Minister Shelly Glover Announces Funding for FestiBlues International de Montréal

MONTRÉAL, Aug. 6, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the 16^th FestiBlues International de Montréal, which is taking place from August 8 to 11, 2013.

"We are proud to support events like FestiBlues International de Montréal that allow residents and visitors to discover the talent of artists from all backgrounds," said Minister Glover. "These cultural events contribute to the vitality of Canada's economy and improve our quality of life."

This support will be used to present about 100 emerging and established blues artists at the festival. Blues lovers can attend around 30 performances at a range of venues, including Parc Ahuntsic and the Maison de la culture d'Ahuntsic-Cartierville. Activities are also planned to support the next generation of musicians, reach wider audiences, and promote cultural exchanges.

"FestiBlues is pleased to present different types and new trends in blues music, which lets festival goers access more varied professional artistic experiences within the community," said Martin Laviolette, President of FestiBlues international de Montréal.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $35,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund 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.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage