I came across Mel Hill (pictured right) quite by chance. I recently bought a computer, and being a Jazz fan was delighted to discover there were quite a few programmes on the BBC Radio network I could listen to, as and when I wanted.
I spent the early days listening to the likes of Humphrey Lyttelton and other Jazz Record Request programmes, but it was some time before I noticed the Mel Hill Show, as it was right at the bottom of the list. One auspicious day I clicked on Mel’s show and got transferred to Radio Stoke - not a station I am familiar with.
I listened to the Gerry Mulligan musical introduction, followed by the mellifluous tones of Mr Hill - and was hooked! Here was a programme with a difference. Mel's the man As a broadcaster...
Listening mostly to people who take a rather brisk and autonomous approach to presenting with one eye on the clock, I was pleased to discover and enjoy Mel’s laid back, friendly and measured approach to jazz.
I find him to be a natural broadcaster with an easy, warm and interesting voice and a manner akin to that of a favourite uncle with a great sense of humour talking to a small and devoted audience of nephews and nieces. As an expert...
His knowledge of jazz and its history is formidable, and even after all these years of being immersed in the music I love, I find - again and again - Mel will come up with a rare nugget of information or an eloquent dissertation on a particular track or subject, that continues to surprise and delight me.
He is also a working jazz musician and that can only help. Show The structure of each show is well planned; and I would guess Mel spends a lot of time with his producer honing each programme as to content and balance; a juggling act he performs superbly each week, so much so that you could be fooled into thinking he makes it up as he goes along! Now that is clever.
I also find the Message Board (with its ability to communicate with Mel direct, with a question or request), an inspired idea - and it is amazing how many people listen in and contribute to the show from places as unlikely as Chile and Peru!
I’ve even made a few contributions myself - all the way from Hounslow (South England!). Each week I look forward with anticipation to reading the current track list to see what delights are in store.
I have yet to be disappointed in Mel’s choices and find myself appreciating tracks I wouldn’t normally seek out.
Discovering the Mel Hill Show has broadened my jazz education considerably. Thank you Teacher! More power to Mel | "Mel will come up with a rare nugget of information or an eloquent dissertation on a particular track or subject, that surprises and delights" | | Paul |
Mel Hill performs a little miracle each week in bringing together a worldwide audience of devoted fans whose only aim is to listen to and enjoy his choice of Jazz music. Not a bad thing in the world we live in.
It’s like having one big happy family that continues to increase by leaps and bounds week by week in celebration of the music. Mel is wise, self deprecating and humble. He is the common man. His occasional bumbling mistakes show he is human and vulnerable, but nevertheless he always includes the listener in the joke. Jazz music surmounts all barriers, all classes, and all creeds.
As a contribution to a better understanding between fellow human beings right across the world, I think Mel Hill is doing a great job.
Long may he continue to do so.
Paul Sherlock
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