This Christmas, we invite you to spend the most magical moments of the season with us, as our presenters curate a rich and generous day of music that moves effortlessly between jazz, classical masterworks, and global sounds, all wrapped in festive spirit.
Christmas Eve begins at 12pm with Jazz Oasis, hosted by Paul Sireci. This midday program offers a relaxed yet sparkling take on Christmas, featuring jazz-inflected seasonal favourites and inspired reinterpretations. Expect everything from the cool sophistication of Frank Sinatra to the soulful swing of Lee Morgan, alongside festive colours from Herbie Hancock, Dave McKenna, Louis Armstrong and Dave Brubeck. Adding extra warmth and surprise are global touches from The Sapphires, Bossa Cubana and even Villa-Lobos, creating a Christmas soundtrack that’s elegant, reflective and joyfully unexpected.
At 7pm, Xavier Bichon presents a special Christmas edition of Planet Jazz. True to the program’s adventurous spirit, this hour travels well beyond familiar carols. Listeners can expect gypsy jazz, Scandinavian winter songs, Cuban rhythms and Christmas music from around the world, a vibrant, border-crossing celebration that reminds us how universal the season truly is.
The evening continues at 10.30pm with a special Music of the Night, presented by James Nightingale. This deeply atmospheric program explores Christmas through powerful and contemplative classical works. Highlights include excerpts from Korngold’s The Snowman, Messiaen’s radiant Vingt regards sur l’Enfant-Jésus, and Penderecki’s profound Symphony No. 2 – Christmas. It’s an ideal late-night listening experience: thoughtful, luminous and quietly awe-inspiring.
On Christmas Day, the festivities resume at 12pm with Sue Jowell’s Jazz after Noon. Step straight into the heart of Christmas with a joyful selection of jazz favourites, including Count Basie with Johnny Mathis, Lionel Hampton, Fats Waller and Louis Armstrong. From swinging jingle bells to Harlem holiday nights, this program captures the warmth, humour and irresistible groove of Christmas jazz.
At 1 pm, join presenter Ian MacDonald in Fine Afternoons as he explores Handel’s masterpieces, with a special focus on Messiah (HWV 56, 1742) and its enduring power. Also featured is the radiant aria Let the Bright Seraphim from Samson (HWV 57, 1743). Celebrate the brilliance of Handel this Christmas Day through his timeless music, illuminating the season with festive and awe-inspiring baroque splendour.
At 4pm, Marilyn Schock presents a special Fine Music Holiday, featuring treasured seasonal works from across traditions. Highlights include Ariel Ramírez’s Navidad Nuestra, Vaughan Williams’ beloved Fantasia on Christmas Carols, and Corelli’s timeless Christmas Concerto, music that speaks to faith, folklore and festive beauty.
Finally, at 7pm, Franck Presley rounds out the day with A Jazz Compass – Christmas Special. Featuring artists like Keahiwai, Kate and Anna McGarrigle, and Wynton Marsalis, this program blends tradition with contemporary flair, offering a fresh and heartfelt conclusion to our Christmas celebrations.
Join us across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for music that comforts, surprises and delights, wherever you are, you’re warmly invited. 🎄