegy Sings Harry Symphony No 3 Three Inscapes, No 1 17 Pieces for Guitar Symphony No 2Jenny McLeod: Rock Concerto Hear the Great Ocean (from Childhood, No 4) 24 Tone Clock Dolly Bird (Music for Four) Nā Kui ki a Tama: Te Pūroto Kōpua Three celebrationsDame Gillian Whitehead: Hineaukatauri Tōrua Alice Pūhake ki te Rangi Lullaby for Matthew KarohirohiJohn Psathas: RealBadNow – V Craving the World Voices at the End (Mitote) Three Psalms (No 3, Sergei Bk. Ch. 1) Songs for Simon (No 1, His Second Time) Helix (No 3, Tarantismo) The All-Seeing Sky Gareth Farr: Pukul The Horizon from Owhiro Bay Tentang Cara Gamelan Waipoua Headrush Te Papa Kembang Suling Nga Tai Hurihuri From the Depths Sound the Great Sea Gongs (The Invocation of the Sea)Presented by Donald Macleod. Produced by Luke Whitlock for BBC Audio Wales & West.For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for New Zealand Composers: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002s3nmAnd you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Kate Molleson traces the development of Jean Sibelius’s symphonies. Set against Finland’s changing political climate and Sibelius’s own, turbulent personal circumstances, the podcast explores what shaped each symphony’s character – from the nationalism surrounding Nos. 1 and 2, to the renewed sense of form in the Third, the more inward Fourth, and the reworked Fifth. The week concludes with the distinctive Sixth and the single‑movement Seventh, composed during a period of uncertainty both for Finland and Sibelius himself.Music featured includes: Symphony No 2 in D, Op 43 Song of my Heart, Op 18 No 6 Symphony No 1 in E minor, Op 39 The Diamond on the March Snow, Op 36 No 6 Sunrise, Op 37 No 1 Kyllikki, Op 41 No 3 Symphony No 3 in C, Op 52 The Captive Queen, Op 48 Erloschen String Quartet in D minor, Op 56 ‘Voces Intimae’ Des Abends, Op 58 No 5 Symphony No 4 in A minor, Op 63 Spring’s Spell, Op 61 No 8 Romance, Op 78 No 2 The Oceanides, Op 73 The Echo Nymph, Op 72 No 4 Symphony No 5 in E flat, Op 82 Jokamies, Op 83 Autrefois, Op 96b Symphony No 6 in D minor, Op 104 Danses Champêtres, Op 106 No 1 Symphony No 7 in C, Op 105Presented by Kate Molleson Produced by Luke Whitlock for BBC Audio Wales and WestFor full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002rr2jAnd you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Donald Macleod explores how Amy Beach railed against the sexism of her time to journey from a child piano prodigy to a respected composer.Young Birches Valse – Caprice, op.4 3 Songs, Op 2 no 3 - Empress of Night Eilende Wolken, segler der Lufte, Op. 18 Violin Sonata, Op.34 - I. Allegro Moderato Quartet for Strings in One Movement The Lark Quartet Romance for violin and piano, op.23 Ecstasy, Op.19 no 2 Symphony in E Flat, Op.32 'Gaelic' Peace I leave with you Dreaming (4 Sketches, Op.15) Piano Quintet in F sharp minor, Op.67 Deus Misereatur, Op.78 no 2 Jephthah’s Daughter, Op.53 A Hermit Thrush At Morn, Op.92, no.2 Piano Concerto, Op. 45 From Grandmother’s Garden - V. Honeysuckle By the still waters, Op.114 (arr. Lewin for 2 guitars) Hermit Thrush At Eve, Op.92, no.1 (1922) 3 Piano pieces, Op. 128 (I. Scherzino) Ses Yeux, Op. 66 Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 150 Cabildo, Op. 149 “Ah, love is a jasmine vine” Canticle of the Sun Scottish Legend, Op. 54, No 1For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Amy Beach (1867-1944): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002rf45And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-zProducer: Steven Rajam / Sam Phillips

