The BBC has today unveiled one of the more unusual celebratory events for Beethoven’s anniversary year – and all for a good cause. As part of Sports Relief, the charity which raises money for vulnerable people worldwide, people are being invited to run 5K in the time it takes the BBC Philharmonic to give a live performance of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

Called ‘Beat Beethoven’, the main event will take place around Salford’s MediaCityUK on March 13, and be broadcast live on BBC Radio 3, though anyone will be able to download a free track of the symphony from BBC Sounds, the broadcaster’s radio app, and take part from elsewhere. The initiative was unveiled today by James Purnell, Director of BBC Radio and Education, in a speech to the Association of British Orchestras. Visit Sports Relief and click on 'Beat Beethoven' for more information.

Exactly what the time runners will have to beat though, will depend entirely on the interpretation (and generosity) of Ben Gernon, who will be conducting the performance.

To help you train, here are three superb recommendations of recordings of the work, offering listeners a variety of interpretative styles … and times to aim for.

The modern choice: Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique / Sir John Eliot Gardiner (Soli Deo Gloria) – 33’15”

The classic choice: Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra / Carlos Kleiber (DG) - 33’37”

The hidden gem: New York Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra / Arturo Toscanini (Naxos) - 30’41”

Click here to learn more about these recordings – and to listen to them through Apple Music.

Gramophone has also just published a special anniversary magazine called ‘Gramophone Presents … Beethoven’, drawing on some of the most fascinating and significant articles and reviews about the composer and his music from across the 97-year history of the magazine. Find out more.