Leora Zeitlin, long-time classical music host at KRWG-FM, was nationally recognized recently for her interviews with musicians on her program, “Intermezzo.” The National Federation of Press Women awarded her “First Place in Radio/Television Interviews” in its annual communications contest. Zeitlin received the award at the NFPW’s national conference on September 6, in Greenville, South Carolina.
The interview that advanced to first place was with Dr. William Clark, conductor of the Mesilla Valley Concert Band and retired director of bands and chair of the music department at New Mexico State University. In “A Conductor Reflects: A conversation with Dr. William Clark,” the popular band director discusses the music of several composers and the skills required in conducting a large wind ensemble.
“I am particularly delighted that the winning interview was with Dr. Clark,” said Zeitlin upon returning from South Carolina. “He has been an inspiration to untold numbers of students, musicians and audience members who have worked with him and heard him over the decades both in Las Cruces and throughout the region. He conveys his love of music and his love of people in everything he does, and all of us who know him treasure him.”
Zeitlin also won first prize for radio interviews at the state level, in the 2014 contest organized by the New Mexico Press Women. First place state winners in all categories were then entered to the national competition.