November 18, 1996
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

The following is being distributed at the request of John Cabot (1997) 500th Anniversary Corporation:

VISTA '97 Produce Commemorative Music Recording

VISTA '97, in conjunction with Blue Sky Recording Studio and the Bonavisteers, will be producing a special recording of local musicians to commemorate next year's Cabot 500 Celebrations.

"We decided this was an excellent way to promote local musicians and, at the same time, celebrate our heritage and culture through music and song." says Brent Meade, event coordinator with VISTA '97. The album will feature 12 local artists and groups who presently are involved in the performing arts.

"We are looking for selections which are traditional, and which reflect our heritage and culture," says Reg Durdle, a member of VISTA '97's Entertainment Committee. "They can be a cappella, choral arrangements, jigs or reels, or instrumental pieces," he adds.

The recording will be ready in time for next year's most significant event, the Matthew Landfall event from June 24 - 26. It is expected it will be a popular souvenir item for visiting friends and relatives as well as out-of-province visitors from all over the world.

"We would like to see original material as part of this recording," says Glenn Brown, producer of the album. "It will showcase local traditions and talents we have on the Bonavista Peninsula."

Interested artists or groups may submit selections to the VISTA "97 Office, Post Office Building in Bonavista, no later than November 29, 1996. As well, visual artists may submit concepts for an album cover. For more information, call VISTA '97 at 468-1997 or Glenn Brown at 468- 2284.

Contact: Brent Meade, Event Co-ordinator, (709) 468-1997.