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Episode details

Radio 3,04 Oct 2026,89 mins

Steve Reich at 90 - Different Trains

Radio 3 in Concert

Available for 28 days

Radio 3 marks the 90th birthday this weekend of American composer and pioneer of minimalism Steve Reich, with highlights from a weekend of concerts brought to you live from the Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead and introduced by Tom Service. This first concert features music by the composer, guitarist and Reich collaborator Bryce Dessner alongside one of Reich's best known works - Different Trains - a musical evocation of a railroad journey from Reich's youth contrasted with the idea that as a Jew, had he been travelling in Europe at this same time, his train journey could have been horrifyingly different. The Royal Northern Sinfonia is conducted by an another musician who has enjoyed a long and fruitful artistic relationship with Steve Reich, Colin Currie. Presented by Tom Service, live from Glasshouse in Gateshead. Bryce Dessner: Garcia Counterpoint Bryce Dessner: Aheym Bryce Dessner: Tromp Miniature Bryce Dessner: Murder Ballades Steve Reich: Different Trains Royal Northern Sinfonia Colin Currie (conductor/percussion) Bryce Dessner (electric guitar) To listen on most smart speakers, just say "ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert."

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Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    Garcia Counterpoint
    Garcia Counterpoint
    Bryce Dessner
  3. 2.
    Aheym (Homeward)
    Aheym (Homeward)
    Bryce Dessner
  4. 3.
    Tromp Miniature
    Tromp Miniature
    Bryce Dessner
  5. 4.
    Murder Ballades
    Murder Ballades
    Bryce Dessner
  6. 5.
    Different Trains
    Different Trains
    Steve Reich