Back by popular demand, #ottmusik is on the line again

_ (press release) _ The latest 25 artists selected for the #ottmusik program received high praise today at City Hall from Mayor Jim Watson and Councillor Diane Deans, Chair of the City’s Community and Protective Services Committee.

The program, which was launched in 2015, is a platform for local musicians to introduce and share their work with a wider audience. The songs of 25 Ottawa-area artists were selected for use as hold music for callers to 3-1-1. The songs of another 25 artists have now been installed to provide fresh hold music for the next year.

A complete list of the artists, with background information on each, can be found on ottawa.ca . Two of the artists – Mehdi Cayenne and Amanda Lowe - performed at a free concert today at City Hall.

“When we first introduced #ottmusik, the response we received was overwhelmingly positive, and that enthusiasm continues with the latest group of musicians,” said Mayor Watson. “Clearly, the program is upbeat, strikes a chord with residents and is in tune with the City’s efforts to promote local musicians.”

One change to the program this year has the music of all 25 artists included on one continuous playlist. The City received 93 submissions after its call to artists in January.

“The quality of the music is so impressive that 3-1-1 operators will need to apologize for prompt service that prevents callers from listening longer,” joked Councillor Deans. “Thanks, to the many musicians who submitted their work for consideration, and congratulations to those who were selected.”

Of course, you don’t have to wait until you are put on hold to hear the music. All songs are right here on ottawa.ca. For further updates on #ottmusik, follow the City on Twitter @ottawacity , like the City of Ottawa on Facebook , or visit ottawa.ca .