Boost for arts on radio

National Radio and Concert FM are revamping their schedules from next Tuesday with new shows extending arts and entertainment coverage.

What's Going On?, a live-to-air arts slot on National from 6 to 6.30 pm on weekdays, promises to keep listeners updated on film, theatre, ballet, music, literature, touring shows and exhibitions.

Upbeat!, a magazine show on Concert each weekday from 4 to 6 pm, will survey the national and international music scene and include interviews, concert reviews and previews.

National's Sunday lineup changes with the start on June 10 of Sunday Morning, a magazine show from 8 am to noon.

Features include Media Watch, an analysis of the role of the media in New Zealand; The Sunday Group, with a team of commentators reviewing public affairs of the week; and Ideas, an hour-long examination of contemporary concepts.

National also has two new half-hour current affairs shows on Sundays at 2.30 pm - Health Matters and Environment Matters. They will alternate for six-week runs, beginning with Health Matters.