RADIO PMN: A Worthwhile Experiment?
To sustain an organization committed to social justice and peace through the voices and art of many different peoples is no easy task. Even if there is agreement regarding the definition of “social justice”, it is actually hard to generate comparable enthusiasm for all genres of music, for example, in an organization founded by and rooted in the Folk music tradition as practiced by a predominantly white and now older segment of the organization.
As the Peoples Music Network for Songs of Freedom and Struggle celebrates its 50th Anniversary Year, we are looking to create and strengthen tools that bring our members together artistically so that we can be even stronger and supportive of each other socio-politically.
One tool that has been suggested is the creation of an internet-based “radio station” owned and controlled by PMN as much as possible. Such entities are now quite prolific. Why? First, the operating costs, whatever they are, are far less than those of a “real” radio station. Second, the technical demands, however sophisticated they may seem, are less onerous than those of a “real” radio station. Third, the programming challenges, however real they may be, are far less than those faced by broadcast radio stations. And fourth, the general administrative headaches confronting management are far fewer in number than those facing broadcast radio.
In this internet and app age, PMN members representing many musical genres can support each other’s work and also enjoy more than “15 minutes of fame” with new audiences. The Strategic Plan work that has started is emphasizing the need for new and creative approaches to building PMN’s appeal and the recruitment and retention of members.
Today, I am asking you to join me for an introductory meeting to discuss a “vision” for RADIO PMN – or whatever name we give it. Your voice will add value to our work. The concept has not yet been approved by the Steering Committee, because no concrete proposal has yet been made. What has been approved are meetings to explore the idea and fashion a more concrete proposal. Will you join me?
Our first ZOOM meeting will be on Tuesday, November 10th. If you are interested in being part of this discussion, please contact me immediately at sc-owens@peoplesmusic.org and let me know the best time for you to meet on that day.
Here are some questions to think about. If you have specific knowledge about any of these issues and are willing to take some time to write down your thoughts for sharing, that would be appreciated. Otherwise, feel free to come as you are!
1. What do you believe that PMN, as an organization, should be attempting to achieve by establishing an internet radio station? How do you see the station helping to achieve those goals?
2. What do you think are essential components of an internet radio station that would contribute to attracting listeners? What should be avoided by a project like this one?
3. Do you have some thoughts regarding specific programming? (Don’t hesitate to put forward concepts and/or individual names, etc.)
4. Internet radio can utilize either live or pre-recorded programs or a hybrid of the two. What would your preference be – and why? (Please assume that it will take at least six months to fully manifest the station.)
5. Are you interested in being involved with the operation of this station? If so, how many hours per week would you consider to be a reasonable contribution of your time? Are there specific tasks or activities that you would prefer to be involved with?
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