RT Radio 1 unveils new audio identity

RT Radio 1 has today launched a significant step in its ongoing strategic evolution. Following the launch of its brand-new schedule late last year, RT Radio 1 today unveiled a new, fully unified audio identity for the station, designed to further strengthen its appeal to audiences and maintain the station as Ireland's first choice for radio.

Starting today, listeners will enjoy new programme signature tunes across the entire schedule, including new themes for news bulletins and continuity, as well as updated imaging for weather, sport, traffic and travel. Key elements of the new themes, including all brass, strings and other elements, were performed and recorded by the RT Concert Orchestra. The initiative forms part of a broader transformation across the station, including a refreshed schedule and updated presenter imaging.

This is the first time RT Radio 1 will implement a fully unified audio identity across its output, and the project was informed by in-depth qualitative and quantitative research conducted with IPSOS B&A, exploring audience attitudes, needs and preferences among listeners and non-listeners. Following a competitive public procurement process, leading audio branding agency WiseBuddah was appointed to develop the new sound. Directed by RT 's creative audio imaging team, brand team and Radio 1 station management, WiseBuddah has created a comprehensive, round-the-clock sound suite tailored to the station's evolving identity.

Patricia Monahan, Director of Audio, said: This is a landmark moment for RT Radio 1. As we mark 100 years of public media in Ireland, it is essential that we evolve to meet the expectations of a changing audience. Audio identity is one of the most powerful ways we connect with listeners, and this new sound allows us to express who we are today confident, contemporary and relevant. Grounded in robust audience insight and brought to life through an exceptional creative partnership with the RT Concert Orchestra, this work ensures RT Radio 1 is not only heard but will be instantly recognised and felt.

I'm particularly pleased to have worked so closely with the RT Concert Orchestra on this new sound. RT 's support for Irish musicians and composers is well-established, not only through the orchestra, but through major initiatives like the RT Choice Music Prize, the RT Radio 1 Folk Awards and 2fm Rising. Beyond that, RT works closely with Irish composers and performers across its drama, factual and entertainment offerings.

Tara Campbell, Head of RT Radio 1, added: Our ambition is to make RT Radio 1 the first-choice for audiences seeking to understand the world around them. This new audio identity is a vital part of that journey. It complements our refreshed schedule and presenter line-up, helping us to challenge perceptions and showcase the breadth and quality of what we offer. It's about creating a stronger emotional connection with our audience one that feels modern, distinctive and unmistakably RT Radio 1.

The new sound for RT Radio 1 features a single station voice. Continuity announcer Jan N Fhanag in was chosen as the voice of the station, following an internal Expressions of Interest process. Commercial voice artist Keith Singleton becomes the voice of Radio 1's sponsorship stings.

Listeners will hear the new sound for RT Radio 1 starting today.

LISTEN: You can listen to the new sound here.

-ENDS-

Date: 13 April 2026

Notes to Editors:

Following a competitive public procurement process, leading audio branding agency WiseBuddah was appointed to develop the new sound. WiseBuddah brings more than 20 years' experience in composing original music for global media brands, with a portfolio that includes work for major broadcasters such as the BBC, NPR, RTL, and Virgin Radio. The company is also responsible for the current imaging package on RT 2fm.

For more information please contact:

Sharon Sorohan, RT Senior Communications Lead

LINK:	https://about.rte.ie/2026/04/13/rte-radio-1-unveils-new-audio-identity...
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