Radio 4's "The Music Group"

[Alex_UK]

I've never heard this programme before - but caught it yesterday afternoon at 1.30pm - the first programme of Series 5. The basic premise is that "Comedian, broadcaster and GP Dr Phil Hammond asks each of three guests to play the track of their choice for the delight or disdain of the others."

Yesterday's programme featured novelist David Nicholls, voiceover artist Julie Berry, and comedian Stewart Lee to discuss three personally significant pieces of music. (I had never heard of any of them, but that didn't stop me enjoying the programme.)

The music choices of each were Shipbuilding sung by Robert Wyatt, Bach's Chaconne from Partita No.2 for solo violin performed by Yehudi Menuhin and 5 Weeks Later by Derek Bailey. This latter piece was a particular "challenge" for me, but it made an interesting story!

I thoroughly enjoyed the show, and will be checking back for more. (Also appears to be broadcast on a Saturday at 3.30pm.) Lasts 30 minutes, and is available on iplayer, here's a link to yesterday's broadcast.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b010m9t0#synopsis

[Thing Fish]

Sounds cool. I will check it out on the Iplayer tonight. Thanks for the heads up...:)

[Alex_UK]

Sounds cool. I will check it out on the Iplayer tonight. Thanks for the heads up...:)

Like a lot of Radio 4, it can be a bit "up it's own arse" but hope you enjoy it Dave. :)

(Cue all the anti-Beeb protesters! :lolsign:)

[The Grand Wazoo]

I heard it too, it was a good show.
I once went to see Derek Bailey in perform in an art gallery in Nottingham. The word 'challenging' that you use in this context is a good one!
This is the only performance I've ever walked out of. I tried.....I really tried....& I lasted longer than most of the audience! But I just couldn't see beyond a bloke making noises from a guitar in any way possible other than plucking or strumming notes or chords.
He had a rather nice reel to reel deck recording the proceedings out in the next room, though!

[colinB]

I once dj' d at a venue with Harry Becket and Derek Bailey. Becket did this great funky bluesy set and then Bailey came on. Dont want to disrespect the dead but i think its fair to say he killed the night.