Music

Canadian Music

There is debate as to whether Canadian music really exists. Many Canadian commentators and academics refer to Canadian “musics”. Canada’s musical culture is a large “ensemble” of styles, inspirations and origins – representing the many cultural histories and communities of Canada. It encompasses the breadth of musical activity – writing, education, performance, production and marketing, as well as just people playing for their enjoyment.

The Canadian music scene is a rich mixture of folk, popular, spiritual and classical forms that range from Inuit throat games to classical concerts and world-renowned rock groups. The richness of Canadian music is also related to the compendium of Canadian musical works – a large number of works that have become international hits, and a large body of works that have not received the acclaim they deserve and that are now being unearthed and brought to the stage and to the studio.

It is difficult to argue with success. Canada has produced some of the most famous people in the business. Musicians like Glenn Gould, Bryan Adams, Céline Dion, kd lang, Avril Lavigne and Oscar Peterson are well known all over the world. Their success translates into a celebration of talent and achievement with music awards like the JUNOs, the Félix and the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards – not to mention international recognition with a continuous line-up of nominations and winnings against the best in all musical categories.

Canadian music is a continuum. It illuminates our history and provides insight into current times.