Discovering Music - axed

[french frank]

The impression from inside the cellular structure of Radio 3, where no one knows anything about anything that doesn't concern them directly, is that, yes, Discovering Music is to be axed. Those 90 minutes, plus another 30 gained by chipping about with jazz programming, will provide the time for the new guest-presented Saturday Classics, 3pm-5pm. No response to my query on the New Season blog almost a fortnight ago, and no reply to my email direct to the programme. The BBC information line has no knowledge beyond the Liszt programme on the 14th.

Just in case links disappear:

This is the link for finding the DM archive which currently seems elusive on the R3 website.

This is the archive of John Arkell's listening notes.

[aka Calum Da Jazbo]

how dispiriting

[meles]

That is very sad, especially as it seems to fit the BBC's aims to educate and entertain. The programme has certainly introduced me to some fine music.

[MarkG]

Not sure how ending this programme would fit R3's aim of helping 'build appreciation of music particularly amongst people with little previous knowledge'.

[Chris Newman]

If true this seems an idiotic and potentially suicidal decision on the part of Radio Three. These programmes have been very enlightening to musical beginners and old hands. Those that have been available with optional TV format have been a valuable addition to the BBC's educational output.

[Pianorak]

Dispiriting indeed - but thanks, FF, for posting the link to the DM archives. Now firmly bookmarked!

[DracoM]

I know that several have been copied and used in A-level classes, so thanks R3 for far-sighted vision about exactly how to NOT get in touch with younger listeners.

[french frank]

I'd say that the change to a 'workshop' format a few years back, plus the focus on the A level syllabus, didn't improve the programme. Looking back over the old schedules I could see programmes like Anthony Payne discussing Elgar's Symphony No 2. If only that were available to listen to.

As for getting in touch with younger listeners, well, that seems to be what Gareth Malone's Saturday programmes will be for. Much as I admire him as a 'populariser' in the best sense, I think the intellectual contribution R3 makes takes another lurch downwards.

[johnb]

This is extremely bad news indeed.

Discovering Music is the only programme on R3 that attempts to go beyond superficialities.

[JoeG]

Oh no! I was a little afraid when it wasn't mentioned but felt sure they wouldn't ditch this high point of broadcasting - I have learned so much from this programme and will particularly miss Stephen Johnson's insight into works both familiar and unfamiliar.