Arthur would have scoffed at that title. Icon. He wasn’t much for titles, mantles, or even accolades. Too “effete”. He hated pomp or ceremony. Loathed pretension. Back in the late 90’s, the title “Chief Announcer” was suggested to Arthur at Minnesota Public Radio, and he smiled deliciously. That smile spoke a thousand words and you could hear it on the radio. Arthur had been the godfather, mentor, muse, and yes, chief for almost 40 years, not just at MPR, but to countless other broadcasters, and especially his audience. An official title was completely unnecessary.
Obituaries
Tragedy in Seattle: George Shangrow
Saturday afternoon, July 31, former KING-FM radio host and beloved Seattle conductor George Shangrow was killed in an automobile crash on his way to give a pre-concert lecture in Methow Valley. The accident occurred during a thunderstorm when a 16 year old boy driving in the opposite direction crossed the centerline and hit Shangrow’s vehicle head-on. Shangrow was a popular lecturer, performer (harpsichord), and conductor in Seattle. His radio program “Live by George” on KING-FM had a huge following before he was laid off in a controversial firing some years ago. Shangrow directed Orchestra Seattle and the Seattle … Continue Reading
Lois Bent
Very sad news — Lois Bent of Yellowstone Public Radio passed away yesterday after an 18-month battle with cancer. Here’s a brief article from the Billings Gazette. Is there anyone in classical radio who didn’t know Lois Bent? Lois was always interested in the ideas of others and the new programming they came up with, especially anything choral. She showed up at every radio meeting and made it a point to meet the newbies and greet her old friends. She was delighted about everything in our crazy business. I know you all have stories to … Continue Reading
Peter Goldsmith
Gabe Di Maio, Program Director of WNED in Buffalo reports the passing of beloved broadcaster and friend to many of us, Peter Goldsmith. It is with great sadness that I must report that Peter Goldsmith, the first Program Director of Classical 94.5 WNED, passed away suddenly on Tuesday night. As details of funeral arrangements become available, I will let you know. Gabriel S. DiMaio, Program Director, Classical 94.5 WNED FM, Buffalo