$45-Million Dollar Ontario Music Fund Announced

The new Ontario government has announced plans to create an Ontario Music Fund that will pour $45-million into the provincial music industry over the next three years. The announcement was made Wednesday, May 1st  2013 at Toronto music landmark Lee’s Palace by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Charles Sousa and the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Michael Chan. Various music industry professionals, musicians and music fans gathered for the press conference, which also hosted performances by friends of Metalworks, Courage My Love, and Royal Wood. Graham Henderson, President of Music Canada, represented Ontario’s music industry along with Metalworks Founder and Triumph drummer, Gil Moore. Ontario, home to Canada’s largest and one of the world’s most diverse music sectors, will benefit immensely from this newly announced, province-wide grant program. Expected to launch this fall, this initiative will support new digital production, record production, distribution of Canadian music, increased partnership opportunities, economic growth and ultimately, a more prosperous industry for all of Ontario and the global music marketplace.

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