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ALBERTA MUSIC CITIES CONVENTION 2026

October 2026 · Calgary, Alberta

Welcome to the Future of Music Cities in Western Canada

"Celebrating a decade of Alberta’s music advocacy - and shaping the next"

MUSIC IS A SIGNAL OF CHANGE, CREATIVITY & RESILIENCE IN CITIES 

In the past 10 years, Alberta has been on a journey to become a leading emerging voice in music cities movement in Western Canada and the world. 

Home to renowned music festivals, artists, creators, producers, artist-friendly radio/platforms, Canada’s National Music Centre, Winspear Centre for Music, acclaimed music schools, music associations, live-music venues, and some of Canada’s most iconic music hall of famers, the province’s music legacy and ecosystem runs deep.
 

But Alberta is more than history and an existing vibrant music community—it’s a province and place in transformation. As Canada’s energy capital diversifies and continues to grow, music has become a signal of change, creativity, and cultural resilience.

WHY CALGARY, ALBERTA?

Calgary is the fastest-growing city in Canada, and it’s reimagining what it means to be a music city through some projects that have redefined the local music ecosystem:

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STUDIO BELL, HOME OF THE NATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE

Canada’s premier institution for preserving and celebrating the nation’s music history, home to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.

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CALGARY STAMPEDE

Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” this world-famous festival blends music, rodeo, and culture, drawing over a million visitors each year and showcasing Calgary’s global appeal.

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MUSIC MILE

A groundbreaking placemaking project taking place around the MoKinston's area, nearby where the city’s new Hockey/Live Music Arena is set to be built.

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WEST ANTHEM

Alberta’s leading music advocacy nonprofit, building awareness and capacity around music policy, artist support, and music tourism for over a decade.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CONVENTION

The Alberta Music Cities Convention is a place that will gather delegates working at the forefront of music city topics from all around the world. 

Over 3 days you’ll be able to engage in insightful discussions, and network with peers from 25+ different countries, and:

Learn how to design effective music policy that empowers venues and artists

Gain skills to fundraise for music projects and grow sustainable initiatives

Discover tools for music tourism to attract visitors and investment

Connect with global leaders and local pioneers shaping the future of music cities

This is more than an event—it’s the celebration of a 10 year journey to position Alberta as the leading music region in Western Canada, and to showcase the possibilities lying ahead as the city keeps strengthening its music ecosystem.

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EXPLORE THE MUSIC CITIES CONVENTION EXPERIENCE

DISCOVER ALBERTA’S MUSIC LEGACY AND MOMENTUM

Alberta’s music heritage spans millennia—from traditional Indigenous pow pow and Métis fiddle styles to global icons like k.d.lang, Tegan and Sara, and Corb Lund. Today, its live scene is world-renowned, with festivals like Calgary Stampede and the Calgary, Canmore, and Edmonton Folk Music Festivals, Music in the Badlands, and Country-Thunder drawing tens of thousands each year.

Martina Brunner, Executive Director - Vienna Club Commission

"What I found very interesting is connecting with the people from around the world trying to find solutions for the same challenges and really liked the panel on urban planning, how we can think about music venues, artists and city development together."

SPONSORSHIPS AND PARTNERS

Curious about how our event can elevate your organisation and connect you with potential clients and partners?

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JOIN THE WAITLIST: GET EXCLUSIVE INFO AND DISCOUNTS FOR THE CONVENTION

Make sure to be part of the Alberta Music Cities Convention in October 2026.

Sign up to the waiting list now to:​

  • Secure early access to discounted tickets

  • Receive all event updates directly

  • Be part of the community shaping the future of music in Alberta

HOST PARTNERS

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SUPPORTING PARTNERS

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Do you have any other questions regarding the Alberta Music Cities Convention, or want to sponsor? Contact Pablo at pablo@sounddiplomacy.com to learn everything related to the event's programme and activities.

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