Grant launched to support live music in Alberta

Grants of $1,500 will assist musicians and other live music professionals prepare for a return to live shows.

Grants of up to $25,000 for for-profit music venues will support innovative projects to help Alberta’s music industry adapt and relaunch.

Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women Leela Sharon Aheer said, “the live music industry is critical to our quality of life and our economic recovery, and we need to maintain the sector’s viability in these uncertain times in order to see future growth.”

“Once the province can reopen, there will be a pent-up demand for live music, and we need to make sure the live music industry can meet that demand. This investment will allow Albertans to safely enjoy live performances and ensure our amazing artists return to the stage stronger than ever.”

The province is partnering with Alberta Music, which will administer the grant. Applications can be submitted through the association’s website, starting May 17, until all funds are awarded.

Alberta Music’s executive director Carly Klassen said, “this grant is intended to alleviate some of the financial hardships faced by the music sector, which has essentially been unable to function for the last 12-plus months.”

“Musicians, music venues, sound engineers, producers and labels have all had their careers and businesses particularly hard hit by the pandemic. And while the road to recovery will be a long one, we hope that this initiative will be a shot in the arm for the industry, putting people back to work and money back in to the music economy.”

The $2 million for the program comes from the $15 million allocated to the Stabilize Program in Alberta’s Budget 2021.

by Justin Goulet

Grant launched to support live music in Alberta

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