Kicking off its 30th anniversary year, Classic FM has announced a new Sunday evening six-part series about health, wellbeing and classical music to be hosted by A&E doctor, UK youth mental health ambassador, and former Love Island contestant Dr Alex George.
Launching on 16 January at 9pm, each hour-long episode of Inner Harmony with Dr Alex George will be focused on a different topic related to health and wellness, combined with classical music.
Topics will cover supporting mental health, exercise and physical activity, the importance of a daily routine, and how to best relax and recharge. The show will also celebrate the lives of classical composers, many of whom experienced mental and physical health challenges.
George, usually known as ‘Dr Alex’, has recently started to learn the piano. He has previously spoken out about his own mental health challenges. Most recently, he initiated the #PostYourPill campaign on social media, which aimed to reduce the stigma around taking medication for mental health.
The first episode will focus on the importance of a healthy mind and will feature Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2, Ludovico Einaudi’s I Giorni and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, as well as explore the life of Tchaikovsky, who is known to have experienced low self-esteem and insecurities.
Dr Alex said: ‘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.
He added: ‘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!’
Classic FM’s managing editor Philip Noyce said: ‘Our mental and physical wellbeing is of utmost importance throughout life, but the past two years have really brought the significance of positive health into focus’
‘[Dr Alex George’s] 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.’
