FREDERICTON, September 21, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton), announced funding for the 2009 Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival, which took place from September 15 to 20.
"Our Government is delighted to support the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival, a world-class event that contributes to the vitality of the community," said Minister Moore. "This much-loved festival gives audiences of all ages the chance to enjoy well-known, established artists and discover the exciting work of new artists."
Now in its 19th year, the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival is one of the largest specialized festivals of its kind in Atlantic Canada and attracts more than 70 000 visitors annually. The Festival celebrates jazz, blues, and world music--from traditional and acoustic to funk, zydeco, and contemporary Canadian jazz.
Upwards of 350 professional and emerging artists from across Canada and abroad were showcased during this year's six-day festival. In addition to performances at a variety of venues, the Festival also featured a KidsFest, programming for teenagers, and a "Blues in the School" program, as well as interactive workshops and opportunities for the public to play instruments.
"It is so great to see the city of Fredericton come alive each year during this festival," said Minister of State Ashfield. "And it is wonderful how this festival is supported by community participation and volunteers. I would like to congratulate everyone involved who has made this event the success that it has come to be over the past 19 years."
"This is a critical contribution from the Government of Canada," said Patti Graham, Festival Chair. "It allows Harvest Jazz and Blues to continue its development into one of Canada's premier music festivals. Harvest is poised to deliver an excellent return on the federal government's investment."
The Government of Canada has provided $43,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund (formerly Arts Presentation Canada program) of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
