Ever since Radio Bronja was taken off the air, classical music fans have been lumbered with arguably the worst classical music station received in Malta.

Classic FM, according to its website, caters for the more popular taste with unsatisfactory results for those who appreciate a more sophisticated approach to classical music. The station sometimes boasts of attracting thousands new listeners but never reveals the number it loses. The reason is its constant repetition of popular pieces.

Another factor which renders Classic FM unsuitable for serious classical music lovers is its propensity for transcribing musical works. Transcription is simply the process of altering a score to a different musical format such as using a piano for a trumpet. Transcription is anathema to a purist, especially when nothing is sacred.

When it comes to the requests section of the programme, Maltese listeners get no joy. They are blocked from communicating with Classic FM. One therefore has to listen to easily satisfied listeners whom I have dubbed the ‘play me anything’ mob.

Occasionally, Classic FM advertises a very attractive prize but Maltese listeners are banned from taking part and e-mails are blocked.

Classic FM occupies air time and the benefit to Malta is dubious given the points raised above. A radio station must be accountable to its listeners and Classic FM has the freedom to broadcast what programme content it chooses without any feedback from Maltese listeners.

Should there not be a review of Classic FM’s position in the Maltese broadcasting media?

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