BBC to celebrate 75 years of Maida Vale

The BBC has unveiled a special day of events and broadcasts planned to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Maida Vale Studios.

On October 30, all of the BBC's radio networks will broadcast programmes from the historic venue, including a special edition of BBC Radio 4's Front Row and a performance by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa with the BBC Symphony Orchestra for BBC Radio 2.

Along with 75 classic Maida Vale session tracks being played over the day, BBC Radio 1 will also broadcast a Live Lounge with Snow Patrol from the building.

BBC 6 Music's Craig Charles and BBC 1Xtra's Max will deliver sets from the venue and the BBC Symphony Orchestra will give a session for BBC Radio 3.

The BBC started using Maida Vale in 1934 when the BBC Singers and BBC Symphony Orchestra moved into the building.

During the Second World War, the venue was used to broadcast news throughout Europe. It then became home to the experimental BBC Radiophonic Workshop from 1958 to 1996 and also BBC Radio 1's Peel Sessions from 1967 until John Peel's death in 2004.

Over the years, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles and David Bowie have all given performances at Maida Vale.

BBC audio & music director Tim Davie said: "Maida Vale has played a unique role in British music and arts for 75 years. The thousands of people who have passed through its doors have created some of BBC Radio's most memorable moments.

"Our celebrations promise to offer listeners some exceptional live performances which are a fitting tribute to this legendary venue."