Original version

BBC Radio 3 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced Third Programme.

BBC Radio 3

Radio 3

BBC Proms

Music: Classical

Live music and the arts: broadcasts more live music than any other radio network. Classical music is its core. Genres include world and new music, jazz, speech and drama.

The world's greatest classical music festival - stunning performances and collaborations.

The world's greatest classical music festival. Stunning performances, unique collaborations and the sheer joy of live music. Relive 2023's highlights before the new season begins.

BBC Proms: 2011: Proms Chamber Music

BBC Proms: 2011: Proms Chamber Music: Part 1: PCM 01 - Bach's Goldberg Variations

Performances & Events

PCM 01 - Bach's Goldberg Variations

Part 1 Part 1: PCM 01 - Bach's Goldberg Variations

2011

BBC Radio 3 - BBC Proms, 2011, Proms Chamber Music, PCM 01 - Bach's Goldberg Variations

Mahan Esfahani (harpsichord) performs Bach's masterwork the Goldberg Variations.

From Cadogan Hall, London, Catherine Bott presents harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani performing Bach's masterwork the Goldberg Variations.

BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011

Live from Cadogan Hall, London 

Presented by Catherine Bott

Acclaimed harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani performs a masterwork by J.S. Bach, "composed for music lovers to refresh their spirits" according to its first edition.

Consisting of an exquisitely beautiful aria and a set of 30 variations, this is one of the great examples of variation form as well as a peak of the keyboard repertoire. These days the Goldberg Variations are often played on the piano by performers who believe the piano is a more communicative instrument, but Esfahani dismisses the views of those who think the harpsichord inexpressive in one word - "absurd!". Listen to what is sure to be a masterful performance and judge for yourself. 

J.S. Bach: 'Goldberg' Variations BWV 988

Mahan Esfahani (harpsichord)

This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 23 July at 2pm.

BBC Proms: 2011

Proms Chamber Music

BBC Four

Knowledge, arts, music and culture from the UK and the world.

BBC Four reflects arts, music and culture with an ambitious range of intellectually and culturally enriching programmes, taking an expert and in-depth approach to its subjects.

All broadcasts from the 117th season of the BBC Proms.

Series of concerts by small classical musical ensembles, broadcast from Cadogan Hall

Accessibility links

Programme Index

BBC Proms

2011

Proms Chamber Music

Part 1: PCM 01 - Bach's Goldberg Variations

Genres

Formats

Brand

Series

Series

BBC Radio 3

About BBC Radio 3