BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Key Matters

Music: Classical

Ivan Hewett explores how different musical keys seem to have distinct characteristics

Ivan Hewett explores how different musical keys seem to have distinct characteristics and create specific moods

Key Matters: Series 2

Key Matters: Series 2: Episode 5: D Major

Documentaries

Music

Episode 5

Episode 5: D Major

Series 2

D Major

BBC Radio 4 - Key Matters, Series 2, D Major

Ivan Hewett talks with violinist Daniel Hope about the key of D major.

Ivan Hewett talks with violinist Daniel Hope about the key of D Major, in an attempt to discover why it often conveys a sense of majesty and glory.

Ivan Hewett explores the question of why certain musical keys have become associated with particular moods. For example, why is A major almost always employed by composers to write optimistic, even ecstatic music? And how has E minor become the key of choice for portraying menace and tragedy? 

In this programme Ivan talks with violinist, Daniel Hope about the majesty and glory of D major.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Key Matters

Series 2

Episode 5: D Major

Genres

Formats

Brand

Series

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4