Responding to pressure from a dozen American symphony orchestras and a group of internationally celebrated virtuosos, the FCC is setting aside part of the 20 metre band to let licensed amateur radio operators play their violins, flutes, bassoons and other instruments -- or to sing opera. In fact, opera-singing hams in search of DX contacts will be encouraged call Q-R-Zed by singing compositions by Mozart, Verdi or Strauss.

To prepare for these repurposed frequencies, the FCC will now require music recitals to be part of the VE sessions. After completing the written part of the test, each candidate must present a 10-minute performance on the instrument of their choice - or they may sing. Starting in June, all FCC license-preparation classes will include six months of music lessons. Knowing your harmonics is, after all, so very important, mes amis.

Ah, but NO drummers are welcome on this new part of 20-metres. Percussion instruments will be sent to the CW portion!!!

Already there has been protest from some amateur radio clubs around the US who are asking why violinists and opera singers are being allowed on 20 metres but no rock 'n rollers, no banjo players and not even a single hip-hop artist. The FCC has taken up the question and is reportedly considering part of the 2 metre band next.....or perhaps 7200.

This is Pierre Pullinmyleg with a song in my heart -- and on the radio too.