Jimmy Cliff

As a part of its initiative to promote the development of Jamaica's music industry, Jampro has been leading a delegation to Midem, the annual music market in France, where professionals in publishing, recording, technology, and more come to wheel, deal and scout new talent, for some time.

Along with the opportunity for networking, Midem also offers conferences and, according to midem.com, in 2006 the conferences offered insight into getting music into films, advertising and video games and making use of international independent associations. Currently, the market attracts approximately 10,000 players.

The 2007 market will be staged from January 21-25 at the Palais de Festivals. The Jampro-led Jamaican delegation has been making the journey to Cannes, France, since 1997. In January, however, there is an attempt to make an even bigger impression with an expansion of the Sounds of Jamaica Booth (strongly branded with red, gold, black and green).

12 booths

The stand will have the capacity for 12 booths as well as a meeting space, storage space, Internet connection, plasma screens, CD and DVD player to facilitating both the initiation of negotiations and the showcasing of talent.

Additionally, Jampro's Jamaica night offers the showcasing of talent. The first such night was also staged in 1997 and is intended to showcase both headliners and upcoming talent.

Participation in the event will cost approximately $300,000, including accommodation, air fare, booth space, registration and a perdiem. A 50-per cent deposit is required by October 30, and a commitment form should also be completed. Funding is also possible through money provided by the European Union.

For those who are interested in getting some exposure at the Midem market, but are unable to actually make the trip, Jampro is also offering the possibility of sending packages along with the delegation.