Although definitely not perfect, my group’s demo stands as a great basis to construct, learn, hone in on and then perfect our live broadcast skills. In terms of content, we tried our best to stick strictly to the RWAV format, using three pre-recorded pieces (radio documentaries from myself and Jack, and the audio off a video interview from Ed), music and general presenter commentary to keep the program flowing. Our run sheet (live edited version) was based off an extremely precise and clear template from Ed, which definitely helped us in running the show somewhat smoothly.
What went well:
Flow.
Albeit a few bumps, the show ran relatively fluidly from segment to segment, and didn’t show many signs of awkwardness or when switching between content, in this case, from music to a package and back again, with the inclusion of stings and promos. The timing and order of packages in relation to music and the odd bit from novation worked out well and was the ultimate reason the show had such a smooth flow. This also came down to the great run sheet, which I now understand the true importance of.
Timing.
The show came in at an almost perfect 59 minutes – score!
What could be improved on:
Preparedness.
We didn’t have any music prepared, so we just took two CDs from the studio and alternated between the two. We did this so our panel operator, Jack, didn’t have to keep switching between CDs throughout the recording – this wasn’t something he’ll be doing in our actual broadcast, as we plan on burning two CDs with the set tracks for the show, so we didn’t see it necessary to add an unnecessary complication for the sake of the demo. Unfortunately, this also meant that Ed and I didn’t know the artists well and therefor didn’t have much to say about them, leaving us to fumble about with some quick facts off the internet. This is definitely something that will not be present in our live broadcast.
Panel Operation.
Disclaimer: it was Jack’s first time panel operating and he did an excellent job considering.
There are brief moments of silence due to microphones not being turned on and a lack of familiarity with the songs played, as well noticeable level issues sprinkled throughout the demo. This ultimately comes down to technical fluency and capabilities, which will no doubt be a lot sharper come the live program.
Presentation.
Personally, I didn’t feel as though I performed at my best, as I was audibly uncertain as arms were flying and pages were loading in the studio. This is definitely something that would be eliminated with appropriate preparation. I also feel as though we did not plug 3RRR or RWAV nearly enough, and this is definitely something that will be integrated into future projects. Ed and I worked really well together as cohosts, and I feel as though this relationship will improve even more so once we’re comfortable and prepared in the total operations.
Lessons:
1. When it comes to RWAV, content is king. If we nail our content (interviews, packages, music) and know it back to front, there’s no reason our show won’t be of the highest quality.
2. Content may be King, but run sheets are God.
3. Perfect paneling portrays professionalism. If transitions between various types of content are seamless, the program will be technically faultless and of the ideal quality.
***Please see our Soundcloud comments for precise annotations of particular moments and mishaps***
