Bauer’s Magic Classical will mark what would have been Luciano Pavarotti’s 90th birthday with a weekend of special programming led by Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins.
The station is joining forces with Decca Classics to celebrate the release of ‘Novanta’, a 74-track compilation featuring highlights from the legendary tenor’s career, including previously unreleased recordings and iconic duets.
Katherine will host a new documentary, *Pavarotti at 90 with Katherine Jenkins*, exploring the life and legacy of the world-renowned singer. The special includes archive performances and interviews with admirers and collaborators such as Russell Watson, Gareth Malone, and Fred Plotkin, who worked with Pavarotti for nearly three decades.
Speaking about the project, Katherine said: “It is such a joy to present this documentary exploring the remarkable journey of Luciano Pavarotti from his humble beginnings to becoming the legendary superstar we all know and love. His artistry shaped my own career and deepened my passion for music.”
The tribute weekend will begin on Friday 12 October, with all Magic Classical programmes reflecting on Pavarotti’s enduring influence. Simon Mayo will dedicate his Sunday morning show to the tenor, featuring music connected to his career, from The Three Tenors to Puccini classics like *La Bohème* and *Madama Butterfly*.
Regular Magic Classical presenters including Charles Nove, Tim Smith, Fran Godfrey, and Ayanna Witter-Johnson will also take part in “Pavarotti Forever”, sharing their favourite arias and performances, while “Magic Classical’s Top 5” on the Rayo app will highlight his most-loved recordings.
Nick Pitts, Content Director of Magic Classical and Jazz FM, said: “It’s not often you get to celebrate a legend like Luciano Pavarotti. I’m so pleased that Decca Classics have come on board, and having Katherine Jenkins tell his story makes it all the more special.”
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On the Magic Classical Breakfast Show, Charles Nove will reveal the number one Pavarotti performance in his Magic Classical Top 5 of his music (running daily from Monday 6th October)
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Tim Smith will be joined by Katherine Jenkins to preview her documentary and talk about her love of Pavarotti.
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Jo Cochrane will feature 1990 in her Time Capsule feature – the year of the Three Tenors and that world cup in Italy
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Tony Minivielle will feature Pavarotti performing Puccini – Che Gelida Manina (from La Boheme) in his Essential Aria feature