Donald Macleod delves into the life of the great German composer Heinrich Schütz.Music featured: Wohl denen, die ohne Wandel leben, SWV 482 Tugend ist der beste Freund, SWV 442 O primavera, SWV 1 Wohl dem der ein tugendsam Weib hat, SWV 20 Zion spricht, der Herr hat mich verlassen, SWV 46 En novus Elysiis, SWV 49 (Syncharma Musicum) Ich heb mein Augen sehnlich auf, SWV 226 (Becker Psalter) Mit dem Amphion zwar mein Orgel und mein Harfe, SWV 501 Auferstehungshistorie, SWV 50 Fili mi, Absalon, SWV 269 Ich hab mein Sach Gott heimgestellt, SWV 305 Erhöre mich, wenn dich ich rufe, SWV 289 O der grossen Wundertaten, SWV 278 Musikalische Exequien, SWV 279 Ich werde nicht sterben, SWV 346 (Symphoniarum sacrarum II) Die mit Tränen säen, SWV 378 (Geistliche Chormusik) Haus und Güter erbet man von Eltern, SWV 21 Teutoniam dudum belli, SWV 338 Was betrübst du dich, SWV 353 (Symphoniarum sacrarum II) Die Himmel erzählen die Ehre Gottes, SWV 386 Seid barmherzig, SWV 409 (Symphoniarum sacrarum III) Herr, nun lässest du deinen Diener, SWV 432 Schütz: Die Erde trinkt für sich, SWV 438 Saul, Saul, was verfolgst du mich, SWV 415 (Symphoniarum sacrarum III) St Matthew Passion, SWV 479 Vater Abraham, erbarme dich mein, SWV477 Ich rufe von ganzem Herzen, SWV 491For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Heinrich Schutz (1585-1672): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002qqryAnd you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Kate Molleson, joined by Dr John Purser, explores the life and music of Erik Chisholm – one of Scotland’s most original and adventurous composers. From his early fascination with folk melody and the piano in Glasgow, through his championing of new music and his wide‑ranging artistic friendships, to his bold ventures in opera, ballet and international musical life, Chisholm’s story is one of restless curiosity and invention. We follow his journey from Scotland to India, Singapore and South Africa, tracing the ideas, collaborations and passions that shaped his distinctive voice.Music featured includes: Airs from the Patrick MacDonald Collection: Nos. 18, 23–26 Piano Sonatina No. 1 Straloch Suite: Nos. 1–2 Piano Concerto No. 1 “Piobaireachd”: I & IV Violin Concerto: II. Allegro scherzando The Three Worthies; Dirge for Summer; Snail, Snail, Shoot Out Your Horn Dance Suite for Orchestra: III. March; IV. Reel Piobaireachd: Nos. 1–4 Piano Concerto No. 2 “Hindustani”: III. Rondo burlesca Pictures from Dante (After Doré): I. Inferno; II. Paradisio Poems of Love Symphony No. 2 “Ossian”: Prelude; Allegro animado; Epilogue Piano Sonata in A major “a Rhiobain Dearg”: IV. Allegro moderato Tango Scottish Airs for Children: Nos. 6–12 From the True Edge of the Great World: Preludes 1, 8, 9 Ceol Mòr Dances: Nos. 1–2 Night Song of the Bards: Bard 3; Bard 4 Simoon: excerpts Dance Suite for Orchestra and Piano: I. Allegro energico; II. PiobaireachdPresented by Kate Molleson.Produced by Ellie Ajao for BBC Audio Wales and West.For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Erik Chisholm (1904-1965) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002qh44.And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

Donald Macleod takes a tour of the life of Franz Xaver Mozart, son of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with guest Professor Cliff Eisen.Music featured: Piano Concerto No 1 in C, Op 14 (excerpt) Das Finden, Op 27 No 2 (Drei Deutsche Lieder) Variations on a Minuet from W. A. Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Op 2 Piano Quartet in G minor Op 1 Variation 28 for Anton Diabelli’s Waltz Piano Concerto No 1 in C, Op 14 (Allegro maestoso) Rondo in F, Op 4 (excerpt) Nein! (Sechs Lieder, No 3) Violin Sonata in B flat, Op 7 Piano Concerto No 1 in C, Op 14 (Adagio) Polonaise mélancolique No 5 in F minor, Op 17 Piano Concerto No 1 in C, Op 14 (Allegretto) Violin Sonata in F, Op 15 (excerpt) Sinfonia in D Das liebende Mädchen (Sechs Lieder, No 1) An spröde Schönen (Sechs Lieder, No 2) Piano Sonata in G Violin Sonata in F, Op 15 (Polonaise) In der Väter Hallen ruht, Op 12 Piano Concerto No 2 in E flat, Op 25 (excerpt) Variations