Provincial government planning online concert to support BC musicians

Apr 11 2020, 11:45 pm

With the closure of clubs, bars, and other live music performance venues across the province as the coronavirus pandemic continues, the BC government has announced that those looking for their concert fix will be able to enjoy more music at home, thanks to a new partnership between the BC government and Creative BC.

Music has the power to lift us up and give us hope in times of crisis,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “B.C.’s music industry responded swiftly by embracing opportunities to livestream and bring people together online. Today, we’re stepping up to support their efforts.”

As a first step to support the music industry, the province said it is partnering with Creative BC to launch Showcase BC. This new online hub brings a variety of live performances, entertainment and content to British Columbians, so they can stay connected while staying home.

To help BC musicians take part in Showcase BC, Creative BC has also opened a new Showcase BC music funding stream.

This new program will provide one-time micro-grants of $500 to emerging artists and $2,000 to established artists for livestreaming, songwriting and professional development. Creative BC will offer grants to all previously eligible Amplify BC applicants.

“This program is designed as a quick response by Creative BC to the immediate needs of artists across the province’s music industry,” said the CEO of Creative BC, Prem Gill, in a press release.

“It helps them create, stream and generate revenue, with Showcase BC bringing all of that dynamic content direct to our homes while we do our part to stay home, safe and connected.”

British Columbians can access all the grant performances for free through the Showcase BC website and get information on new livestream events by following the hashtag #ShowcaseBC on Twitter.

To bring people together, the Province said will host a free livestream concert next week featuring musicians from around British Columbia. People will be able to join in and watch the concert online.

The concert lineup is expected to be announced soon.

Alyssa TherrienAlyssa Therrien

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