Page 3 - essay - Copy1
P. 3
see what’s going on beneath the surface, the
more likely they would be to protect it, to a
two-day festival that draws dozens of scuba
divers, snorkelers and boaters to the Keys
from around the world.
Where
else in the world would you
see talented musicians playing a “Trom-
bonefish” or “Sea Flute”. These instruments
While you swim among colorful tropical are all created by the talented artist August
fish, you'll listen to a playlist featuring songs Powers, Florida’s own Aqua Artist. These
like the Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” instruments will definitely have you saying
and Jimmy Buffett’s “Fins.” Music “Shell Yeah!” Past fans of this Underwater
broadcast by the radio station is piped Music Festival have called it a “Real life
underwater via Lubell Laboratory speakers Finding Nemo”.
suspended beneath boats above the reef.
The audience, of course, enjoys the tunes
from underwater as well; since sound Even though many underwater concert
goers are drawn by the unique aquatic
travels 4.3 times faster in water than in air, experience, they also receive valuable
the sonic experience has been described as insights into preserving the Keys’ rich coral
particularly ethereal. For those who prefer reef ecosystem. The broadcast incorporates
the slower, standard fare, the playlist is also diver awareness announcements in order to
broadcast live on the local radio station, emphasize on ways to enjoy the reef while
WWUS 104.1 FM. Equipped with guitars, minimizing environmental impacts.
horns, drums and other musical
instruments, divers descend into the depths With the reef being destroyed, the marine
and play along to a playlist of water-inspired life will be affected and of course Florida’s
songs. If you wear a costume, you can fishery industry. There is also a large
compete for a prize for best-dressed tourism economy worth millions
underwater rock star. surrounding the reef with boating & diving
activities popular by many who wish to
Although Costumes aren’t a requirement, experience the beauty of the reef.
many guests choose to dress up, which The smallest touch by a diver or boats
makes the whole experience even more anchor can crush the coral reef leaving it
aquatic. With everything from Ariel the open to infection and diseases. In addition
Mermaid, to Nemo, Poseidon, Aqua Man, to pollution and climate change that cause
Sponge bob and even more! So be creative degradation of the coral and bleaching with
and have fun… it eventually becoming destroyed.