on a Theme of an Ukrainian Folk Song, Op 18 An Emma, Op 24 Grand Sonata for piano and cello in E, Op 19 Polonaise mélancolique, Op 22 No 1 (Risoluto) Piano Concerto No 2 in E flat, Op 25 (Allegro con brio) Engel Gottes künden Rondo in E minor Polonaise mélancolique, Op 22 No 2-4 An den Abendstern, Op 27 No 1 Piano Concerto No 2 in E flat, Op 25 (excerpt)Presented by Donald Macleod Produced by Luke Whitlock for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Franz Xaver Wolfgang Mozart (1791-1844): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002q4m1And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Donald Macleod explores the life and music of Aaron Copland, one of the most distinctive voices in 20th-century American music. From his Brooklyn childhood and formative studies in Paris to his return home with bold new ideas, Copland’s career charts a path through modernism, jazz, and the search for an unmistakably American sound. We hear music that captures the spirit of a nation – from Billy the Kid and Lincoln Portrait to his Fanfare for the Common Man, before he made the move from composer to conductor. Music featured includes: 4 Dance Episodes from Rodeo: iv. Hoe Down Two Preludes for violin and piano Four Early Songs: i. Night; ii. A Summer Vacation; iii. My Heart is in the East; iv. Alone Four Motets: iii. Have Mercy on Us, O My Lord Three Moods: i. Embittered; ii. Wistful; iii. Jazzy Symphony for Organ and Orchestra: ii. Scherzo; iii. Finale: Lento The Cat and the Mouse Old Poem; Pastorale Music for the Theater: i. Prologue; ii. Dance Piano Concerto Vitebsk (trio for violin, cello and piano) Hear Ye! Hear Ye! – ballet in one act: Scene i (Prelude) Piano Variations Short Symphony (Symphony No. 2): i. Incisivo; ii. Espressivo; iii. Presto e ritmico El Salón México Billy the Kid Suite: i. Introduction: The Open Prairie; ii. Street in a Frontier Town; iii. Mexican Dance and Finale Letter from Home Appalachian Spring Suite: v. Solo Dance; vi. Meno mosso; vii. Variation on a Shaker Hymn Clarinet Concerto Lincoln Portrait Fanfare for the Common Man Two Pieces for String Quartet: No. 2. Allegro Moderato Piano Quartet: iii. Non troppo lento Music for a Great City: i. SkylinePresented by Donald Macleod Produced by Elizabeth Ajao for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Aaron Copland (1900-1990): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002p75g And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

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.Music featured: Thomas Clark: While Shepherds Watched William Matthews: How beauteous are their feet Anon: The Holly and the Ivy Viotti: Violin Concerto No 13 in A Major Handel: Messiah Cimarosa: L'Olimpiade: Sinfonia Thomas Wilson: Wellington's Triumph Thomas Straight: Trip to Vauxhall, Sailor Laddie Weber (orch Berlioz): Aufforderung zum Tanz Trad (arr. Townsend): Arise and Hail the Joyful Day Trad.: Awake, and join the cheerful choir Attrib. Wade (arr. Vincent Novello): O come, all ye faithful Arr. Thomas Butts: Hark! how all the welkin rings Attwood: O God, Who by the Leading of a Star Mendelssohn: The Evening Bell Jarman: There were shepherds abiding John Wainwright: Christians, awake, salute the happy morn Pleyel: Symphony No.12 in E flat Kalmar Wesley: Rondo on God Rest You Merry Gentlemen Trad: The First Nowell Anon: Remember The Poor John Hill: The people that walked in darkness Richard Charke: Harlequin Restor'd John Frederick Lampe: The Dragon of Wantley, Overture Presented by Donald Macleod Produced by Chris Taylor for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for A Georgian Christmas: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0026800 And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Kate Molleson explores the life and music of Sergey Prokofiev – a composer whose imagination shaped