Classic FM, the UK’s most popular classical music station, has signed Dr Alex George to host a landmark series focusing on health, well-being and the benefits of listening to and performing classical music.

Inner Harmony with Dr Alex George – the A&E doctor and UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador – launches on Sunday 16th January (9pm), at the start of Classic FM’s 30th birthday year.

Each hour-long programme will be themed around a particular topic related to health and wellness combined with thoughtfully curated classical music. Episodes will cover topics such as supporting mental health, exercise and physical activity, the importance of a daily routine, and how to best relax and recharge. The series will also celebrate the fascinating and colourful lives of the most well-known and admired classical composers, some of whom faced significant challenges with their mental and physical health. Dr Alex, who has recently started to learn the piano, will offer practical advice and tips alongside sharing some of the greatest classical music.

In the first programme, the day before so-called ‘Blue Monday’, Dr Alex will focus on the importance of a healthy mind with music including Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2, Ludovico Einaudi’s I Giorni and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. He will also explore the life of Tchaikovsky, one of the world’s most celebrated composers, who suffered from deep insecurities and low self-esteem – and will give advice on how we can overcome similar issues in the 21st century.

"I’m absolutely delighted and thrilled to be presenting this series for Classic FM. Inner Harmony combines two passions of mine – music and health – bringing to the fore just how intertwined the two can be.

"There are so many benefits to both our body and our mind from listening to classical music and we can learn so much from the stories of the composers and musicians of these pieces.

"Over the next six weeks, I will be focusing on different areas of health and sharing top tips for a healthy and happy 2022. I just can’t wait to get started!” - DR ALEX GEORGE, HOST OF INNER HARMONY ON CLASSIC FM

Philip Noyce, Classic FM’s Managing Editor, said: “Our mental and physical wellbeing is of upmost importance throughout life, but the past two years have really brought the significance of positive health into focus. As we start 2022 – which is Classic FM’s 30th anniversary year – we’re excited to announce this new six-part series, which combines wellness and great classical music, and to welcome Dr Alex George to our stellar line-up. His wealth of experience, knowledge and understanding, coupled with his love of classical music, make him the perfect host of Inner Harmony and we know that our audience will enjoy and benefit from this very special series.”

Classic FM is available across the UK on 100–102 FM, DAB digital radio and TV, on Global Player on your smart speaker (“play Classic FM”), iOS or Android device and at classicfm.com.