Even when I was young I always had the dream of both programming and hosting a radio show. Although I loved television as a child I was more addicted to radio. I was given my first transistor radio in December 1962 and was immediately hooked. Perhaps because the little radio was “mine”. I could put the earplug in and be in my own world. My world at the time was WABC in New York. Yes, it was a top 40 station but a most important one featuring the voices of Dan Ingram, Cousin Brucie and company.
I became very much interested in classical music in 1966. There was always great music playing in my home when I was growing up. In addition, I was taken to the Young Peoples Concerts in New York featuring Leonard Bernstein who was probably the greatest inspiration to me in my love for music. In my opinion, there will never be anyone like him again. I consider myself lucky to have grown up during his time.
At the end of 1966 I started listening to Classical radio and buying classical records. My favorite station was WQXR, which I listened to whenever the radio went on. I will never forget the great voices of Bill Strauss, Melvin Elliott and company on that station.
I later got hooked on WNCN and also to the DeKoven concert featuring the wonderful baroque music aired by Seymour DeKoven, who to me is still the most unique and interesting classical DJ ever to hit the airwaves. He was very enthusiastic and quite outspoken. I owe my interest in baroque music to him.