some of the most vivid music of the 20th century. From childhood stories in rural Ukraine to bold experiments at the St Petersburg Conservatory, from revolutionary Russia to the bright lights of New York, and finally to his dramatic homecoming, Prokofiev’s journey is full of ambition, upheaval and colour. We hear music that tells tales – fairytales, fantasies and fragments of real life – revealing a composer who never stopped dreaming.Troika (from Lieutenant Kijé Suite, Op. 60) Cinderella Suite, Op. 87 The Winter Bonfire, Op. 122: IV–VIII Music for Children, Op. 65: Nos. 1–9 Peter and the Wolf, Op. 67 Four Études, Op. 2 Autumnal Sketch Piano Concerto No. 1 in D flat major, Op. 10 The Ugly Duckling, Op. 18 Cinderella Suite No. 1, Op. 107: IV. Fairy Godmother and Winter Fairy Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25 'Classical' Seven, They Are Seven, Op. 30 Scythian Suite, Op. 20: I–II Old Grandmother’s Tales, Op. 31: Nos. 1–4 Overture on Hebrew Themes The Love of Three Oranges: Suite Five Songs Without Words Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 63: II. Andante assai Le Pas d’acier Suite, Op 41a: I, II The Prodigal Son, Op. 46, Scene 1: IV–VIII Romeo and Juliet: Dance of the KnightsPresented by Kate Molleson Produced by Ellie Ajao for BBC Audio Wales & WestFor full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Sergey Prokofiev (1891-1953) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002n9nvAnd you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Donald Macleod visits Sir John Rutter at his Cambridgeshire home to celebrate his 80th birthday and explore the twists and turns of his extraordinary career. One of the most influential choral composers of the 20th and 21st centuries – and for many, the sound of Christmas – Rutter is also an international conductor, arranger, editor and producer, describing himself as a musical “magpie.” Across the week, we hear hallmark carols alongside music shaped by his life’s milestones: from childhood in London and formative years in Cambridge, to his long association with America, his response to personal tragedy, and his latest creative ventures. Music featured: Nativity Carol 4 Orchestral Miniatures: Dance to Your Daddy London Town: A Choral Celebration Shepherd’s Pipe Carol The Lord Bless You and Keep You Visions Cityscapes: Flower of Cities All Banquet Fugue (from The Reluctant Dragon) A Clare Benediction Reflections: Prelude What Sweeter Music Wind in the Willows (Extract – Opening) Somerset Wassail Candlelight Carol I’ll Make Me a World Gloria Cityscapes: Big Apple Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit Lord Make me an Instrument (arr. for orchestra) Requiem: Lux Aeterna Mass of the Children: Sanctus and Benedictus The Gift of Life: The Gift of Each Day There is a flower When Icicles Hang: Good Ale Bird Songs: If I were an Owl Dancing Tree (In My Garden) Celebration Overture All the Stars Looked Down Carol of the Magi Presented by Donald Macleod. Produced by Amelia Parker for BBC Audio Wales & West. For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for John Rutter (b 1945) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002mk0y. And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

This week, Kate Molleson explores the life and work of a musical giant – drummer and composer Max Roach – in the company of writer and broadcaster Kevin Le Gendre. Together they trace Roach’s extraordinary journey: from his early days at the heart of bebop alongside Bud Powell, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker, through his pioneering role as a bandleader, his political activism during the civil rights era, and his later innovations in percussion and collaboration. Roach’s story is one of constant reinvention as performer, composer and activist, shaping jazz and beyond for more than half a century.Music