Peter Thompson
Producer and Host, Bluegrass Signal
Peter Thompson's first radio-like experiences involved recording concerts (hand-held mic + cassette deck), making mix tapes for friends and attending/hosting listening parties with other enthusiasts. These proclivities found a broadcast outlet at Vancouver Co-op Radio, where, starting in 1975, Peter not only produced a wide variety of programs but also served as Program Director and Music Director. For many years, Peter also was a freelance producer for CBC Radio, and taught in a college media production program. Following a move to the Bay Area, Peter hosted programs at KCSM and KPFA before launching Bluegrass Signal on KALW in October 1995. Since 2004, the program has been syndicated on WAMU's Bluegrass Country.
Peter has also been a member of Redwood Bluegrass Associates' Board Of Directors since 1994, served on the Freight & Salvage's BOD for eight years, and currently is a volunteer for the California Bluegrass Association and an active member of the International Bluegrass Music Association.
He's married to Kathy Kallick, who also happens to be my favorite singer/songwriter/band leader/guitar player; neither of their daughters, sad to say, have shown much interest in music from the true vine.
Peter grew up in Michigan, quite a distance from those "deep rolling hills," but the little hairs on the back of his neck went straight up the first time he heard the Stanley Brothers sing, and not much has changed since then.
