Deadline: 25-Sep-2025
The Ontario Arts Council is inviting applications for its Music Production and Presentation Projects Grant Program. This initiative supports the development and presentation of live and virtual music across all genres by Ontario-based professional musicians, collectives, ad hoc groups, and organizations.
There are six funding categories under this program. These include rehearsal and repertoire development (including first-stage opera workshops), single performances or concerts, concert series, music festivals, opera productions, and second-stage opera workshops.
The program prioritizes activities that involve Ontario and Canadian professional musicians who are compensated appropriately. It also supports the work of local composers and songwriters, unless a specific genre limits this. Other priorities include promoting music development in Ontario, expanding the availability of music performances, and supporting original work through workshops and rehearsals. Additional goals include contributing to arts education, community engagement, and public participation.
The funding limits vary by applicant type. Individual musicians and programmers, as well as professional collectives and organizations, can apply for up to $20,000. Community and choral training groups can receive up to $5,000. Northern community orchestras may access up to $20,000, while other semi-professional orchestras can receive up to $15,000.
Eligible expenses include artistic fees, production costs, venue and equipment rentals, purchases of small-scale tools and software (up to $500), promotional and administrative costs, and audio/visual recording for virtual presentations or documentation purposes.
However, some expenses are not eligible. These include costs for activities outside Ontario, major capital purchases like buildings and large equipment, and the creation or composition of music. Fundraising events and performances with a majority of amateur performers are also ineligible, with limited exceptions for certain cultural or standard opera forms.
Eligible rehearsal and repertoire development projects must be intended for future public performances and can involve new material, concert programs, or opera workshops. Rehearsals may also prepare for recordings, but public or virtual performance opportunities must be included. For first-stage opera workshops, a complete draft of an act must exist before the application deadline, and public presentation is optional.
Eligible applicants include professional musicians, composers, and programmers residing in Ontario, as well as bands, ensembles, choirs, and other music collectives. Incorporated not-for-profit organizations that professionally produce concerts or festivals with a head office in Ontario are also eligible.
Ineligible applicants include educational institutions, municipalities, religious organizations, record labels, managers, and agencies. Also excluded are organizations already receiving operating grants from the Music Organizations: Operating program, and most volunteer-run music events not led by professional artists. Youth orchestras are ineligible as well.
All applicants must ensure their projects pay professional musicians. Most projects must also demonstrate a mix of revenue sources, except for rehearsal and repertoire development and second-stage opera workshops.
For more information, visit Ontario Arts Council.