Radio Programmes

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 122, 16 February 1935, Page 9

Radio Programmes

Sir, —There have been many criticisms launched lately at the programmes given over the air by 2YA. It would appear from these criticisms that a large majority of listeners endure much mental agonj’ while 2YA is endeavouring to please all listeners. Surely these dissatisfied listeners must realise that it is quite impossible for any broadcasting station to put on a programme which will appeal to all listeners tit one and the same time.

My circumstances have been such that during the past year I have been able to listen to every programme given by 2YA during the day and the evening. I consider, taking the programmes as a whole, that they have been excellent. It' seems to me that they must at different times have appealed to all listeners. A great number of the programmes have not, of course, appealed to me. which is as it should be, for it shows that there is much variety in the broadcasts in the station’s endeavour to please all listeners, but, as I said before, not to appeal to all listeners at the same time.

The programme last night was an example of the excellent “balance” maintained by 2YA. For the first hour of the evening programme some of Beethoven's music was to be broadcast, and during the second hour listeners would hear some of the ever-popular Gilbert and Sullivan operas. This programme would surely have had a very great appreciative audience. We have a great deal to thank the Broadcasting Board for in procuring the right to relay these operas. There has been much controversy over the question of fostering “local talent.” It would be all very well if the local “talent” would broadcast. . Judging from some of the items that used to be broadcast, the performers may have been local but certainly not talented. I am sure there are very many listeners who sincerely hope that 2YA will continue as it is doing at present, giving its recorded programmes, enabling everyone to hear the world’s greatest music performed by the world’s most brilliant artiste and orchestras.—l am. etc..

LISTENER. Wellington, February 14.