Host Profile: Alex Davis
By WTJU
Name: Alex Davis
Name of your Radio Show: Atlantic Weekly II, Saturdays 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Day Job: Special Education Teacher, Virginia Institute of Autism
How long have you been a WTJU host? Since 2015, so almost 6 years!
Why did you become a WTJU host? I became a host to share my love for traditional Irish music and to learn more about live and recorded music on the radio
Why should someone tune into your show in particular? What do you want to share with the world?
I share a wide range of folk music from Ireland and beyond. My focus is usually on traditional instrumental tunes from Ireland but I also enjoy sharing songs from such artists as Susan McKeown and local favorite Karan Casey. As a fiddle player I often showcase fiddlers I think deserve air play.
Tell us about one of your biggest gaffs while in the studio.
Mispronouncing Irish names of tunes and people!
Favorite moments in the air studio?
My favorite moment is probably playing the 20th anniversary live show with the Blue Ridge Irish Music School. It was very special to have a reunion of many people who play Irish music in this area including BRIMS founder Tes Slominski. I love doing my show in the studio and getting calls in from people who enjoy the program. It helps me feel connected to the community!
If you could interview anyone on air, dead or alive, who would it be? Why?
It would be really special to interview Michael Coleman, the great fiddle player from County Sligo.
How has it felt being a radio host during this pandemic?
It has been a special opportunity to keep the WTJU music community going despite all of the cancellations and hardships.
What are your passions outside of music?
Teaching students with autism, theater, using the arts and crafts as a teaching tool.
Why does WTJU matter?
WTJU matters because it brings people together and helps keep both traditional and new music alive and going in new directions.
