Radio 3's In Tune - behind the scenes
Today, In Tune comes live from Hoddinott Hall in Cardiff where the BBC NOW, conducted by Thierry Fischer, will play music by two of Radio 3's "anniversary" composers, Mendelssohn and Haydn, as well as works by Stravinsky, Massenet and Frank Martin. And making a special guest appearance with the orchestra, Welsh harpist Catrin Finch will perform music by Debussy.
As I write, there's a white heat of activity in the office as the producer and broadcasting assistant finalise the running order for the programme, and come up with creative ideas for potential interview inserts. Ideas suggested have included the Welsh College of Music and Drama redevelopment, the Welsh Sinfonia going at it alone as an orchestra but for the final decision, listen today at 5pm...
As researcher for the programme, I keep tabs on filling our two main slots on each show. With countless offers coming in constantly, new CDs to listen to and knowing what's on throughout the UK, we try and book a wide range of guests, with varying repertoire to give the show its unique balance, making it different from other programmes.
Last night's show was no exception: with world renowned Baroque cellist Anner Bylsma down-the-line from a studio in Amsterdam as well as Beethoven specialist Jonathan Del Mar and cellist Ralph Kirshbaum. We also had interviews with baritones Christopher Maltman and Sir Thomas Allen, and featured the Dudley Piano Competition as a news piece. (We like to cover arts news stories here - our mornings are often spent digging through that day's press to find that last minute addition to make that day's programme up-to-the minute) If you missed the programme, remember you can always listen again on the BBC iPlayer.
...For those of us in Broadcasting House today, we too will be waiting eagerly for the Cardiff programme to begin, but we'll also be enjoying our Friday 4 o'clock highlight - our lucky senior producer celebrates a great week by buying his team tea and cake.
Calantha Haggie is Radio 3's researcher for In Tune
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