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Heritage committee to hold hearings into CBC Radio 2 changes

10.05.2008 17:00 Arts - Source: cbc.ca

The House of Commons standing committee on Canadian heritage will be holding hearings on proposed changes to CBC Radio 2.

Beginning Labour Day, Radio 2 will offer what the CBC describes as "a broader, richer spectrum of music," with less classical and more diverse music.

CBC also has decided to disband the CBC Radio Orchestra, the last radio orchestra in existence in North America, to free up the funding for projects.

Committee member and NDP heritage critic Bill Siksay brought forward the motion to hold hearings.

"I'm concerned that the commitment to classical music in Canada is a key part of the Canadian culture. CBC Radio 2 has been a key player in classical music," Siksay told CBC News.

"And I'm also concerned as a member of Parliament for West Vancouver about the disbanding of the CBC Radio Orchestra, which might be the only national cultural institution based in Vancouver.… I think it's a significant national institution and one that we shouldn't give up lightly. "

The committee voted unanimously to examine CBC's decision to disband the CBC Radio Orchestra, its commitment to classical music and the changes to CBC Radio 2.

There has been widespread concern over the proposed changes among CBC Radio 2 fans and some have begun an internet campaign to oppose any reduction in classical music played by the public broadcaster. There have also been public protests.

Siksay said he hopes the hearings will give Canadians a chance to express their concerns.

The heritage committee is considering whether to schedule some hearings in Vancouver, home of the CBC Radio Orchestra.

The CBC has not yet announced specific programs that will be heard on Radio 2 after Labour Day.

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Cross-Canada protests decry CBC Radio changes, orchestra's end CBC Radio Orchestra to disband after 70 years CBC Radio Two to revamp daytime programming

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