ArtSound FM 92.7 is Canberra’s dedicated community radio station for music, arts, and culture. Founded in 1983 as Canberra Stereo Public Radio (CSPR), it began as a small volunteer-driven initiative aiming to create a high-quality FM service supportive of Canberra’s diverse music and arts communities.
Early Years: The Volunteer Spirit Takes Flight (1983–1999)
In its earliest years, ArtSound (then CSPR) conducted test broadcasts from a converted studio in the old Curtin Children’s Library. Volunteers—many passionate local musicians, presenters, and lovers of the arts—ran the station with enthusiasm, creating a distinctive, locally focused voice. Although faced with licensing challenges, including competing applicants, the station persevered by delivering intermittent broadcasts, building a loyal listener base.
By the early 1990s, ArtSound increased its airtime with weekend-long broadcasts and eventually weekday programming. It successfully navigated the complex licensing environment to secure full-time community radio status in 2000, an achievement that marked its emergence as Canberra’s premier arts and music broadcaster.
Growth and Consolidation: A Home for Cultural Diversity (2000–2010)
With a full-time license secured, ArtSound expanded its programming roster, cultivating a rich blend of jazz, classical, folk, world music, spoken word, theatre, and arts news. A growing volunteer base and strong community partnerships bolstered the station’s offerings and reach.
The station became more than a broadcaster – it evolved into an essential cultural hub, supporting local artists, live performances, and Canberra’s vibrant arts sector.
Digital Age and Innovation: Broadening Horizons (2011–Present)
As media landscapes shifted, ArtSound embraced digital innovation by streaming online and extending its programming hours. Specialist shows for Indigenous voices, youth, and emerging genres diversified its portfolio. The station also launched podcasting and enhanced community connections through event hosting and partnerships.
Today, ArtSound operates numerous studios and services including live recordings and the Senior Memories streaming service designed for aged care, emphasizing its commitment to broad accessibility and community well-being.
Milestones at a Glance
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1983 | Formation as Canberra Stereo Public Radio (CSPR) |
| 1993 | Weekend-long broadcasts increase reach |
| 2000 | Awarded full-time community radio license; becomes ArtSound FM 92.7 |
| 2005 | Launch of online streaming service |
| 2012 | Expanded Indigenous and cultural programming |
| 2017 | Began new youth and specialist programming |
| 2020 | Website overhaul for enhanced user engagement |
| 2023 | Initiated podcast series featuring local artists |
What the Community Says
“ArtSound FM has been my go-to Canberra radio station for many years. Their ongoing support and promotion of Canberra’s live music scene has been crucial to the continuing viability and health of this important cultural sector. Local and visiting artists agree that ArtSound FM is an indispensable source to both promote their gigs and keep the broader public informed about Canberra’s night life.”
— Mike Nock, ONZM, pianist/composer, Australian Jazz Hall of Fame inductee
“We’re passionate about audio. Since one of the first times that I had the opportunity to tour down under, and the ACT, ArtSound FM was around for me. It’s wonderful to see that, every time I visit the Canberra region, ArtSound is ready to support me: live interview, recording of my live show, broadcasting some of my music to announce my show… I couldn’t imagine a better way of support than the way ArtSound FM does it!”
— Jef Neve, Belgian jazz pianist and composer
“ArtSound are true champions of the local music scene, a great support to emerging composers and musicians in reaching a wider audience.”
— Luke Sweeting, jazz pianist & composer
With a foundation deeply rooted in volunteer passion and community support, ArtSound FM continues to thrive as Canberra’s essential arts and music broadcaster—connecting listeners, artists, and creative communities through high-quality radio and digital programming.