From the 1950s onwards, Amis became a regular contributor to BBC Radio's music output, and worked on BBC Television from 1961, producing and presenting documentaries, and introducing the BBC2 magazine programme Music Now.
As a broadcaster, he is probably best known for his appearances as a team member from 1974 to 1994, on the panel show, My Music, both on Radio 4 World service and Transcription service to English speaking countries world wide (never off the air in Australia). His own radio show Talking about Music on Radio 3 interviewed countless celebrated musicians.
The programme on 3 July will include interviews with Benjamin Britten, Elisabeth Schwauzkopf, Irmgard Seerfried, Myra Hess, Percy Grainger, Leopold Stokowski, Mario Giulini and with Isaac Stern, Pinchas Zuckermann and Charles Beare trying (& failing) to tell the difference between a Strad, a Del Jesu, a Vuillaume and a brand new 1985 fiddle. Many other goodies including Earl Wild improvising on a Bach theme in the style of Poulenc.
3 comments:
Fascinating and delightful evening. The duet with Donald Swann was most moving - and how extraordinary, Percy Grainger (whose voice I have never heard before) without the slightest trace of an Australian, or even an American, accent! It all reminded me of the marvellous Third Programme and Radio 3 I grew up with (most if it's not like that nowadays, I'm afraid). Thanks for all the great work you have done over the years!
It was splendid to hear your contributions to education and entertainment being celebrated. As your blog makes clear you are still involved in current music making.Congratulations on using your communicative flair to such good effect. Thank you.
A splendid evening's entertainment - and, incidentally, a masterclass in interviewing (some of R3's current presenters, please take note!).
Loved the wit and, of course, the many enlightening anecdotes and insights.
Congratulations on your forthcoming wedding, Dr A, and may Bastard's HQ long continue to regard you indulgently.
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