The local talent and the corporate sponsors for this years Bermuda Music Festival (BMF) have been revealed by the Bermuda Department of Tourism at the Fairmont Southampton Beach Club's Ocean Club.

Local talent, such as The Bermuda Mass Choir, United Dance Productions, Troy Anthony, Bermuda Idol Larrita Adderley, Twanae Butterfield, Warner Gombeys Troupe, and H & H Gombeys, to name a few, will be performing on the main stage.

Acting Minister of Tourism and Transport, Terry Lister yesterday said: "This is undoubtedly a very impressive line up of local talent and sponsors.

"We would like to officially acknowledge many of our sponsors of the 2008 Bermuda Music Festival. It's been said that great partnerships make for a great event, and this line up of sponsors can be considered some of the best corporate citizens in our community.

"We are grateful for their participation and their support."

The sponsors for the event include Bank of Bermuda, Digicel Bermuda, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Capital G Limited, Bacardi, Pitt and Company, Barritt's, Electronic Services, TeleBermuda and the host hotel for the 2008 event Fairmont Bermuda.

"It is a known fact that in order for the vacation experience to be a memorable one, visitors must feel the true pulse of a destination. And without question, music and entertainment are the heartbeat of a destination.

"And what better way for our residents and visitors to feel the pulse of our Island than by witnessing the crème de la crème in local talent on the biggest stage in Bermuda.

"This is undoubtedly a very impressive line up of local talent and sponsors.

"The 13th Anniversary of Bermuda Music Festival marks a truly exciting time for Bermuda when both residents and visitors alike have an opportunity to experience some of the finest in local and international talent," he said.

The producer for the event Rock Newman and co-producer David Durham were also in attendance.

Minister Lister said of the pair: "Their partnership is one that has shown great results. Their combined experience and reputation for producing first class events has truly elevated the profile of this year's Bermuda Music Festival."

The 2008 Bermuda Music Festival will be held from October 1-4 at the National Stadium.