-Not only are folk programs failing but judging from reports on bbc folk programs that remain folk clubs too are closing down.
-yes interaction via facebook with listeners is a very very good strategy it puts viewers live in the studio
it is well worth the effort to keep the facebook page open and give it a comment or two when recordings are playing.

The important thing about facebook page is not the number of likes or friends but the number you get to comment on a regular basis. A few ways to encourage more to contribute would be a facebook quiz during the show, maybe information there that is not found elsewhere on radio web pages and play lists. Asking facebook friends to post their requests is also good.

Another strategy is to get a friend from the facebook page to take a role in posting information during the program on guests or tracks played. They could be ready with it and send it in for the presenter.
Often one has to wait for the play list for the web pages of those who perform on the show live. Spreading the work this way would allow the presenter to make the facebook page quite lively.

it is also important that people listening have many reasons for doing so. A program running along without variety in a few directions will not be so popular.

it is important to moderate the dimensions as well. One folk presenter in the DC area goes on and on and on with calendar items so much so that you can hardly find the music. while i think some event listing is important this is better accomplished on a web page or play list or facebook.

I also find that some presenters drone on with interviews taking up entire shows. these are best broken into short sound bites and broadcast over several programmes.

I do like background information on the songs but not too long after the song has been played. when a number of songs are played in a row one can not relate the background to the song.

again background information on facebook would keep the facebook experience lively.

Another problem is actually playing requests. One should not have to wait forever and a day to have the request played. yes does often take a while to track down recordings.

another important thing is to make sure that local grass roots talent is featured not just the big star who is promoting a concert tour or recording.

Festival season is also messy with this sort of promotion. i find that the summer programs are dominated by festival line ups and promoters. the same people on several programs. overkill. then you find that the tickets are sold out anyway.....so perhaps some of the big festivals dont need all that much coveraage all the time.

Is the recording on i tunes- I use i tunes a lot so it is helpful to know that a song is there.....one could go on and on it seems i have.

Conrad