BRISBANE’S ‘NEW SOUND’ ATTRACTS MUSIC INDUSTRY HEAVYWEIGHTS

Queensland’s reputation as a global hotspot for new music has drawn some of the industry’s most influential figures to the 2007 Big Sound summit, which is being held in Brisbane from today.

Arts Minister Rod Welford welcomed 300 delegates from Australia, Japan, China, Singapore, India, the United Kingdom, Canada and United States to the annual three-day event which profiles international and Australian musicians to an industry audience.

“Now in its sixth year, Big Sound has established itself as the premier music industry summit in Australia,” Mr Welford said.

“The event is hosted by Q Music and is based at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts in Fortitude Valley.

“Big Sound brings together hundreds of industry representatives to discuss, debate and create business relationships that cross the country and the globe.

“Over the years the summit has helped promote the careers of many Queensland musicians, including Kate Miller-Heidke, Iron On and Brindle.

“This year Big Sound is showcasing 44 international and Australian acts – 36 of which are Queensland-based, highlighting the strength and talent of our local sector.

“Since respected US music magazine Billboard named Brisbane as one of the global hotspots for new music earlier this year, the industry has been paying close attention to the musicians emerging from our state.”

Mr Welford said the State Government provided triennial funding to Q Music and an additional grant of $50,000 to help stage the 2007 Big Sound summit.

“A significant number of delegates from the Asian market this year, is encouraging given predictions that China and India, would become two of the world’s largest music consumers in the next few years,” he said.

“Influential delegates taking part in this year’s summit include respected Australian industry veterans Michael Chugg and Danny Rogers, London’s Andrew Phillips and American tastemaker Nic Harcourt.

“We look forward to many positive outcomes from Big Sound 2007.”

Media contact: Emma Clarey on 3237 1000