The province has dedicated $22.5 million to the music industry over the next three years to support artists and businesses.
“At a time when our industry is still struggling, this is a vote of confidence in our recovery. Whether you are a touring artist, a sound engineer or a concert promoter, this is the news we all needed right now,” said Lindsay MacPherson, executive director of Music BC.
The province said the funds will support live music venues; development and adaption of music companies; training and skills development for artists and career development for emerging and established artists.
“Over the last year musicians have comforted us and inspired us. Now they need our support to come back stronger than ever,” said Melanie Mark, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport.
This funding is part of B.C.’s $10-billion COVID-19 response, which includes StrongerBC: BC’s Economic Recovery Plan to protect people’s health and livelihoods while supporting businesses and communities, the province said.
“Long-term funding is essential to the growth of the Indigenous music industry in British Columbia as Indigenous artists face additional barriers to success,” said Karen Aird, acting CEO, First Peoples’ Cultural Council. “As a result of this funding, we have seen Indigenous music professionals thrive and we are grateful to the province that with this certainty, we can continue to support these artists year after year.”
