From the airwaves to the internet: WMUW brings the latest student-led programming to you
Offering an eclectic mix of music from local and well-known artists, as well as interviews and commentary from a variety of hosts, WMUW “The Edge”, Mississippi University for Women’s radio station, has been entertaining The W community both on and off campus for almost 45 years.
While it has been faithfully broadcasting on terrestrial radio at 88.5 FM, WMUW was the first college station in Mississippi to stream its programming live.
Now, WMUW is gearing up for a return to the internet realm with an all-new streaming option that will open the station to anyone with an internet connection.
“We have retired our ‘old’ RealPlayer online streamer and are currently beta testing an all-new online streaming program,” said Eric Harlan, instructor of communication and longtime general manager and chief engineer for WMUW. “Once we get the details worked out, you will be able to stream WMUW live from anywhere that offers Internet access on any device.”
While there is no set date for the roll out of the new stream, Harlan said it is coming “soon” and to be on the lookout for updates.
WMUW offers students, faculty, staff and alumni of The W the opportunity to host their own show. There is no set format, and instead hosts choose what they want their show to be.
For students, this can be a valuable learning experience that gives them a leg up in the broadcasting world post-graduation.
“Having a student radio station, first and foremost, is an outstanding laboratory for students who might want a career in broadcasting to actually get on the air and develop their style. They then graduate with real world experience!” Harlan said. “Radio is radio is radio — once you get used to working with the equipment, and developing a show and keeping that show going, the music you play isn’t important. The technique is the same whether you’re playing Top-40, Rock or Country — you’re doing the same things. Just the music is different.”
Speaking of music, WMUW seeks to introduce music that listeners won’t hear on any other station in the area.
Sometimes, they can even catch an interview or even a live performance by local artists on The HITMAN’s show on Wednesday nights.
It is also important to note that any student at The W can have a show, not just communication majors. All one has to do is email Harlan at eeharlan@muw.edu and set up a time to meet and discuss the idea for the show and choose a time slot.
“It’s not difficult — if you can click a mouse and flip a switch you too can do big-time radio!” Harlan added.