Masters of Melody

British Radio Studio Orchestras, Bands and Ensembles from the '30s to the '60s

I'm Brian Reynolds and I would like to welcome you to 'Masters of Melody' - an antidote to the rock and pop scene which has virtually removed melodic music from the airwaves. The light orchestras and dance bands of yesteryear are missed by many people. As an amateur musician I have composed a number of light pieces which used to be broadcast by orchestras and military bands and possess a substantial collection of vintage music broadcasts. I have also undertaken extensive research at the BBC Written Archives and elsewhere.  

In these pages you will be able to recapture memories of many vintage programmes, some of which have disappeared into the mists of time. You will also be able to read about the lives and careers of some of the 'men behind the music'. Although additions will be made from time to time, the emphasis will be on poorly documented artists who were prolific broadcasters as opposed to major recording artists such as Mantovani about whom much written material exists.

Over the years I have co-presented a number of light music programmes with Howard Leader. These can be heard here:
The Howard Leader Show

The website is still under construction, so expect more information to be added as time permits.

As You Were
Brass and Strings
Bright and Early
Continental Serenade
Grand Hotel
Home to Music
Just William
Kings of the Keyboard
Listen to the Band
Make Way for Music
Marching and Waltzing
Melody Hour
Melody Mixture
Melody on the Move
Morning Music
Music Box
Music in the Peter Yorke Manner
Music on the Move
Music While You Work
 On The Lighter Side
Piano Playtime
Show Band Show
Swingsong
Those were the Days