Explore and share your favourites in the next phase of #ottmusik

Ottawa-area musicians have made their contributions to #ottmusik, and now it’s time for Ottawa music fans to do the same. Soon, anyone who is put on hold after dialing the City of Ottawa will hear local music while they wait.

Between December 4 and January 12, 217 Ottawa-area artists submitted music samples for consideration in this new initiative. Ottawa residents are now encouraged to explore the websites provided by the artists and support their favourites on Twitter.

“I’m thrilled at the response from Ottawa’s music community to this unique initiative,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “Thanks to #ottmusik, we have a new platform for local musicians to introduce and share their music with a wider audience.”

“With #ottmusik, the City of Ottawa is furthering its commitment to providing new opportunities to Ottawa’s cultural community,” said Councillor Diane Deans, Chair of the City’s Community and Protective Services Committee. “At the same time, we are able to offer residents an enhanced and unique experience when calling the City.” ** How it works ** A full list of the musicians who submitted their work is available on ottawa.ca . Residents are encouraged to

explore the artists’ websites and discover the wonderful musical talent the city boasts. Then, share your favourites through Twitter using the #ottmusik hashtag.

Public feedback received by February 25, 2015 will be shared with the selection committee.

All submissions will be reviewed by a committee of select professional musicians from the Ottawa-area, who will recommend up to 25 songs for use on the City phone systems. Stay tuned for this announcement in the coming months.

Once the selected songs have been compiled, five to seven new songs will be showcased every three months through the City’s phone systems.

For more information, visit ottawa.ca/ottmusiken .

For further updates on this unique program, visit ottawa.ca , or follow the City on Twitter @ottawacity , on Instagram @cityofottawa , or like the City of Ottawa on Facebook .