includes: Dr Free-Zee (from Max Roach +4) Joy Spring (from Clifford Brown and Max Roach) Bu Dee Daht (from Coleman Hawkins: Rainbow Mist) Salt Peanuts (from Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker: Town Hall, New York City, June 22, 1945) Ko-Ko (from Charlie Parker: The Complete Savoy and Dial Master Takes) Bird Gets the Worm (from Charlie Parker: The Complete Savoy and Dial Master Takes) Move (from Miles Davis: The Complete Birth of the Cool) Cherokee (from Jazz at Massey Hall) Cou Manchi-Cou (from Max Roach Quartet, featuring Hank Mobley) Maximum (from In the Beginning) Daahoud (from Clifford Brown and Max Roach) Sandu (from Study in Brown) Take the A Train (from Study in Brown) Fleurette Africain (from Money Jungle) Driva’man (from We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite) Freedom Day (from We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite) Garvey’s Ghost (from Percussion Bitter Sweet) Lonesome Lover (from It’s Time: Max Roach, his Chorus and Orchestra) The Drum Also Waltzes (from Drums Unlimited) Libra (from Members Don’t Git Weary) Let Thy People Go (from Lift Every Voice and Sing) Joshua (from Lift Every Voice and Sing) A Quiet Place (from Collage) Double Delight (from Bright Moments) Spirit Possession (from Birth and Rebirth) Love is a Many Splendored Thing (from Clifford Brown and Max Roach at Basin Street) Presented by Kate Molleson. Produced by Martin Williams for BBC Audio Wales & West. For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Max Roach (1924-2007) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002mb7w. And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

This week, Donald Macleod explores Wagner’s world of dreams – musical, romantic and revolutionary. Wagner didn’t just write operas; he imagined entire worlds, reshaping reality to fit his ideals. His stories blur fact and fantasy, turning myth into truth and politics into drama. From youthful ambitions and radical uprisings to scandal, patronage and the creation of Bayreuth, we follow a composer whose dreams were as grand as his music.Götterdämmerung, Act III: Siegfried’s Funeral March Die Feen, Act II: Weh uns, weh!; O musst du, Hoffnung, schwinden Piano Sonata in B-flat Major, WWV 21, Op. 1 (ii. Larghetto) Lohengrin, Act III: Prelude and Bridal Chorus Das Liebesverbot, Act 1: Kennst du das Leid der Elternlosen; Herbei, betrognes Volk The Flying Dutchman, Extract from Act III Rienzi, Overture Das Rheingold, Prelude and Scene 1 Tristan und Isolde, Act 3: Isoldes Liebestod Albumblatt (arr. August Wilhelmj) Huldigungsmarsch Lohengrin, Act III: In fernem Land “Grail Narration” Tristan und Isolde, Extract from Act II Siegfried, Love duet from Act III Scene 3 Parsifal, Act III Suite, ed. Abbado: Good Friday Music Siegfried, extract from Act II Scene 1 Kinder-Katechismus Die Walküre, Act III Scene 3: Wotan’s Farewell and Magic Fire MusicPresented by Donald Macleod. Produced by Ellie Ajao for BBC Audio Wales & West.For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Richard Wagner: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002m0kk.And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Elfrida Andrée, a Swedish composer and organist who fought for women’s rights in classical music. Featuring guests Anastasia Belina and Jonas Lundblad. Music Featured: Fritiof Suite Summer memories from Bjurslätt Piano Sonata in A, Op 3 An angel walks through the room Symphony No 1 Romance No 2 Serenade String Quartet in A major Chorale with variations in D minor Piano Quintet in E minor Andante quasi recitativo Swedish Mass No 1 Symphony No 2 Four Piano Pieces Symphony No 2 Piano Trio in G minor Organ Symphony No 1 in B minor Presented by Donald Macleod Produced by Luke Whitlock for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Elfrida Andrée (1841-1929): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002lnpf And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

