Ontario’s live music venues have long served as dynamic community centres, economic catalysts, and cultural enclaves. These integral hubs of our music ecosystem contribute considerably to the province’s rich cultural fabric. Yet, this ecosystem is at a critical juncture. Musicians, presenters, and venue owners/operators face increasing difficulties in realizing the true value they generate, which stifles the growth and diversification of this sector.
In this report, Professor Dan Silver of UTSC Department of Sociology and School of Cities, and Jonathan Bunce of Wavelength Music Arts Projects propose a path towards new models of conservation and innovation for Ontario's live music spaces.