NEWS FROM THE ZB STATIONS

New Zealand Listener, Volume 2, Issue 29, 12 January 1940, Page 46

NEWS FROM THE ZB STATIONS

HOSE firm favourites with ZB listeners, the "Easy Aces," recently celebrated the completion of nine consecutive years of "big time" broadcasting in America by signing another two-year contract with their sponsors. Nice going! But they are an easy-going couple, and refuse to make a fuss over a little thing like a ninth anniversary. As Mr. Ace (formerly a dramatic critic and newspaper columnist) nonchalantly put it, "It’s nothing to get excited over." Advised recently of the popularity of their programme in New Zealand, the "Easy Aces" expressed a desire to visit us "later on." He Knows the Answers In this present world of " Quiz, ~. it's a lucky man who knows all the answers! Meaning, of course, Teddy Grundy, who opens 3ZB’s Question Box every Tuesday at 430 p.m. This session is very popular and a source of all kinds of knowledge to listeners. Hawaiian Music Music from the islands has a big place in the affections of listeners, and 3ZB’s session of "Hawaiian Reflections," presented each Wednesday morning, has been consistently favoured. Through this session the Hawaiian orchestras have become well-known. to many people who have liked this. kind of music without hitherto having had a regular programme of it. Magic in the Air . Bryan, of 2ZB’s Young New Zealand Radio Journal, is preparing new features for the coming year. So far he is keeping them as a surprise, but he did mention one. It has something to do with magic, and should be most unusual and full of interest. Christmas at 3ZB Christmas time was celebrated well and truly in the Children’s Session at 3ZB. The studio was packed with little folk who had performed during the year, all,anxious to show just how well they could sing or play. The star items were presented by the Musical Army Harmonica Section, composed of about 70 little performers. Their programme was a real Christmas treat of carols. Another attraction in the session was the presence of all those who help the

Children’s Session to be the happy session it is. "Storyman" brought his ‘cello, "* Wise Owl" came with a "Tu whit tu whoo," and ate up all the riddles he was given, " Garden Man" was far away, but he sent his message of good cheer. ‘" Aunt. Maisie" made Christmassy music, and the whole party sang lustily. Altogether it was a jolly party. " Soap-Box Derby " It is proposed to hold the ‘ SoapBox Derby" late in January at 1ZB, and already a number of boys are getting their vehicles ready for the event. Interest is growing, and the indications

are that the contest will be great fun. This idea has nothing to do with "Wings," but as he is the authority on all kinds of building, he is being asked to help wtih special designs. "Frank" of the Junior Sports Review, who put forward the idea, is very keen, and he has worked out complete plans to ensure the event being a great success. "Gran " Visits 2ZB A recent welcome visitor to the studio of 2ZB was "Gran," of Auckland. When she broadcast in the afternoon session with "Tony," many listeners rang to say

how enjoyable her brief talk had been. For "Gran," besides having many friends in all parts of the country, is one of those lovable old ladies who carry with them wherever they go ahomely philosophy of sineere goodwill | and friendliness that simply cannot be denied. "Gran" is Scottish, and forth- | right. In the fashion of her country folk, she has a habit of pithy expression, of simplicity and immediate understanding which warms the heart. To all the members of all the stations of the Commercial Broadcasting Service she is. known as "Gran." Young and old are delighted to meet her and talk with her, although not half of them know. her real name, "Songs of the Islands" A very popular session with 4ZB listeners is Airini's "Songs of the Islands" session which is on the air every Sunday at 7.30 p.m. Against a background of Island and Maoris music, | Airini narrates stories and legends of the Maori and other Polynesian peoples, describing the customs that lie behind the familiar folk songs of these peoples. | Visit to Playland The two ZB "Peters"’-Hutt and Whitchurch — together with Bryan. O'Brien did the rounds of Exhibition’s Playland with "Mac" recently. To say that a " good time was had by all 2 would be putting it mildly. They made special friends with the Fat Lady, the 8ft. 6in. Giant and the Pygmies! Said Peter. Hutt, on seeing the Laughing Sailor above the entrance to Crazy House, "Why, there’s Jerry!" Macs in Dunedin In a Scottish city like Dunedin, it’s only fitting that 4ZB should have a flock of "Macs." Look at themAnnouncers Bernie McConnell, Alex. McDowell, Brian McCawe, Bruce McDonald, of the Programme Department, and Jessie McLennan, 4ZB’s Shopping Reporter! The Four Aces On a recent Sunday members of the staff of 2ZA presented a unique performance, entitled "Rehearsal with the Four Aces." It included the Station Director, John Brown, the announcer, Rex Walden, Len Wood, salesmen, and

the pianist, George Dawson. The programme included humorous items, trios, duets and solos by all members of the party, and lasted the full thirty minutes. All of these artists at various times have put on their own sessions, and as a combination, if one is to judge by telephone rings and letters, they were enjoyed by a large number of listeners. There was not much time for rehearsal, as it was Christmas Week, and everyone was busy; but after this initial broadcast, listeners can be assured that the Four Aces will be back in front of the microphone again early in the New Year.

THIS 18 THE COMMERCIAL BROADCASTING SERVICE