Radio 3 takes oral history

BBC Radio 3 has teamed up with SOAS, University of London, to combine expertise, ideas and knowledge in order to further understand how traditional music is transmitted orally across generations.

The collaboration is part of Radio 3’s 2013 World Routes Academy scheme, which provides talented young world music artists based in the UK with the chance to explore their musical roots.

The scheme annually offers a young musician the chance to learn from and perform with a great musician from their country of origin.

Dr Lucy Duran said: “I am delighted that Radio 3 and SOAS are teaming up for the 2013 World Routes Academy. The collaboration goes right to the heart of the scheme, bringing world-class expertise in academia and broadcasting to our audiences, and bringing new insights into the way into which music is learnt in oral traditions and passed from generation to generation.”

In 2013, the scheme focuses on the Mugham tradition of Azeri singing with World Routes Academy protégée, Fidan Hajiyeva. SOAS music lecturer Dr Lucy Durán will follow Fidan’s musical progress as she learns from her highly acclaimed mugham mentor Gochaq Askarov. Her journey will be documented in programmes recorded on location in Azerbaijan and London, and broadcast on Radio 3’s prestigious world music programme, World Routes, (Sunday evenings at 10.00pm).

Radio 3 Senior Producer, James Parkin, adds: “Radio 3 is committed to nurturing new talent. World Routes Academy has always been about education, so teaming up with one of the world’s most respected international music departments is a thrilling development.”

The project culminates in performances by both protegée and mentor at UK festivals over the summer, including WOMAD at Charleton Park, and the BBC Proms on Thursday 22nd of August at the Royal Albert Hall in London.