Great Lives

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

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Factual: Life Stories

Biographical series in which guests choose someone who has inspired their lives.

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Great Lives: Charlie Parker nominated by Ken Clarke

Charlie Parker nominated by Ken Clarke

BBC Radio 4 - Great Lives, Charlie Parker nominated by Ken Clarke

Charlie Parker - Bird - proposed by Ken Clarke

Jazz sax player Charlie Parker, known as Bird, who died aged 34

From Kansas City to New York, young Charlie Parker conquered the world of jazz.. He was famous during his life, and even more famous after he died aged 34. He's nominated here by former health minister, home secretary and chancellor of the exchequer, Kenneth Clarke. Together with Richard Williams and Val Wilmer, Ken recounts what made Bird great, and why he died so very young. 

"If you look at the street scenes of Harlem in 1940, it was a squalid place. Club life in New York was probably a smart escape." Ken Clarke

The programme also includes clips by Dizzy Gillespie and Annie Ross. and music such as Koko and Now's the Time.
The presenter is Matthew Parris, and the producer in Bristol is Miles Warde.

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

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Great Lives

Charlie Parker nominated by Ken Clarke

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