Bebe Rexha to Accept the Global Hitmaker Award at Billboard Canada Women In Music 2026

Awards News

Calgary’s own composer and organist, Sarah Davachi, has received the prestigious Silver Lion at the Biennale Musica 2026 in Venice, awarded on October 12. This accolade recognizes her “lifetime body of work,” with judges highlighting her unique contributions to contemporary music. Davachi, now 39, has a diverse discography that features the 2024 release The Head as Form’d in the Crier’s Choir and her latest album, The Will of Tongues. Critics have noted her immersive approach to music, particularly her use of sustained tones, pipe organ, analog synthesizers, and electroacoustic methods, which create a distinctive artistic expression that unites contemporary classical music with experimental sound art and installation.

During the event in Venice, Davachi showcased her talent by performing the world premiere of her new composition, Chanters, commissioned by La Biennale, as well as a solo organ concert highlighting The Will of Tongues. Additionally, a companion piece titled Book of Carols, consisting of works created from 2023 to 2026 and performed by various artists including Ï Î, Ghost Ensemble, NO HAY BANDA, and Diapason, is set for release on November 6. To pre-order, click here.

Industry News

Billboard Canada recently reported that the Harris Institute in Toronto will conclude its operations in December after 37 years of impactful music industry education. Founder John Harris announced the closure, which has been met with disappointment from alumni and faculty alike on social media.

The institute has a distinguished history, with alumni earning top accolades such as Grammy and Juno awards. Notably, celebrated producer Henry Walter, known as Cirkut, was recognized as Producer of the Year at this year’s awards. Graduates have included significant figures from various genres, with esteemed instructors contributing to the program. In 2014, the Harris Institute was the only institution outside the U.S. included in Billboard’s list of “Top Music Business Schools.” For further details, read the 2018 Billboard Canada profile of John Harris.

CIMA has announced a call for applications for a business mission to Eurosonic 2027, taking place in Groningen, Netherlands, from January 13-16. This initiative includes a curated business day where Canadian participants will collaborate with market consultants to engage with key delegates and build relationships within the European music industry. An introductory session will be provided to help prepare attendees before the event. The deadline for applications is December 4; learn more about Eurosonic here.

The annual Folk Canada conference commenced on October 14, integrated with the Ontario Folk Music Awards. Taking place over three days, the conference features panels, keynotes, mentoring sessions, and the artist showcases that form the heart of Canada’s prominent roots music event. It was hosted in a bustling Sheraton in downtown Hamilton, filled with artists engaged in performances. Noteworthy showcases included beloved roots-rock band The Sadies, who presented a more acoustic version of their music, and emerging Indigenous artist JD Crosstown, who impressed with his blend of folk, country, and blues. The conference highlighted the rich diversity of styles within the folk genre and looks forward to returning to Hamilton next year.

Artists News

Acclaimed Ontario singer-songwriters Stephen Stanley, known for his work with The Lowest of the Low, and Jennifer Foster from The Pursuit of Happiness, are set to embark on a series of intimate performances across Ontario and Quebec starting November 5 at Clifford Brewery in Hamilton and concluding November 15 at Jimmy Joy’s in Port Stanley. This tour promises to showcase their latest work, with Foster promoting her recent album, Powerline, and Stanley introducing material from his upcoming project with his new all-acoustic group, NoElectric, featuring collaborators Jason Mercer, Michael O’Grady, and Chris Bennett.