Interesting thread.
Having worked for BBC Radio for nearly 30 years, I have seen a lot of changes with regards to their attitude regarding "people" music (Just made that up!)
Yes, of course there will always be un-informed people who churn out the same old jokes, but, I think that in the main, the music of our islands, is getting more coverage than ever before. As has already been mentioned, Radio 3 in particular, (Late Junction, Andy Kershaw) have shown that the best of "our" music, can sit quite happily alongside "Classical" or "Art" music, and is always treated with respect. I would rather Folk music was included within the mainstream of programming, but the music business being what it is, only a very few artists make the cross over. (Bob Harris championing Kate Rusby for instance).
Over on Radio 1, John Peel still includes traditional music, alongside Napalm Death, and Melt Banana!
Radio 4 uses all sorts of "Folkie" influences, Already noted, Tams, and Mike Watersons contribution to "The Charge of the Light Brigade", and their broadcast of the York mystery plays a few years ago.
I also remember Pyewackett working for several years for Schools Radio.
Of course we would all like more, but, as a public service broadcaster, the BBC will always fail to please all the people all the time.
Yes, we can all complain about the situation, but, have you listened to Commercial Radio recently? Jazz FM was originally set up for just that.....Jazz!!..But, didn't attract a big enough audience to satisfy the advertisers, so, listen to it now!
No, the BBC isn't perfect, but, in subtle ways, it doesn't do that badly in champioming the music of the people.
Personally, I prefer that our music should just sit alongside other forms, with no explanation, and no apology, and by and large, considering the size of the organisation, and the demands made on it, It could be a lot worse.
Rest assured, I'll continue to suggest to producers, that they might consider incidental music from The Posh Band!!!
Can I have my pay rise now??
Regards Ralphie
PS. For readers across the many Mudcat Ponds...Most BBC Services are available on the Web...Come and have a listen.