Music

Toronto is the largest centre for music in Canada – the artists who create music are a vital part of Toronto’s culture. Music is also an important economic driver for the city. Toronto’s music scene attracts visitors and artists alike, engaging with film, television, fashion, food, and interactive media. Home to major and independent record labels, music festivals, event promoters, hundreds of recording studios and live music venues, and a wealth of talented performers across multiple genres, the city’s cultural diversity and talent pool drives Toronto’s success in the music industry.

The City of Toronto’s Music Office (a unit of Film & Entertainment Industries, Economic Development and Culture) exists to nurture the city’s music community through policy, recommendations, and advocacy.

Fast Facts

• The live music sector generates an estimated $455 million in revenues and contributes $252 million to the Canadian economy.
• Overall, the Canadian live music market has grown at an annual average rate of 6.4 per cent since 2010. Ontario’s live music sector generates 80 per cent of total national revenues, up from 65 per cent in 2005.
• An economic impact study commissioned by Music Canada determined that the Canadian recording industry (including both foreign-owned and independent, Canadian-owned companies) had a total economic impact output of $400 million in 2010.
• About 80 per cent of recording industry expenditure in Canada is in the Toronto region.

More information is available via the Toronto Music Strategy PDF.