$45-Millon Dollar Ontario Music Fund Announced

Lees Palace in Toronto was awake this morning at 9am as various music industry professionals, musicians, and music fans gathered for a press conference. President of Music Canada; Graham Henderson was joined by the Honourable Minister Of Finance Charles Sousa and the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Michael Chan for an important and exciting announcement.

Minister Sousa publicized a plan to create the Ontario Music Fund which would give 45 million dollars to the music industry. The provincewide grant program would support new digital and record production and distribution of Canadian music, increase partnership opportunities, and promote Ontario's music industry in Canada and around the globe. It would also help the industry innovate, invest and take advantage of opportunities in the global music marketplace, bringing more business to Ontario. Providing the music industry with necessary support is part of the government's plan to help Ontario's music artists and industry innovators succeed for a more prosperous and fair Ontario.

The conference included a speech from Metalworks Group CEO; Gil Moore and live performance by a Metalworks favourite, Courage My Love and Royal Wood. See the official press release here and video below.

On behalf of our 85 employees at Metalworks, I congratulate the Government of Ontario for its commitment to enhance the province's vibrant music scene. As a result of today's announcement, not only will the music industry get a much-needed shot in the arm; but also, the 220 students currently enrolled at Metalworks Institute will be more likely to enjoy successful careers in the industry that I have been fortunate enough to call my own since my days performing with Triumph. Today is a landmark day for music in Ontario. Gil Moore