Born on January 13
The First Public Radio Broadcast
Opera, live, through the air.
Next: January 13, 2027
Where it comes from
This Story marks the anniversary of 13 January 1910, when the inventor Lee de Forest sent a live performance from the Metropolitan Opera House in New York out over the air: a double bill of Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci. It is widely counted as the first public radio broadcast.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance, but the anniversary is a good day to switch on the radio, find a live concert or a station from another country, or thank the presenter who keeps you company.
Did you know
Listeners heard the 1910 broadcast through earphones at public receivers around New York, including hotels in Times Square and ships in the harbour.
Read the full story of The First Public Radio Broadcast
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