This week, Donald Macleod explores the life and music of the often overlooked younger Haydn brother, Michael. From his early years in Vienna to his long tenure in Salzburg, Michael Haydn’s career was shaped by family ties, shifting patronage, and ecclesiastical politics. His relationship with the Mozart family ranged from friendly collaboration to bitter rivalry, and his music—both sacred and secular—reflected the changing demands of the church and court. As he aged, Michael faced new opportunities and challenges, including a long-awaited reunion with his brother Joseph and a prestigious job offer that stirred unexpected doubts.Requiem in C minor pro defuncto Archiepiscopo Sigismund, MH 155 Symphony No 32 in D Major, P 23 Missa Sancti Aloysii, MH 257 Concerto for Harpsichord and Viola in C major, MH 41 Missa Sanctae Crucis, MH 56 Symphony in B flat major, MH 82 Trumpet Concerto in C major, MH 60 Die Hochzeit auf der Alm Notturno in F major, MH 185 Missa Sancti Hieronymi Symphony No 24 in A major, P 15 Tenuisti manum, MH 695 Missa Quadragesimalis, MH 552 Divertimento in C major, P 98 Ninfe inbelli Missa Sancta Theresiae Der Obersulzer Wein, MH 697 Abendlied, MH 784 Trinklied im Freien, MH 790 Flute Concerto in D Major MH 81 Divertimento in C, MH 600 Missa sub titulo Sancti Leopoldi, MH 837 Endimione: Vado per un momento Presented by Donald Macleod. Produced by Chris Taylor for BBC Audio Wales & West. For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Michael Haydn https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002lcjr. And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

To celebrate the centenary of his birth, Kate Molleson explores the life and music of one of most influential figures in all of modern music – Luciano Berio. Berio’s music is lyrical and expressive, while never ignoring the most advanced techniques and technologies of his time. He worked with many key figures in 20th Century music while always following his own, very individual path, both through life and in his music, where he constantly pushed at and broke the boundaries he encountered. Music featured: Folk Différences Petite Suite Coro Sequenza IV Canzonetta for piano 4 hands Sequenza III Chamber Music No 1 “Strings in the Earth and Air” Visage Beatles Songs - “Yesterday” Requies Cinque variazioni Calmo (in memorium Bruno Maderna) Thema - Omaggio a Joyce Chemins I (su sequenza II) for harp and orchestra Folk Songs Sequenza V Laborintus II Sinfonia E si fussi pisci Sequenza IX Rendering (2nd mvt, Andante) Altra voce Presented by Kate Molleson Produced by Sam Phillips for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Luciano Berio (1925-2003): https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002kz1p And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Johann Sebastian Bach is a towering cultural icon, a composer who might be seen as the poster boy for “serious music” and spent most of his career in the service of the church. But he played many roles in the course of his life, and could be funny, sassy, conniving, obstinate, and rebellious. Donald Macleod dives into Bach's secular music, and follows his trail as he makes his way in the world, from courts to coffee houses, building a family, two-timing his bosses, and even a stint behind bars.Featured music: Brandenburg Concerto No 5, BWV1050 (i. Allegro) Flute Sonata in E minor, BWV1034 Capriccio in honorem Johann Christoph Bach BWV993 Partita for solo violin No. 2 in D minor, BWV1004 (v. Chaconne) Organ Sonata No 4, BWV528 Lute Suite No 1 in E minor, BWV996 Partita for Solo Violin in E major, BWV1006 (IV. Menuet) Fugue in G minor for violin and basso continuo, BWV1026 Trio Sonata No 2 in C minor, BWV 526 Concerto after Vivaldi in A minor, BWV593 (i. Allegro) Cantata