Tommy Tycho on the Ford Show

Just as television had started out, variety programs were still being presented on radio stations as the transition between the two mediums began. Radio was still an important feature of entertainment in the 1950s until television programs became more established. While the ABC took responsibility in presenting programs of classical music, drama presentations, and the broadcast of light music, commercial radio stations often broadcast recordings of popular music.

The Ford Show (sponsored by the Ford motor car company), was a different kind of radio program that featured its own studio orchestra (not as common on commercial radio stations at the time). The studio orchestra featured a small string section, brass, woodwinds, a rhythm section and a small vocal group (you can see the image of the orchestra above). The orchestra was called the Ford Show Orchestra and was conducted by Bob Gibson and the program was hosted by David Lowe and featured the singing group The Consulaires. The program was broadcast from the 2UW Theatre and dates from c. 1956/1957.

After the orchestra fanfare, the announcer, David Lowe, introduces Tommy and he then performs his special arrangement of Tiger Rag.