In October 2017, the future of classical music on the FM dial in the Salt Lake City-Ogden-Provo market was put into question when Brigham Young University revealed a major consolidation effort set for completion in July 2018.
As part of this effort, the school’s BYU Broadcasting announced it would “consolidate” its SiriusXM-exclusive BYUradio by simulcasting it on Class C 30kw KBYU-FM 89.1 in Provo.
Translation: “Classical 89” was set to disappear. Now, that’s not happening, thanks to a deal revealed by BYU on Thursday (4/26).
Until now, June 30 was the date lovers of Bach and Brahms had likely circled as the final day they could hear classical music 24/7 on an FM station along the Wasatch Front.
With a booming signal extending north to Logan and east to Park City’s ski slopes, KBYU will be a big hub for “its current mixed format of live locally-hosted talk, public affairs, educational and classical music programming.”
Where will the classical programming air? Community Wireless of Park City-owned KUMT-FM 107.9, an 89kw Class C noncomm licensed to Randolph, Utah.
It’s a rimshot signal that covers the Park City area and much of metropolitan Salt Lake City, Ogden and Orem. This gives improved coverage to Logan, and is benefited from the placement of four booster signals across the metro.
KUMT currently airs an Adult Alternative format as “107.9 The Mountain.” While the acquisition means “Classical 107.9” will soon be a reality, fans of The Mountain in Nielsen Audio market No. 29 will now likely turn to Class C noncomm KRCL-FM 90.9, which airs an eclectic mix of Adult Alternative music.
Additionally, KLO Broadcasting’s Class C KSQN-FM 103.1, licensed to Coalville, Utah, offers fans of 1980s new wave music their own dedicated station, as “103.1 The Wave.”
Why the change of heart from BYU on the future of classical music?
“Following a thorough strategic review of its nationwide broadcast and digital channels and seeking a way to keep classical music in Utah based upon listeners feedback, BYU Broadcasting became aware that KUMT, which provided a coverage footprint that included most of the Wasatch Front, was up for sale,” the school explained in a news release distributed on Thursday (4/26).
A purchase price was not immediately disclosed and is expected to appear in the Form 314 filing to be made with the FCC on Friday.
Greg Merrill of Media Services Group’s Rocky Mountains office represented the parties in this transaction.
Michael Dunn, managing director of BYU Broadcasting, commented, “I am just thrilled for what this means to our thousands of ardent Classical 89 fans we have in this market. This acquisition is truly a win-win for all.”
Community Wireless of Park City will continue to own Class A KPCW-FM 91.7 in Park City. This facility, an NPR member station, does not reach the greater Salt Lake City area.
