The Bermuda Federation of Musicians and Variety Artists have welcomed Government support for the entertainment industry ? expressed mostly recently in the policy aiming to promote local talent over the Island?s airwaves.

Musicians Federation president Miles Manders said extended airplay time was a progressive step in promoting not only the Island?s contemporary musicians and artists, but also in honouring past great performers. The Federation, he said, was pleased that the Government was moving to increase its support for local entertainers.

?We wish to acknowledge those radio and TV stations that have increased their play of local entertainers and express our appreciation to those who have supported the playing of local music up to this point,? he added.

The Federation also backed calls for entertainers to submit professionally produced products after local broadcasters voiced concerns about the quality and recognised that broadcasters have concerns about the quality of the recorded product, including production standards, commercial viability and professional presentation.

?The Federation will soon be embarking on an ambitious programme of providing guidance for young and seasoned musicians alike in areas such as performance, delivery, business practices, global presentation techniques as well as the latest in recording and sound reproduction quality, for the protection and preservation of our musical cultural heritage,? he said.