Music enthusiasts from around the world will be able to enjoy a feast of Caribbean sounds during the annual Caribbean Music Expo scheduled for November 29 to December 3 in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

Bamboleo-Cuba

In addition to the conferences and workshops, which will cover various aspects of the business of music, CME 2000 will also feature several live concerts highlighting the wide array of music genres in the region.  

The concerts will feature regional and international artistes performing Reggae, Dancehall, Salsa, Merengue, Soca, Zouk, Jazz, R&B and Hip Hop.  Artistes who wish to appear on the CME concerts are required to submit their applications prior to August 31.  Information about showcase participation can be secured from the Music Commission at JAMPRO or by visiting the CME website at www.cme.com.jm.

According to the CME 2000 organizers, several applications have already been received from artistes in Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, Guyana, Cuba, Brazil, Haiti and Guadeloupe.

Allison Hinds-Barbados

CME 2000 will be made available to persons worldwide by way of a live webcast as was done in the inaugural event last November.  Music lovers will also be able to participate in the grand CD Market which will take place on December 2 at the Renaissance Jamaica Grande.  

Elsie Muniz-Puerto Rico

The CD Market is a new feature to CME designed to allow participation in the music trade fair by members of the public.  At the CD Market, exhibitors participating in the trade show will be allowed to sell CDs of music from Caribbean performers in Reggae, Latin, Soca and Zouk. 

This is slated to be a major attraction to the Expo as efforts are being made to ensure that visitors to the CD Market will be able to purchase at discounted prices, CDs of Caribbean music which are normally very hard to come by.  The CD Market day is expected to contribute significantly to increased access to and awareness of Caribbean music by members of the public and regional media personnel.