New Zealand musicians will this month be at the forefront of those heralding the 13th annual New Zealand Music Month.
''It's just got better and better every year,'' Martin Phillipps, of The Chills, said this week. ''For people of my age, it's a good reminder of how far we've come. There was so much resistance to New Zealand music for so long.''
In 1995, only 1.6% of all songs played on commercial radio stations were of New Zealand origin. Within five years of New Zealand Music Month being founded in 2000, New Zealand music had surged to 20% of all songs played on commercial radio.
''When you make new music you are aware, or should be, that you stand on the shoulders of those who have laboured before you,'' University of Otago head of music Dr Graeme Downes said yesterday.
''New music concurrently celebrates the here and now and the past.
''This is New Zealand Music Month. The fact we have it - and that there was a time we didn't - acknowledges both past and present.''
The emergence of new digital platforms and online options, as well as traditional broadcast media and live performance, had made New Zealand music more accessible, Broadcasting Minister Craig Foss said.
''This means Kiwi artists cannot only reach an audience at home, but also overseas. It is fantastic we have a whole month dedicated to supporting New Zealand musicians and artists.''
More than 350 events are planned across the country during May to promote and celebrate New Zealand music.
''It is heartening to know that talented young people have the support of a strong New Zealand music industry,'' Youth Affairs Minister Nikki Kaye said.
''New Zealand Music Month is a superb opportunity to celebrate both established and emerging young Kiwi artists.''
The month started in Dunedin yesterday, with a series of free concerts by local musicians on the Dunedin Central Library ground floor.
The first heat of the Otago University Students' Association ''Battle of the Bands'' starts at 9pm today at ReFuel. Heats will be held at ReFuel every Friday night, culminating in the final on May 25.
Dunedin troubadour Matt Langley will also release his new album, Virginia Avenue, at 9pm today at Chicks Hotel.
