On Saturday, May 17th, the youngest listeners of Radio România Muzical, along with their parents, met Ana Voinescu, the creator of the beloved children's radio rubric "Mister Do".

The first event in the new series "Radio România Muzical Encounters at Cărturești Verona Bookstore" in Bucharest brought together Radio România Muzical's youngest audience and their parents for a delightful gathering with "Mister Do", the charming character from the children's radio rubric, and Ana Voinescu, its creator and an expert in early childhood education.

In a warm and friendly atmosphere filled with smiles and curious eyes, children were introduced to the magical world of "Mister Do" by listening to one of his stories, through which they discovered the sounds of a variety of musical instruments. They even had the chance to explore child-friendly musical instruments brought to the bookstore, learning the notes from C to G through colorful associations. The event culminated in a joyful group performance of the well-known "Ode to Joy" from Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, filling the room with laughter and cheer.

Ana Voinescu also spoke to the attending parents about the importance of introducing children to music from an early age and the many benefits that musical exposure offers in early development.

The event was opened by Cristina Comandașu, manager of Radio România Muzical, and the visionary behind various projects aimed at bringing classical music closer to the public, including this new series of in-person meetings with listeners. She took the opportunity to speak with parents in a direct dialogue, gathering feedback on the station's programs and projects.

"We launched these initiatives based on the idea of getting to know our listeners while also conducting an informal study that would allow us to gather feedback. As a manager, I can then use this input to better adapt our programmes to the audience's needs," - Cristina Comandașu.

A special prize-a course at MIMA Muzica-was awarded during the event, and we also gathered some impressions from the attendees:

"I love Ana Voinescu's show. We discovered it last fall when we started going to school, and we listen to it in the car with great joy. When we heard the invitation, we got ready right away. For the past two weeks, we've been telling the family about the upcoming event, and we're thrilled to be here."

"I think it's important for children to have a basic understanding of music. Classical music is beautiful-we love listening to it in the mornings on our way to school. Personally, I find it very calming, especially compared to other radio stations that are full of ads and hectic music. Radio România Muzical gives me a sense of peace, which helps with the stressful morning traffic."

"It was such a lovely event! My little one had fun, learned new things, and really enjoyed himself. He's only 2 years old, but he already loves music."

"My daughter is a bit older-she's turning 11 soon-but she fit in wonderfully. She's usually shy, but being with a friend and seeing the colorful instruments made her really enjoy it. I think it's such a great idea to introduce children to music early, just like Ana Voinescu said. We listen to Radio România Muzical in the car, and I believe that if you introduce music at a young age, through games and associations like colors and notes, it really helps. This was a wonderful first event!"

Emilia Cepișcă, representing the Friends of Radio România Muzical Association, also attended the event: "In our day-to-day lives, we don't work in music, but somehowwe've always been connected to it, ever since childhood. I'm sure there are many people like me, who grew up with a radio always on in the background. That comforting sound of music was a part of our lives. That's why I support this radio station-it's the one I listen to daily. I truly admire everything Cristina Comandașu has done, bringing the station closer to people. You can see it in the audience stats. People of all ages find something they love on this station."

"I'm happy to be part of the Friends of Radio RomâniaMuzical Association and I hope more people will join us. This is a unique radio station, and we can support it in very real ways. Go to www.prieteniirrm.ro to see how you can help-whether it's by donating, becoming a member, or submitting the 230 ANAF tax form. Even something as small as the cost of a monthly coffee can make a big difference. The more of us there are, the better we can support ideas about classical music, culture, and what makes us feel inspired and special."

The "Mister Do" radio rubric airs every Monday morning at 7:45 AM on Radio România Muzical. Previous episodes are available at https://www.romania-muzical.ro/ under the "Relisten to programmes" section.

The next Radio România Muzical Encounter will take place again at Cărturești Verona Bookstore, on June 19th, when the guest will be Cristina Uruc, Director of ARTEXIM and organizer of the "George Enescu" International Festival and Competition.

Photo gallery: