In Memory of Clyde Martin
July 24, 1929 - April 21, 2008

Brad Ferguson and Clyde Martin

The KCSC family is still smaller today, as we mourn the passing of longtime opera host Clyde Martin, who hosted two opera programs a week since 1969. He received the Sigma Alpha Iota Award for Outstanding Classical Programming, and made honorary member of Sigma Alpha Iota for Contribution to the Arts. He was a graduate of the Pasadena Playhouse College of Theatre Arts, and retired as a librarian from the Metropolitan Library System after 37 years. He was Vice President and Chair of the Artists Selection Committee of the Civic Music Association of Oklahoma City. Clyde performed with local area groups including Lyric Theatre, Jewel Box Theatre, Stage Center, Carpenter Square Theatre, and Oklahoma Children's Theatre. His appearances included roles in On Golden Pond, Noises Off, My Fair Lady, Sound of Music, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and Tuesdays with Morrie.

While speaking about the early days of KCSC, Martin said the station’s reach all had to do with the weather. In the days of a 30-watt signal, Martin said “I’d get calls where people said ‘your station is collapsing’ and I’d say ‘where do you live?’ and they’d say ‘southwest Oklahoma City.’” “And I’d say ‘that’s your problem.' The funny thing was that on cloudy days the signal was strong and on bright, sunny days some people couldn’t hear us.” Martin also said before KCSC collected a large music library, he would bring in his own records to play. “I’d come in on Saturdays, open the place up, turn everything on and we’d play the Metropolitan Opera and then I’d turn everything off and leave,” he said.

Clyde’s enthusiasm for and knowledge of music earned him the nickname of “Mr. Opera.” His friendly smile and familiar voice will be missed at the station and on area stages for years to come.  He is survived by friends, fans, and cat, Eliza.  A memorial service was held on April 25th at First Christian Church.  Memorial donations may be made to Civic Music Association or KCSC/KBCW.