Fla. divers tune in to music fest

07/14/2007 9:10 PM, AP


More than 500 scuba divers and snorkelers listened to a local radio station's four-hour broadcast Saturday, piped in beneath the sea in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Musical selections at the annual Underwater Music Festival included the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" and Jimmy Buffett's "Fins."

This year, two local musicians — singing in the station's studio — premiered songs, and opera was added to the program for the first time.

"We even played 'Songs of the Humpback Whale,'" said festival organizer Bill Becker. "But thankfully, no whales came."

Some divers wore costumes and imitated musicians including Elton John, Sammy Hagar and Sonny and Cher.

"I think it's totally unique," said Louise Trewavas, of London. "Not only do you have this amazing spectacle, you have all the fantastic fish that come to listen and take part in the festival."

The event at Looe Key reef also had a serious side. Public service announcements about coral reef preservation were played between musical selections.