Wall of dreams

MSG Classroom student, Titus from Foundation partner organization Children’s Aid Society, shared his recent experience shadowing MSG Networks Studio Host, Bill Pidto:

“My experience learning from Bill Pidto was amazing. I got to talk to a lot of people who work behind-the-scenes to make MSG 150 a success every night. I learned that it takes a team to make sure that the show goes as planned. I also had the chance to sit in on a production meeting with MSG Networks Knicks Reporter, Rebecca Haarlow before the game and was able to see what it was like before the team actually goes live on TV. While I was there, I took notes and learned that the production team meets before every game so that they don’t make mistakes while on TV. What was interesting to me about the meeting was that they plan out every single segment before the game. Then, I had the opportunity meet with Bill Pidto; I was nervous, but also excited. He introduced me to the editing crew who compiles the highlights of previous games and games that are being played that night to show during MSG 150. After Bill Pidto receives the highlights, it’s his job to give a description to each highlight. When I would watch the MSG 150, I thought that his job was to read off the monitor, but I was wrong. I learned that Bill Pidto works incredibly hard whether it means doing research on certain players or topics or just clarifying with his crew to make sure there isn’t any false information.

I then was able to visit the MSG Studio where they do all the filming. Before the show, I asked Bill Pidto, “How do you stay so calm, but still focused?” He told me that because he’s been doing this for so long and taking the time to practice, it has become second nature to him. One thing that I took away was that it is so important to practice, and that practice makes permanent. I also learned that actually being in the studio and watching it from home on your TV are two different experiences. When I watch MSG 150 at home and I hear Bill Pidto describing the highlights, he sounds so energetic and pumped up, but when I actually see what’s happening, he looks calm and focused. He then asked me, “Did I enjoy the show?” and I responded, “Without a doubt!”

Afterwards, Bill Pidto shared more insight into the sports broadcasting world and he told me, “When you get on that camera, no matter what, always remember to be yourself and if you can do that, you will go a long way in this business.” During my experience, I took away the insight that Bill Pidto had given me and I will use it wherever I go.

Finally, I would to thank Bill Pidto and Rebecca Haarlow for sharing so much advice on their industry with me, and MSG Networks for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the Network for the night.”

– Titus, MSG Classroom Student, Fall 2016