Brian Mahoney Suggest updates
Brian Mahoney was best known for his career as a programme director with Scottish Television.
Originally educated at the Royal High School, Edinburgh, Mahoney began his career as an actor, but his interest in stage management soon led him to Edinburgh Gateway Theatre and Bristol Old Vic.
At Scottish Television, Mahoney directed many different types of programmes including some on artistic themes. In particular, Mahoney was responsible for pioneering music programmes including those on the Scottish National Orchestra; and Singing for your Supper, an adult education series of programmes on opera which was first broadcast on Sunday afternoons in 1967.
Narrated by Ian Wallace, the programmes presented scenes from a range of operas. The many performers taking part included Alexander Gibson, Catherine Wilson, David Ward, Charles Craig, Murray Dickie and Josephine McQueen.
Singing for your Supper was well received and drew good viewing figures. Scottish Opera credited it with having significantly raised interest and attendances.
Operagoers in Scotland owe Scottish Television a considerable debt. Not only did STV contribute vital funds toward the startup of Scottish Opera but for some years their coverage of the arts and of opera in particular was worthy of note.
