J to Z replaces Jazz Line as BBC Radio 3 refreshes weekend programming

30pm, and continue each week in this time-slot. The programme will focus on the past, present and future of jazz and will be presented by the award-winning vocalist, Jumoké Fashola (pictured) alongside Julian Joseph and Kevin Le Gendre. The show will feature exciting new tracks, live sessions and exclusive recordings from European and UK jazz concerts every week, and also regularly hit the road to present jazz events and features from across the country.

Jumoké Fashola commented on joining the programme: "It is a total dream come true to be presenting J to Z on BBC Radio 3. I am looking forward to introducing our audiences to the finest jazz; incredible live sessions from some of the most uber musicians on the scene and getting a chance to delve into classic jazz archives. Jazz is an ever evolving, thrilling art form and I can't wait to share my passion with the listeners, whether they are just curious about jazz or already aficionados."

Alongside the radio show will be a series of J to Z podcasts, featuring jazz musicians discussing the musical moments that inspired them. They will also break down important recordings to focus on the drum break, chord sequence or trumpet solo that changed the way these musicians approach their own music. J to Z is produced by Somethin' Else for BBC Radio 3, who previously produced Jazz on 3 for 18 years, before Jazz Now took its Monday night slot in April 2016.

The programme is part of a refreshed weekend agenda's 'after dark zone', as announced by BBC Radio 3 controller Alan Davey, with other new shows announced include: Choir and Organ (1 April, 4-5pm) presented by the acclaimed baritone Roderick Williams, who discusses and presents organ and choral music and performances; Music Planet (6 April, 11pm -1am) covers music from across the globe, with classic tracks and new releases from roots-based music; Inside Music with Colin Currie (7 April, 1-3pm) will give listeners the chance to rediscover their favourite music with guidance from musicians; Drama on 3 (8 April, 7.30pm) will open with Henrik Ibsen's masterpiece The Wild Duck starring David Threlfall, and After Dark (21-22 April, 10pm, Mon-Fri) will launch its new late zone with a special week-long season, Night Blossoms, exploring the mysterious, counter-cultural and unexpected side of Japanese music and arts.

– Gabrielle Wanda

For full details visit www.bbc.co.uk/radio3