WXOU celebrated the inaugural National College Radio Day on Oct. 11 with a free concert featuring local bands The Burning Ponies and Rival Summers.

The concert took place from noon-2 p.m. on the patio outside Bumpers Game Room, and featured the various local musicians.

“This (was) a big day for us,” Sean Varicalli, WXOU promotions director, said. “Not only because we are OU’s only college radio station, but because we need to be doing events like this to keep college radio relevant around the state.”

WXOU Music Director Luke Phillips, a senior communications major, discussed the important role college radio serves.

“College radio is really an outlet and an alternative to mainstream radio stations throughout America,” he said.  “They try to provide programming, and play music and have certain types of shows that you just wouldn’t be able to fly on a corporate, mainstream radio station.”

Phillips said because WXOU is on a college campus, they have more freedom without having to worry about restrictions of content for both musicians and hosts.

Phil Berard, General Manager of WXOU has a received a scholarship through his work with the radio station.

“(WXOU) provides an outlet for independent musicians to be heard by a large market with varying musical tastes,” Berard said. “College radio gives student DJ’s the opportunity to share their favorite music with their peers.”

This benefit allows WXOU to do anything from radio dramas and news shows to reggae

Berard believes involvement can result in a greater appreciate in broadcasting arts.

“For students looking to pursue broadcasting professionally, we provide an opportunity to learn the craft as well as build a portfolio and assemble an air check to apply to other stations,” Berard said. “Radio broadcasting is also great way to challenge yourself and enhance your communication skills.”

Students can get involved by stopping by the WXOU office (69 Oakland Center) to fill out an application.

WXOU can be heard on campus over the airwaves on 88.3 FM and around the world on wxou.org.