Olivier Messiaen: Colours of the infinite
Kate Molleson and Gillian Moore shine new light on the 'modern' music of the 20th century. This week: worlds of colour, ecstasy and birdsong in the music of a French master.
Kate Molleson and Gillian Moore present Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Radio 3's series exploring the pivotal 'modern' musical works of the 20th century, the groundbreaking composers who created them, and the radical cultural and artistic movements which gave rise to them. In this episode, Gillian explores the worlds of colour, ecstasy and birdsong to be found in the music of Olivier Messiaen, leading to a full listen to one of his most radicals pieces: 1960’s Chronochromie. We will find out how Messiaen passed on his belief in the importance of light and colour to his students; discover a world of complexity which gave birth to a new musical movement; and meet the 'greatest of all organists' sitting at the keys of the organ of La Madeleine, Paris.
Produced by Sam Phillips
A Reduced Listening production for Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Radio 3
To listen on most smart speakers, just say 'ask Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Sounds to play 20th Century Radicals'.
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- Sun 1 Feb 2026 21:00Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ Radio 3