Ottawa’s musicians back in the spotlight with the return of #ottmusik

_ (via City of Ottawa) _ The popular #ottmusik initiative is back and the City is looking for local bands and singers to submit an original piece of music that, if selected, would be heard by residents calling 3-1-1 for service when they are on hold.

“The response from residents and the music community to last year’s #ottmusik was incredible, and we wanted to recreate that enthusiasm for local music by relaunching the initiative in 2016,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “#ottmusik is an opportunity for Ottawa’s musicians to share their talent with a broader audience and it’s another way that the City can promote the local arts community.”

Musicians can submit music (instrumental or/and songs) in the language and style of their choice via ottawa.ca from January 11 to February 15. In March, residents will be able to see a list of all musicians who have applied on the website. A jury will then select the winning tracks. Once the selected songs have been compiled, they will be featured in a loop on the City’s telephone system.

“#ottmusik promotes the rich and diverse nature of Ottawa’s music scene by sharing these musical gems with residents who may not have had the opportunity to hear it otherwise,” said Councillor Diane Deans, Chair of the City’s Community and Protective Services Committee. “It’s an exciting opportunity for residents to enjoy some of the best music our city has to offer.”

Overview of the submission/selection process:

Interested artists can submit music, instrumental or with lyrics, in the language and style of their choice. All submissions will be reviewed by a committee of professional musicians and music-industry professionals from the Ottawa area who will recommend up to 25 songs for use on the telephone system. Once the selected songs have been compiled, they will be uploaded to the City’s telephone system for 12 months.

For more information, visit ottawa.ca/ottmusiken.