Radio Programmes

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 223, 17 June 1936, Page 13

Radio Programmes

Sir, —Noticing a letter in your paper this morning referring to broadcasting and classical music leads me to pen these few lines in support of your correspondent's views. My experience was somewhat similar to his, having risen but slowly to a more or less thorough understanding of the classics, per medium of the gramophone and radio. I still believe there are quite a number of people who desire the programme arrangements of the Broadcasting Board, iis at present constituted, to remain unaltered, but evidently the programme arrangers at the local station think otherwise, for gradually we are being denied our just rights, and much of a more “popular” variety is being substituted. Everywhere pandering' to popular taste is apparent. Surely, sir, if the board lays down a certain schedule of programmes we have every right to expect that it will be adhered to and.not ilouted.

Another thing, why, when we are led to expect a programme of classical symphonic music, should that music be supplied, or attempted, by the 2YA Orchestra, a band quite incapable of dealing with such works? I trust that these are matters that will be dealt with by the new authorities.—l am, etc., LOVER OF MUSIC. Upper Hutt, June 16.

Sir, —In reply to ‘‘Listener-In,” radio owners do pay several thousand pounds per year for radio programmes, but if the officials consulted every individual, as to his desires, they would soon be in the same position as "the man, the boy, and the donkey,” in, that old proverb. Look at the service we have for our fee, and we are to receive still more in the near future! Personally, I can always find something suitable at one station or another, and there are the thousands of ns (whom I understand constitute the greater majority of listeners) who receive so much enjoyment from the. Parliamentary debates. This is, I believe, the most popular part of radio programmes. It only takes a person with very ordinary intelligence to understand them, Why only four broadcasting stations? I think more like twenty to twenty-four arc needed. - My motto is: ‘‘Take the best value you can get. for your money,” and keep on smiling. Broadcasting under State control should be a boon to us all. —•I am. etc.. LISTENER. Otaki, Juno I'l.