BWV208 'Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd!' (excerpt) Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV565 Prelude and Fugue in F minor Prelude in D minor, BWV851 Brandenburg Concerto No 5, BWV1050 (iii. Allegro) Cantata BWV134a ‘Die Zeit, die Tag und Jahre macht’: Ergetzet auf Erden Bach Collegium Japan Cello Suite No 2 in D minor, BWV1008 (Sarabande and minuets) French Suite No 4 in E-flat major, BWV815 (1st-4th movements) Brandenburg Concerto No 4 in G major, BWV1049 Harpsichord Concerto BWV 1054 (iii. Allegro) Double Violin Concerto, BWV1043 (1st movement) Cantata, BWV214 “'Tönet, ihr Pauken'” (opening chorus) Orchestral Suite No 2, BWV1067 (3rd – 7th movements) Cantata BWV211 'Schweigt stille, plaudert nicht' (Coffee Cantata) “Peasant” Cantata – Mer hahn ein neue Oberkeet, BWV212: “Wir gehn nun wo der Dudelsak” Double Violin Concerto, BWV1043 (2nd movement) Orchestral Suite No 3, BWV1068 (iii. Gavotte to v. Gigue) Goldberg Variations, BWV988 (Aria and Variations 1-5) Musical Offering, BWV1079: Ricercar a 6 The Contest Between Phoebus and Pan, BWV201 (“Pan ist Meister”….end)Presented by Donald Macleod Produced by Amelia Parker for BBC Audio Wales & WestFor full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Johann Sebastian Bach: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002kdkg And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Kate Molleson speaks to Jamaican-born composer Eleanor Alberga about her life and career. Eleanor Alberga is a quietly rebellious composer. She draws inspiration from Jamaican folk songs, children's fairytales, ancient mythology - even chemistry. She was one of the first pianists to take modern dance seriously. And as a student, she arrived to performances on a motorcycle. Alberga joins Kate Molleson and takes us on a journey from Kingston to London and beyond. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Jamaican Medley Nightscape It’s Time Strata Tower The Soul’s Expression No Man’s Land Lullaby Dancing with the Shadow Clouds Ice Flow The Wild Blue Yonder String Quartet No. 3 Cwicseolfor Deep Blue Sea Piano Concerto Presented by Kate Molleson Produced by Alice McKee for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Eleanor Alberga https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002k3rh And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z

Donald Macleod explores the life of Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo.The Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo is responsible for one of the most instantly recognisable works for classical guitar - if not one of the most famous pieces of classical music full stop. But when he was just three years old, a bout of diptheria left him almost completely blind, and a future in composition seemed out of the question. How did he become one of Spain's most revered musical minds?Music featured: Concierto de Aranjuez 2 Esbozos Rumaniana 3 Evocaciones 5 Sonatas de Castilla con toccata a modo de pregón Juglares Zarabanda Lejana Pastorale 2 Berceuses Bagatela Preludio de anoranza Suite pour piano Preludio para un poema a la Alhambra 5 piezas infantiles Serenata española Tres Danzas de España Cuatro estampas andaluzas Sonada de adios (Homenaje a Paul Dukas) Per la flor del lliri blau Cuatros Piezas Cancion Del Cucu Coplas del pastor enamorado En los trigales Tiento antiguo Junto al Generalife Fantasia para un Gentilhombre: I. Villano y Ricercare Concierto de estio: Siciliana: Andantino Invocacion y danza Ausencias de Dulcinea Concierto para una fiesta: Andante calmoPresented by Donald Macleod Produced by Alice McKee for BBC Audio Wales & West For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Joaquin Rodrigo (1901-1999) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002jfqx And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z