BBC Music April 2025

Last but definitely not least in our World War II-themed trilogy is a celebration of pianist Myra Hess, who did so much to raise wartime morale with her daily recitals at the National Gallery. But, as Jessica Duchen reveals, there's much more to Myra's legacy than these concerts, crucial as they were to our national mood.

There's another major anniversary to mark this month. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s consummate artistry enthralled all who heard him sing and, on the centenary of his birth, Andrew Green assesses the German baritone's huge impact on the history of art song.

Elsewhere, Ariane Todes hears how cellist Matthew Barley’s Light Stories project has helped him to work through trauma dating back to a psychotic event in his teens. And, for our travel feature, Claire Jackson heads to Prague, Czechia, the vibrant home of not one, but two leading Czech composers - each honoured with his own prestigious festival.