We are expected to write a page in the exam about our case study in answer to question 3:
Explain how and why producers of radio programmes target different audiences. Refer to the Radio 1 Live Lounge to support your answer.
Today in class we go through the exam question set in the specimen paper along with the model answers supplied to us by the exam board.
We listen to those Radio 1 Live Lounge radio programmes that are available online.
We learn about:
- BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge's 'unique acoustic performances from a range of established and breakthrough artists'
- The audience pleasures of Live Lounge :
the fact that the musicians perform live with all the spontaneity and
sense of individual authenticity that brings; the way in which they play
both their own work and 'covers' of other artists' work. Live Lounge offers a genuine sense of being in an intimate club as invited guests. Open the link:
"Watch live sessions and unique covers from the biggest artists in the world - direct from the Radio 1 studios to your barely-believing eyes and ears." - Close-ups of artists' faces and ECUs of them playing add a sense of connection and authentication for audiences.
- Past broadcasts of Live Lounge
can be viewed both from the BBC website and on YouTube as well as
listened to at the time of broadcasting. This targets audiences who
cannot listen live, such as shift workers, office workers, busy parents,
people on holiday. The visuals of the studio and performers also
enhance the quality of authenticity and intimacy as we are invited into
the studio to see for ourselves.
- Live Lounge Month in December 2017 finished with a live studio audience enjoying a performance of Sam Smith
- An older demographic is targeted Throwback Thursdays
- Younger presenters are used to engage younger audiences such as Clara Amfo in the mid-morning slot
- In the Examiner's mark scheme for this question, the following points are also raised:
- What is PSB broadcasting? The BBC remit to entertain, to educate, to inform
- ( I would add) How the BBC is committed to diversity such as ethnic diversity, gender equality
- How local radio targets specific specialized audiences
- or mass audiences
- or specialized audiences on a national scale
- while local radio offers local news, weather, traffic reports and sports coverage
- How national radio may offer traffic reports
