Montreal Musician and Musical Instrument Show July 6 - 9

Montreal, Wednesday, July 5th, 2006 - The Festival International de Jazz de Montral (Montreal International Jazz Festival) is the 'Biggest Jazz Festival on Earth', according to the Guinness Book of World Records. And it didn't get that way without a whole lot of innovation. Since its inception in 1980, the Mecca for lovers of jazz and its musical cousins has been continually adding to the formula.

Last year witnessed the launching of the 1st annual Montreal Musician and Musical Instrument Show (MMMIS), the brainchild of local promoter Jacques-Andr Dupont who wanted to bridge the gap between festival performers, amateur musicians and music lovers. No one has to be a jazz icon or rock star to enjoy the intense personal satisfaction of making music. And the one thing professionals and amateurs have in common is their instruments and their love for music. What better way to bring them together, thought Dupont, than to gather the world's biggest names in musical instruments all in one place? And what better place could there be than the Festival International de Jazz de Montral?

The inaugural 2005 edition was a resounding success, with no less than 90,000 visitors passing through, a clear testimony that there is a need for interaction among music lovers, whether novice or veteran! This year, MMMIS will welcome nearly 140 exhibitors-around 100 more than last year!-and will be offering about 70 workshops, shows and activities, all totally free of charge. Close to 100 luthiers and instrument manufacturers and makers from among the world's best (and among them, American guitar-makers like Charles Fox, Jeff Traugott, Tom Ribbecke, Rick Davis and Canadian Linda Manzer), presenting true works of art. So it's rendezvous time with dozens of guitars of all types (classical, jazz, electric, gypsy, acoustic), basses, violins, double basses, accordions, harps and other instruments. The free- access, non-profit event will also present about 50 kiosks with the biggest brand names such as Roland, Marshall, Apple, Pearl, Korg, Godin, Gibson, Fender, Beyerdynamic, Steinway & Sons, D'Addario, Digiteh, Elixir, Ibanez, Hagstrom, Morley, Orange, Sennheiser, Tama, Vox and Warwick. It's an altogether unique opportunity to try out the latest creations of musical instruments and accessories, from world- renowned brand names to hand-crafted instruments. And all events and activities happen directly on the jazz festival site, so visitors are bound to hear some terrifically inspiring music, as well.

The essence of the MMMIS is to increase accessibility to music making by promoting interaction with festival-goers. This includes intensive one-hour guitar and saxophone lessons and Guitar Jams every day, where anyone can participate. This year features yet another novelty: the Guitar Guitar Series, aimed specifically at aficionados of that highly versatile instrument. Four shows will be staged free of charge, one for each evening of the 4-day event, and each featuring guitar professionals eager to share their knowledge with all comers.

It is even possible to stroll through this musical landscape while being seduced by the charms of Piedmont, Umbria, the Marches and Tuscany. The MMMIS is extremely proud to welcome SUONO ITALIA and Italy, the country of honour in this second edition of our music celebration. Discover Italian music through these four idyllic regions, which, together with nearly 30 luthiers and instrument makers, will be unveiling an inspirational collection of unique musical instruments, among other surprises! An enthralling combination of musical passion and the art of Italian living!

Quebec guitar-maker Robert Godin will be in the spotlight this year, the world-famous designer and manufacturer of instruments treasured by the likes of John McLaughlin, Leonard Cohen, Habib Kote, Al Di Meola, Bob Walsh, Kirk Hamett, Randy Bachman, Steve Stevens, Daryl Stuermer, Jesse Cook, Kenny Rogers, Bruce Cockburn, Peppino D'Agostino and Kirk Hammett. Eight guitars created by Godin have been re-designed, painted and sometimes even sculpted by the Festival's artist Yves Archambault, making each a unique work of art. You can even bid for one at the silent auction of the MMMIS.

The MMMIS offers amateurs and professionals alike the chance to take part in the activities that were such great hits last year. These classics-in-the-making include the MMMIS exclusive workshops presented by the great names in music, from cellist Eric Longsworth, to saxophonist Joe Lovano and guitarists Pat Martino, Rick Haworth, Mario Lgar, John Jorgensen and Kaki King. The event even features Meet the Artist interviews, where visitors will get the chance to hear world- renowned artists like Daniel Lanois, Salif Keita and Bonnie Raitt describing their musical passions in their own words.

The MMMIS' objective is to encourage the next generation of musicians, lending its support to Young Musicians of the World, a non- profit organization that's partnered with the World Youth Foundation. The organization sets up traditional music schools around the globe and works with youth in needy villages and neighborhoods, both at home and abroad, helping them to preserve the musical traditions of their respective cultures.

The 2nd edition of the Montreal Musician and Musical Instrument Show takes place on Thursday and Friday, July 6th and 7th from 4 to 9 p.m., and from 1 to 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, July 8th and 9th. For a full listing of all instrument manufacturers and artists taking part in this year's MMMIS at the Festival International de Jazz de Montral, visit the www.mmmis.ca.