The Emerging Musicians Program is a new (2018) initiative replacing the Street Performers Program by capitalizing on the successful track record of the program launching musical careers.
In partnership with the Downtown Barrie Business Association and Ontario Musicians Cooperative, Inc. this program supports downtown revitalization efforts by creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere in the city's core while harnessing the downtown community as a platform to incubate and showcase emerging musicians. See program details.
Barrie Auditions
Auditions took place on March 7th and our partners at the Ontario Musicians Cooperative, Inc. are following up with selected musicians.
Street performances (busking) in downtown Barrie begin in June. Please check back in May for artist announcements and schedules.
Please visit www.ontariomusicians.com or contact Amanda.Dyke@barrie.ca to learn more about this year's program.
Looking to book one of our Emerging Musicians? Feel free to contact Amanda.Dyke@barrie.ca with your preference, budget or needs and our team can connect you with the artists.
No cash for a tip? One of the challenges faced by street performers today is that many people don't carry cash, which can present barriers to audiences who want to tip performers. Tip with PIVX.
2018 Emerging Musicians
Tip with PIVX
One of the challenges faced by street performers today is that many people don't carry cash, which can present barriers to audiences who want to tip performers. To reduce these barriers, the Emerging Musicians Program has partnered with local technology innovators on a pilot project that allows people to tip musicians digitally using the cryptocurrency PIVX, a form of digital online money. Those wishing to tip using PIVX can scan a QR code displayed on signs carried by each musician. For more information on PIVX including how to download and use their virtual wallet, visit PIVX.org.
Schedule
The 2018 Emerging Musicians performed at various locations in the downtown core from June to September at the following times:
| Tuesday to Thursday |
6–9pm |
| Fridays |
12–2pm & 6–9pm |
| Saturdays |
12-9pm |
| Sundays |
12–6pm |
Program Details
The audition booking process for 2019 is now open. Each year auditions take place through a jury process with musicians being issued annual permits to perform downtown during scheduled shifts from June to September. Committed artists receive gratuities from the public, paid gig and training opportunities and increased marketing support. Marketing and promotion to support the artists and program includes:
- Musician profiles on website with links to social media
- Digital signage/ads in City of Barrie facilities
- Custom light-weight A-frame signage for each musician to display
- Opportunity to perform at City of Barrie and BIA events
- Musician profiles shared via City of Barrie social media
- Musician performance locations & schedule shared on signage in downtown Barrie
- Opportunity to have a song included on Barrie’s Emerging Musicians compilation record