Between the Ears: The M1 Symphony

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

Between the Ears

Documentaries

Factual: Arts, Culture & the Media

Innovative and thought-provoking features on a wide variety of subjects

Innovative and thought-provoking features that make adventurous use of sound and explore a wide variety of subjects. Made by leading radio producers.

The M1 Symphony

Programmes

Sorry, that page was not found

The life of the M1 in words, sounds and an epic work played by the BBC Philharmonic

The routines and dramas of the mighty M1 captured in words, sounds and a thrilling original work played by the BBC Philharmonic.

The dynamic, often dramatic, life of the M1 in words, sounds and a thrilling work performed by the BBC Philharmonic.

In a powerful composition specially commissioned by BBC Radio 3, The M1 Symphony depicts how the M1 has transformed the British landscape and millions of lives.  A place of routine and drama, where a momentary lapse can change everything, with terrifying speed.

Documentary producer Laurence Grissell and composer Alex Woolf first collaborated on The NHS Symphony for Radio 3.  This work explores a very different but no less transformative feature of British life.  

When it was opened in 1959, the M1 was truly revolutionary. No roundabouts, no crossroads, no traffic lights, just one continuous road connecting north and south.  It dramatically cut traffic jams and journey times.

But from day one, the M1 would extract a high human and environmental cost.  

A life-changing collision, an endangered ancient woodland and the soul-destroying frustrations of the daily commute form part of this unique tapestry of new interviews, archive recordings, ambient sounds and original music.

Conductor: Mark Heron
Composer: Alex Woolf
Music producer: Sarah Devonald
Producer: Laurence Grissell

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.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Between the Ears

The M1 Symphony

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 3

About BBC Radio 3