Dear Editor,

            Remember the time when you could download your favorite song and share it on your computer for others to enjoy?  Those times are long gone as restrictions are placed on internet file sharing and the downloading of music from the internet.

            These restrictions place a definite limit on our liberty to share information with others. Many people feel that these restrictions are necessary in order to increase revenues that go to the music artist.

            Industry experts say that record sales have decreased over the years since the invention of CD-burner and mp3 player technologies. Even though statistics show sales decreases, music artists must realize that the sharing of music increases the exposure of their music to individuals who never would have listened to their music otherwise.

            I would not know of some bands if it were not for the sharing of music. If you really enjoy the artist, you will be inclined to purchase their CD or attend a concert which will make up for the revenue lost when you burned their CD or downloaded their song.

            The music industry should embrace technology. Despite their efforts to stop piracy; as long as there is a demand for free music there will always be someone out there with a way to supply it.

Andy Ferrante ‘03