New Zealand music a focus of Australian Market

14 July 2005

New Zealand music a focus of Australian Market

Hot young New Zealand musicians, an acclaimed singer/songwriter and an exponent of traditional ancient Màori music will be showcased at next week's Australian International Music Market with Creative New Zealand support.

New Zealand's inaugural presence at the market in Brisbane from 18-22 July will include performances by Nesian Mystik, Tha Feelstyle, Hinewehi Mohi and James Webster

New Zealand's participation in the market is part of Creative New Zealand's push to build international audiences and markets for New Zealand work. The artists' presence will be supported by a DVD and catalogue featuring 35 contemporary musicians and a reception where Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Judith Tizard will speak to international delegates.

Cath Cardiff, Creative New Zealand's Manager of Audience and Market Development, says New Zealand is one of only four guest countries invited to participate in the market.

"It's a great opportunity for New Zealand musicians," she said. "The event attracts international musicians, presenters, promoters, agents, festival directors, venue managers, tour promoters and record companies. We're focusing on showcasing music with Màori and Pacific roots. This is one of our major points of difference in the world market."

The Australian International Music Market is held in conjunction with the Queensland Music Festival and is attended by delegates from Australia, Asia, the Pacific, Central and South America, Japan, Europe, Canada and the United States.

Nesian Mystik lead singer Te Awanui Reeder says the market will be a platform to launch themselves internationally. The Auckland band is finalising its second album for release by early next year and Reeder believes it has a fresh, distinctive product to take to the world.

"We've done pretty well in Aotearoa and it's inevitable that we take another step. We've got some good music, good stories and universal messages, and so I think anyone can get down to it."

The New Zealand focus at the market will be further enhanced by the appearance of percussion group Strike which is performing throughout the Queensland Music Festival.

ENDS

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