Bill Richardson appointed host of CBC Radio classical and opera programs

Fans of Bill Richardson, who is also a Straight contributor, will be happy to know that he's been appointed the host of CBC Radio 2's forthcoming classical performance show, which is currently being developed, as well as Sunday Afternoon at the Opera.

Here are the details straight from the CBC:

CBC Radio today announced that award-winning broadcaster, journalist and author Bill Richardson will host CBC Radio 2’s flagship classical performance show, currently in development, as well as the soon-to-be redesigned Saturday Afternoon at the Opera. The new programs will air weekend afternoons, beginning in the fall.

“We are delighted to welcome Bill back to a dedicated place on CBC Radio,” said Jennifer McGuire, executive director of programming, CBC Radio. “Bill’s talent as a host, and his breadth of experience in music and the performing arts, will be a definite asset in connecting these two important programs with audiences.”

Since 1984, Richardson has contributed to the distinct sound of CBC Radio. He began with CBC Radio, developing training materials on “how not to write for Radio.” He quickly moved into a long and distinguished association with Vicki Gabereau on her afternoon program. From there, Richardson began his hosting responsibilities on programs including Crosswords, As You Like It, Richardson’s Roundup, Bunny Watson, Ten Times Table and Canada Reads.

Additionally, Richardson has collaborated, as a lyricist, with composers Rodney Sharman and Cameron Wilson. He has worked as a writer/narrator with Quartetto Gelato, the Vancouver Summer Chamber Music Festival, Stratford Summer Music and the CBC Radio Orchestra.

Richardson’s books include the Bachelor Brothers Bed & Breakfast, Waiting for Gertrude, After Hamelin and, most recently, a picture book for kids called The Aunts Come Marching.

The addition and redesign of these two programs are part of the next phase in the re-development of CBC Radio 2. In March, three new programs were added to the schedule: Tonic, Canada Live and The Signal. More information on these programs can be found at www.radio2.cbc.ca