Government is launching a website to promote the talents of Bermudian musicians.

The initiative will strike a chord with local artists, some of whom feel they are "undervalued".

Junior Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation, Senator Thaao Dill, announced the move yesterday in the Senate, saying an official website launch will take place this month.

"Music is the skin of a society. It is how we present ourselves to those around us, how we protect ourselves from external damage, how we hold our body together," he told the Senate.

"Without this tool of expression and preservation, without music, we would cease to be.

"Even in times of economic hardship, this Government recognises the importance of continuing to support the musicians and entertainers who are part of Bermuda's diverse musical community."

Sen. Dill said the website was the result of a Government-commissioned report in 2004 into the state of entertainment on the Island.

"Dedicated to musicians and entertainment in Bermuda, the website will serve as a resource directory for anyone interested in Bermuda's music scene," he said.

As part of the campaign to raise the profile of local musicians, a newsletter 'Rhythm on the Rock' will be distributed this Spring.

Another initiative entitled 'Portraits' will offer musicians a free photo shoot which they can then use in their press kits and portfolios. The professional portraits will also form a photographic archive of Bermudian musicians, both past and present.

Two workshops this spring will then provide training in putting together press kits and event production.

Sen. Dill said: "The Department of Community and Cultural Affairs has worked together with the Bermuda Federation of Musicians and Variety Artists as well as other members of the music industry in Bermuda to push these initiatives forward.

"They represent tangible and concerted steps forward that the Ministry is taking to support and promote Bermuda's musicians and entertainment industry,

"Music is the skin of our society, and based on the programmes and projects described we won't be suffering any bruises anytime soon," he said.

Yesterday, the moves were welcomed by local musicians.

Robert Edwards, keyboardist and musical director with the Wall Street Band, said: "I think it's a great idea. I think it's very important to raise the profile of our music scene.

"But it's not just a Government thing, I think everybody involved has to chip in. It's not just a one-way street that the Government does this and we keep doing the same thing. As musicians ourselves we need to up our game.

"Management of establishments also have to understand that some people are making a living from this and so they can't just give us scraps."

Mr. Edwards, 43, who also plays in the duo 'Smooth' on the hotel circuit, said: "At times I do think musicians in Bermuda are undervalued. I don't think they are respected, but it's our own fault too as we need to get our product out there, recorded and on the airwaves, to get that respect."

He said: "This website will help us a lot. If people want to hire a band, for example if they are getting married in Bermuda, they can just go on the website and all the information will be there. I think this will be excellent."