If there is one thing Canada has an abundance of its musical talent. From coast to coast music pours out of every seam, we use it to celebrate just about any occasion. So it comes as no surprise that when the birthday of our great country rolls around Canadians across the land burst out in song. Here are four of Ontario's must see music events celebrating Canada Day this year.
Canada's National Arts Centre has a full day of musical entertainment planned out for you beginning at 10 am with a 400-voice choir (featuring choristers from across Canada). The day continues on with performances by African drummers, orchestra's, and Elage (to name a few). Now we can not forget the kids! Here for their entertainment is Tante Caroline with plenty of songs and games to keep your children busy throughout the day. Tickets for these performances as well as the games are completely free.
Jazz more your style of music? All year round the Ottawa Jazz Festival is the host of amazing shows filled with incredible talent all for a great price. So it is no surprise that they would put on one hell of a show for Canada Day. Stalked full of incredible talent this years show is one you do not want to miss. Musical performances will include shows by Gysophila a Halifax group who's sound has been described as "a combination of hot jazz and European gypsy music, adding their own modern edge and fusing elements of tango, klezmer, funk, and classical in their own original music". Also performing is award winning Pianist Amanda Tosoff of White Rock British Columbia, Michael Kaeshammer, and Worst Pop Band Ever (not really but that's what they call themselves). Where else can you find these great talents along with many others on one stage all for free. Thank you Ottawa Jazz Festival for going above and beyond once again!
Of course we can not list Ottawa events without mentioning Parliament Hill. Besides a long list of other events being held here for Canada Day there is also a large list of musical entertainment lined up. This is definitely the place you want to be if you are looking for a more varied assortment of Canadian entertainment including the likes of Shane Yellowbird (known for his hit Pickup Truck), Sarah McLachlan, and rap artist K'Naan. Of course there will be plenty more artists from across Canada here to entertain you throughout the day as well. So if you are looking for a good mixture of jazz, country, pop and rock then this is the event you are looking for.
If you will be closer to the city of Toronto around this time then swing on over to Mel Lastman Square where The Abrams Brothers will be putting on a show. These guys are really a treat to see and with their great bluegrass/folk sound they have managed become the youngest group to appear on Grand Ole Opry. But the fun doesn't end with these talented young men, following their performance will be the well know Ontario band NQ Arbuckle. As always you can look forward to hearing some great alt-country tunes from this Juno nominated band. Make sure your stick around for the grand finale, an amazing display of fireworks are schedule to end this great night.
If you are not going to be in Ontario on July 1st this year don't panic, each and every Province and Territory in Canada will be celebrating this great day. Just follow the sound of the guitars to find your way to an event near you (or check out a local newspaper).
