Composer of the Week Podcast

Donald Macleod explores the life and music of Handel, the German-born composer who arrived in Georgian London just as the fascination for Italian opera was taking hold

23 Des 20111h 1min

Donald Macleod introduces the life and music of Beethoven during the turbulent years from 1806 to 1812, when he produced some of the greatest masterpieces of his life.

16 Des 20111h 1min

Donald Macleod explores the 18th century's longest-running concert series, Le Concert Spirituel, with expert guides Lionel Sawkins and Beverly Wilcox

9 Des 20111h 13min

Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Bedrich Smetana, a composer credited with founding a national style of Czech music

2 Des 20111h 2min

Donald Macleod explores the unconventional life and music of Australian-born composer, arranger and pianist Percy Grainger

25 Nov 20111h 4min

Donald Macleod is joined by writer and broadcaster Geoffrey Smith to explore the jazz mode of bebop. It emerged in the 1940s, out of different combinations of musicians, styles and places

18 Nov 201158min

Donald Macleod and Terry Charman from the Imperial War Museum explore the life and music of Elgar during the First World War, tracing how events affected him

11 Nov 20111h 14min

Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Alessandro Scarlatti, who is seen as the founder of Neapolitan opera. He appraises the composer's legacy, asking if we should re-evaluate his importance

4 Nov 201159min