Plans have been unveiled for specialist music programmes on Radio 2 this year, beginning with a focus on folk music.
The new Folk Show began earlier this month, and will feature live folk acts in the run up to the Folk Awards on 30th January. Future shows will feature Richard Thompson, Heidi Talbot and Jefferson Hamer. The Folk Awards will be hosted by Mark Radcliffe live on the station, as well as the red-button on BBC TV.
Radio 2’s dedication to specialist music is one of the things that makes it stand out from other stations. We have long championed a wide range of genres and this enriched programming will increase the impact of specialist music on the station, bring it to a wider audience and embed it within the heart of the schedule.Bob Shennan , Controller, Radio 2 and 6 Music
In May the station will be live from Cheltenham Jazz Festival, with Jamie Cullum presenting a special programme which looks at the “different roles jazz has taken within film”.
Country and blues music will also receive particular attention later in the year with live music and documentary specials.