International music industry arrives for kiwi music

A group of leading international music industry representatives has arrived to take in the sights of New Zealand by day and the sounds of New Zealand by night during The World Series, a week of New Zealand music showcases linked to the America’s Cup.

The World Series is aimed at helping New Zealand musicians tap into valuable offshore markets. It starts tomorrow with Prime Minister Helen Clark opening the first of five music showcases in front of international music and media industry guests and local fans.

Prime Minister Helen Clark and Minister for the America’s Cup Trevor Mallard said The World Series was a government and industry-funded programme that is expected to generate significant offshore business leads for export-ready New Zealand musicians.

“The calibre of the guests is very high and includes record company executives, promoters, touring agents, music publishing executives and music media from key export markets such as Europe, USA and Australia,” said Helen Clark.

“New Zealand music has had its strongest couple of years ever in terms of domestic sales and popularity and the government wants to seize the opportunity to help musicians succeed on the world stage. The recent international success of groups including The Datsuns, The D4 and Concord Dawn shows that New Zealand contemporary music is world-class.”

“The Government has identified the creative sector as one of three areas that’s important for New Zealand’s future economic growth. It’s an area where we can build competitive advantage based on exciting natural talent,” Helen Clark said. Trevor Mallard said the government recognised that many high powered individuals in the music industry also have an interest in yachting and the America’s Cup.

“The World Series is a great way to maximise New Zealand’s musical and maritime success.

“This New Zealand music week is already a success, judging by the number of high-powered global music industry leaders who are spending a week here to listen to kiwi music,” said Trevor Mallard.

The World Series is taking place during the Louis Vuitton Challenger Series quarter finals. During the day the music industry leaders will be able to watch the racing, visit some of the Auckland region’s finest spots and become acquainted with our products.

“Then at night, they’ll attend showcases where about 30 New Zealand artists will perform a wide range of popular music genres from both the mainstream and niche markets.”

The World Series takes place at the St James complex in Queen Street from 18 – 24 November. The government is investing up to $375,000 in The World Series. The music industry is also supporting the week with at least $100,000 in cash and kind.

“Overall, the government is contributing $4.7 million to a range of America’s Cup-related activities with a heavy focus on initiatives which maximise trade, tourism, and investment potential. The last America’s Cup had an estimated economic benefit to New Zealand of around $640 million, so it’s an event that’s well worth capitalising on,” Trevor Mallard said.

For a full list of the international music industry representatives contact the Project Co-ordinator, Murray Jeffrey (Trade NZ) 021 742 322 or mailto: mailto:murray.jeffrey@tradenz.govt.nz

To find out more about the World Series lineup and other cultural events happening in NZ during the America's Cup, visit the Essential New Zealand website: http:// http://www.essnz.com

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