Zur Situation der Big-Band
in den ARD-Anstalten, dargestellt am Beispiel des NDR
The quality and content of the orchestra productions are determined by the orchestra musicians, the music editors are responsible for the production itself, and program editors responsible for planning the radio program. Problems are not a result of the alleged advanced age of the musicians, but the result of the enormous variety of musical material they must play. This problem can be resolved by engaging a few musicians specialized in playing a specific style for the given occasion, thereby increasing the orchestra's quality and musical scope. A preliminary condition which must be met in solving the organisational difficulties is to bring the now separate positions of musical and program editing, which directly influence one another, under joint supervision. This solution has successfully been applied in the NDR's big band music programming for a number of years.
The radio stations have an obligation to provide cultural programs, in which can be done with the assistance of the big bands. The broadcasting should incorporate many sided programs (also in live concert programs) which cover the public's broad range of musical tastes and interests. The band should also feature new music talents, soloists, composers, and arrangers.