Losing Mary Cliff's Music
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Regarding the Jan. 23 Style article "Radio Stations Harmonize on Classical Music; WGMS Ditches Its Old Format but Helps Orchestrate Its Revival on WETA":
A singer of vernacular American song, I moved to Washington because of its supportive environment for traditional folk and ethnic music, and I soon discovered that one reason this region had such a vibrant music scene was the presence of Mary Cliff's "Traditions" on WETA.
On the program, one can discover new and local musicians, explore unfamiliar material, and reflect on current topics within broader contexts of historical musical commentary and interpretation. Ms. Cliff offers something for everyone: singer-songwriters, blues, ballads, music from America's recent immigrant communities. Her announcements of upcoming concerts have helped "noncommercial" music to flourish and reach new audiences.
Folk and classical music have always been compatible, and many folk enthusiasts, including Ms. Cliff, are classical music listeners and supporters. Many of us were first exposed to folk music through classical-station hosts such as Robert J. Lurtsema, Bob Sherman and Oscar Brand. As surely as pop music traces its roots to folk forms, so does classical music. It is a terrible symptom of our times that niche marketing has so permeated the presentation of music that there is no room in the corners for Ms. Cliff's gentle and reflective voice.
Brickbats to WETA for letting this regional treasure go.
ELISABETH HIGGINS NULL
Silver Spring
