Mark Your Calendars and Save the Date for Canada’s Live Music Awards!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON - January 21, 2026
The Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) is proud to announce the return of the Live Music Awards, presented in partnership with Departure, marking a renewed multi-year collaboration dedicated to celebrating Canada’s live music industry.
Hosted by Departure and the CLMA, the Live Music Awards will shine a spotlight on the ingenuity, perseverance, and excellence demonstrated across the live music ecosystem over the past year. From touring and production to venues, promoters, and service providers, the awards recognize the often-unseen work that makes live music possible in communities across the country.
“We’re very excited about the return of the Live Music Awards and our partnership with Departure,” said Erin Benjamin, President & CEO of the CLMA. “Together, we’re creating a national platform that celebrates the people and organizations whose work fuels live music in Canada, supports artists, and amplifies the sector’s vital cultural and economic impact.”
“Live music is central to what Departure champions,” said Kevin Barton, Executive Producer at Departure Festival + Conference. “Partnering with the Canadian Live Music Association on the Live Music Awards allows us to recognize the people and organizations who make live music possible across Canada, while spotlighting the innovation and collaboration that continue to drive the industry forward.”
The Live Music Awards will take place Wednesday, May 6 at the Bluma Appel Theatre, Toronto as part of Departure’s programming. Nominations and ticket sales open February 2, with exclusive discounts available to Departure passholders and members of the CLMA.
Through this partnership, CLMA and Departure aim to elevate the profile of Canada’s live music industry, celebrate its resilience and creativity, and honour the extraordinary work happening from coast to coast to coast—this year and for years to come.
For more information about the 2026 Live Music Awards, including categories, nominations, and tickets, visit here.
—
CONTACT:
Canadian Live Music Association
staff@canadianlivemusic.ca