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Episode details

Radio 3,19 Sep 2026,60 mins

Jess Gillam with... Lara Downes

This Classical Life

Available for 28 days

Jess Gillam is joined by American pianist, activist, and broadcaster Lara Downes, for a listening party. American pianist Lara Downes is dedicated championing new and neglected music and to using music to create positive social impact. Jess speaks to her ahead of her recital at Wigmore Hall on Tuesday 10th November. Her musical choices include works by Florence Price, Leonard Bernstein, Stevie Wonder, and Nina Simone. In exchange, Jess shares tracks by Philip Glass, Armenian pianist composer Arno Babadjanian, and Jazz chamber outfit Vega Trails. To listen on most smart speakers, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3”.

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Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    Violin Sonata in G major (3rd movt)
    Violin Sonata in G major (3rd movt)
    Jean‐Marie Leclair
  3. 2.
    Lusty and Joyful (from American Sonata)
    Lusty and Joyful (from American Sonata)
    Elie Siegmeister
  4. 3.
    Symphony No. 3 in C Minor: III. Juba. Allegro
    Symphony No. 3 in C Minor: III. Juba. Allegro
    Florence Price