Music Canada Congratulates Toronto's Executive Committee on Support of Toronto's Music Cluster

TORONTO, Jan. 11, 2013 /CNW/ - Music Canada congratulates Mayor Rob Ford and the Executive Committee Members for their forward-thinking decision to approve a multi-year funding strategy which will increase the per capita funding of arts and culture; prioritize key initiatives including support for Toronto's music cluster; and implement the Creative Capital Gains Report.

"This decision will lead to a stronger economic future for the City of Toronto," says Graham Henderson, President of Music Canada.  "It is through the leadership of Mayor Rob Ford, Councillor Gary Crawford who framed the motion, as well as all members, past and present, of the Executive and Economic Development Committees, that we will succeed in leveraging Toronto's vibrant music cluster in order to stimulate employment, develop Toronto's international brand as a music city, and attract further investment.  We have developed a music strategy where everybody wins and are thrilled to have overwhelming support at City Hall."

Among the recommendations in the Creative Capital Gains report was to develop a strategy to promote and foster Toronto's music cluster.  In February 2012 Music Canada presented research to support this initiative to the Economic Development Committee which passed a motion instructing staff to work with Music Canada and other music industry representatives to develop a plan.

"The progress made today would not have been possible without the enlightened decision-making by Economic Development Committee Chair Michael Thompson and Councillors Josh Colle and Shelley Carroll, as well as the bold initiative taken by Councillor Mike Layton who seized on the music opportunity created by the Creative Capital Gains report.  This is an exciting step forward and we look forward to the support of City Council next week," says Henderson.

Music Canada is a non-profit trade organization that represents the major record companies in Canada, namely Sony Music Entertainment Canada, Universal Music Canada and Warner Music Canada.  Music Canada also works with some of the leading independent record labels and distributors, recording studios, live music venues, concert promoters, managers and artists in the promotion and development of the music cluster.

SOURCE: Music Canada

Amy Terrill - Vice President Public Affairs, Music Canada
[email protected]  647-963-6044