Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio 3,08 May 2026,210 mins

Essential Classics marks Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday

Essential Classics

Available for 28 days

Georgia Mann plays the best in classical music, with a special celebration today of Sir David Attenborough at 100, including some of his favourite music that he has listened to around the world while making nature series, a special playlist inspired by his favourite birdsong, and archive moments of Sir David talking about nature and the music that means the most to him. 1000 Playlister starter: a special edition inspired by David Attenborough's favourite birdsong. 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”.

Programme Website
More episodes

Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    Waltz (Coppelia)
    Waltz (Coppelia)
    Léo Delibes
  3. 2.
    Symphony no. 52 in C minor H.1.52: IV Finale (Presto)
    Symphony no. 52 in C minor H.1.52: IV Finale (Presto)
    Joseph Haydn
  4. 3.
    String Quintet No. 4 in G Minor, K. 516: III. Adagio ma non troppo
    String Quintet No. 4 in G Minor, K. 516: III. Adagio ma non troppo
    Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart