WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT 2026 LIVE MUSIC AWARDS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Toronto, ON - May 6, 2026
The Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) and Departure congratulate the newly announced winners of the 2026 Live Music Awards.
The Live Music Awards are a night of celebration and recognition of the live music companies, individuals, and organizations that define our industry. The evening was hosted by Angeline Tetteh-Wayoe, host of CBC Music's The Block, and comedian Ali Hassan, with Deryck Whibley of Sum 41 as a presenter. The event took place on May 6th as part of Departure Festival and Conference, presented by TD, and featured performances from Alicia Creti, Cam Kahin, and Shawnee Kish.
The awards also honoured individuals who have influenced live music culture, strengthened industry infrastructure, and left a lasting imprint through careers defined by vision, innovation, and impact on future generations. Congratulations to Kevin Lyman (Global Impact in Live Music), Erin Benjamin (Global Live Music Leadership Award), and Patti-Anne Tarlton (Live Legacy Award).
“The CLMA is honoured to celebrate these incredible individuals and organizations who make live music happen from coast to coast to coast. The work you do enriches lives and builds communities in three dimensions. Nothing can replace that. Thank you all for the work you do,” said Maddy Oliver, Interim Executive Director.
“Celebrating the passion and dedication of the people who make Canada’s live music industry so respected around the world was a true privilege," said Kevin Barton, Executive Producer at Departure Festival + Conference. "The night reflected exactly what they bring to audiences, joyful, live experiences and unforgettable moments. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners.”
Winners of the 2026 Live Music Awards
Agent of the Year - Nick Storch
Concert/Club Talent Buyer of the Year - Rodrigo Fritz
Festival Talent Buyer of the Year - Chris Frayer
Manager of the Year - Jude Coombe
Promoting Team of the Year - Whitecap Entertainment
Your Future Boss - Aven Hoffarth
Music City of the Year - City of Calgary
Live Performance of the Year - Sum 41: Tour of the Setting Sum, Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON January 30, 2025
Tour Manager of the Year - Brendan Kennedy
A/V Supplier of the Year - Stageline
Production Manager of the Year - Brad Ferguson
Best Teamwork in a Small Club - The Drake Hotel
Best Teamwork in a Medium Club - Biltmore Theatre
Best Teamwork in a Major Club - Commodore Ballroom
Best Teamwork in a Small Arena - Scotiabank Centre
Best Teamwork in a Large Arena or Stadium - Scotiabank Arena
Best Teamwork in a Soft Seat Theatre/Performing Arts Centre - Massey Hall
Small Festival of the Year - Folk on the Rocks
Medium Festival of the Year - Mariposa Folk Festival
Major Festival of the Year - Osheaga Festival Musique et Arts
Innovation in Live Music - Listening Room
Sustainability in Live - Hillside Festival
Philanthropic Live Event of the Year - JIM CUDDY AND FRIENDS: A Night of Country Classics Benefitting The Daily Bread Food Bank
Brand x Music Program of the Year - CBC Music Presents: Live at Massey Hall
Global Impact in Live Music - Kevin Lyman
Global Live Music Leadership Award - Erin Benjamin
Live Legacy Award - Patti-Anne Tarlton
The CLMA continues to drive advocacy, research, and sector development, and to promote the economic, social, and cultural impact of Canada’s live music industry across the country. To learn more about the CLMA, visit canadianlivemusic.ca.
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CONTACT:
Canadian Live Music Association
staff@canadianlivemusic.ca