THE BEST CLASSICAL MUSIC ANNOUNCER IN THE U.S. - ROSIE STEVENSON OF KBYU-FM

Notwithstanding my frequent criticisms of the quality of announcing on KBYU-FM, the sole classical music station in Utah, I want to point out that KBYU has someone I think is the best classical announcer in the whole country.

There are many good announcers of classical music, but only a few great ones.  Kerry Frumkin and Carl Grapentine of WFMT-FM broadcasting out of Chicago come to mind.

Rosie Stevenson of KBYU is clearly an announcer who could not only stand toe to toe with the great ones but surpass them in her knowledge, the insights she offers, the experiences she has had, her method of on-air presentation and her careful diction.

Why do I say this?  Rosie has prodigious knowledge of contemporary composers and artists.  She has met many and undoubtedly has many friends in this group.

Her manner on air is one that makes the listener feel privileged listening to the music she serves up and privileged to be sharing the emotional impact of the piece with her.  Privileged also to hear her insightful comments and to share her interesting observations on classical music.

Rosie's whole method of on-air presentation is measured and thoughtful.  One need never be afraid that she will engage in banalities or pass-the-time badinage. Rosie never rushes, takes her time, as befitting a great classical music announcer.

Her diction is impeccable.  "Twenty" comes out "twenty," not "twenny," as you hear elsewhere.  And not "Meh-da" for "Zubin Mehta," or "Rigoleddo" for "Rigoletto."

For all of the above reasons and many more, I consider Rosie Stevenson to be the best classical music announcer in the U.S. today.