The Premier, Lara Giddings, today launched the 2012 Festival of Voices with an extended ten day program, running from 6 to 15 July.

 

"Now in its eighth year, the Festival of Voices is a firm fixture on Tasmania's cultural calendar and one of Hobart's biggest winter events," Ms Giddings said.

 

"In 2011, the Festival of Voices attracted over 10,000 people of which around 36 per cent were from interstate, an increase of 23 per cent from 2010.

 

"In fact, ticket sales for the festival in 2011 were up 54 per cent on previous years

 

"This year's event will be the biggest yet and will give more Tasmanians and interstate visitors the chance to celebrate experience, learn and perform.

 

"The Tasmanian Government continues to support the festival with $350,000 a year from Events Tasmania because it adds to the cultural and economic wealth of our state.

 

"Independent research conducted by KPMG in 2011 indicated that the festival provided a $3.47 million boost into the local economy during the quieter winter months.

 

"And, nine out of ten of the interstate visitors in 2011 said they planned to visit Tasmania again in the next four years so this investment is clearly a strong tourism driver.

 

"This is why I was pleased to announce a $5.2 million funding increase to Events Tasmania over the next four years in the recent State Budget."

 

The 2012 Major Workshop Series is designed specifically to challenge and engage singers across all genres, by bringing the best international and national artists to lead workshops.

 

The festival offers a rare opportunity for anyone with a passion for singing to spend up to six days learning from and working with some of the best choral teachers in the world.

 

"The intensive workshops culminate in public performances in major venues including the Federation Concert Hall, St. David's Cathedral and Hobart City Hall." Ms Giddings said.

 

 "It is important that we invest in events such as the Festival of Voices that generate broader economic returns and make Tasmania an attractive place to live and work.

 

"With increased events funding, the benefits of this and many other great Tasmanian Festivals will continue well into the future."

 

The 2012 Festival of Voices will run from Friday, 6 July to Sunday, 15 July.

 

For more information about the workshops and program visit http://www.festivalofvoices.com/