22/03/2011

NI Acts 'Excel' In Texas

Northern Ireland's biggest international creative-industry trade mission to Austin Texas has been a roaring success.

The yearly trip to the famous South by Southwest festival involved 16 NI music companies and 20 NI interactive and digital companies, each of whom sent delegates to the Texan showcase, which is one of the world's largest showcases and conferences for upcoming music acts and entrepreneurs.

NI acts, including Duke Special, rock band Lafaro and the Lost Brothers played over 15 showcases between them, each receiving rapturous receptions from the international music and media industry audience.

Ross Graham of Northern Ireland's FFWD music industry development program said: "Northern Ireland's music businesses, songwriters and bands have proved yet again that they have just what it takes to excel in the global music marketplace."

The mission was supported by Invest N. Ireland, Belfast City Council, The Arts Council and The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.

(DW/KMcA)

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