CJLO Execs invited to Zurich for radio summit

Program Director Brian Joseph and Head Music Director Omar Husain are on their way to Zurich to represent CJLO at the first International Radio Festival, Sept. 5 to 11.

The only Canadian station chosen to attend, they’ll be showcasing their radio skills and knowledge to reps from more than 30 international stations during the forum to discuss the state of radio formats and programming around the world.

The invitation came as a bit of a surprise to the CJLO folk, who were contacted by festival organizers this summer. After confirming it was real, and while not given a formal reason, Joseph guesses the
station was recognized for its recent CMJ awards, substantial progress in programming quality, increased visibility through community presence and passion for the radio art form.

After flying out and checking into their hotel – which the festival is paying for – they’ll be among five keynote speakers during a panel discussion on the changing nature of the airwaves.

“I’m a true believer in the digital music market. I think the internet is a beautiful hub for discovering music,” says Joseph, stating the digital shift has borne a revitalized connectivity through live shows.

“Both listeners and musicians realize packaging isn’t everything anymore, and playing live is a way to create an new feeling.”

Other panelists in the discussion will include members of East Village Radio in New York City, Udande Shanghai, Radio One India, 102 FM Tel Aviv and Ghetto Radio in Nairobi.

In June, CJLO was awarded a grant from the Community Radio Fund of Canada (CRFC) to begin an after-school broadcasting program for local high school students. (See Journal, June 10, 2010.)

Joseph and Husain, who both host regular programs on CJLO, will also host a special show from the festival, Sept. 6 from noon to 2 p.m. Montreal time. Stream it at: internationalradiofestival.com.

CJLO was made to be heard. Have a listen:

Hooked on Sonics with Omar Husain, Aug. 12, 2010:

The weekly hip hop odyssey Phantastic Cypha from Doc Holiday (aka. Brian Joseph), Aug. 13, 2010:

In-studio recording sessions

Wintersleep, Feb. 25 2005:

"Home":

"Listen Listen":

"Weighty Ghost":

You Say Party! We Say Die!, Oct. 1 2005.

"He!She!You!Me!They!We!Us!OK!":

"The Gap":

For more about CJLO, visit their website.