Last week’s cover story (Minor Threat, February 24-March 2) about the state of the all-ages scene in Toronto has gotten some fast and encouraging results.
All week, we’ve heard from promoters and bands who want to make the scene stronger and better, while others have tipped us off to some exciting all-ages events currently underway.
Here’s a quick and dirty list of some new opportunities and upcoming events:
For bands
Parts & Labour’s booker Mark Pesci announced plans last Thursday (February 24) to launch a Sunday all-ages series at the Shop at Parts & Labour (1566 Queen West). Bands and promoters should get in touch at play@partsandlabour.ca.
Marco Mondano, who books for DC Music Theatre (360 Munster, Etobicoke), sent us an email stating that the story inspired him and partner Domenic Curro to launch a free all-ages series on Sundays starting in April. Stay tuned for more details. And to get your band on one of the already announced all-ages shows (The Idea of March on March 25, the Metal as F#$% Fest on March 26 and April 15, DC Music Urban Nights with Guinevere on April 8), contact concerts@dcmusic.ca.
Marc Gold from Gold Soundz, a Toronto blog and concert promotion company, got in touch to say that the story “inspired me to get back into the all-ages scene where I started.” He plans to start throwing all-ages shows through Gold Soundz in the near future, and can be contacted at marc@goldsoundzblog.com.
The All-ages Movement Project, a community-driven coalition of 200 organizations that helps young people access and participate in their local music community, weighed in on the subject by reminding us of their book, In Every Town: An All-Ages Music Manualfesto. It’s full of tips, research and resources for young bands and promoters, and can be purchased at allages.net and akpress.org.
For fans
This year’s Canadian Music Week includes a hefty dose of all-ages programming thanks to the Live Near Bellwoods: CMW Daytime Living Room Sessions. From 2-6 pm Thursday to Saturday (March 10-12), kids can check out 18 of Canada’s best indie bands, including Olenka & the Autumn Lovers, Allie Hughes, Pick A Piper and the Wilderness of Manitoba. Sets will be stripped-down and intimate at the tiny Toronto Institute for the Enjoyment of Music (821 Queen West). Free, no wristbands required. Get there early!
No Apathy! Toronto throws occasional DIY, all-ages shows with the goal of providing a safe environment free from homophobia, transphobia, sexism and racism. The next one happens Saturday (March 12) from 6-10 pm at Beit Zatoun (612 Markham), featuring Mistake Makers (sincere pop-punk from Halifax), Young Feathers (social justice folk jams), the Holy Gasp (minimalist anarchist songs), plus zines, activist info tables and vegan baked goods. $5 suggested donation.
Buzz Records throws garage/punk all-ages shows at the Garage (73 Cecil), the Chinatown garage mentioned in the cover story. March 19 includes Razor Fade and Noose March 25 includes Ell V Gore, Grande Trine, Tropics and the Peelies April 6 includes White Lung, Total Babes, Act Casual April 15 includes Night Brides and Total Trash and May 6 includes Holy Mount and Dentata. All shows $5.
NOW is opening its Lounge (189 Church) to underagers for the No Shame All-Ages show on March 26. So far, bands include Ruby Coast, Modern Superstitions, Army Girls and more to be announced shortly.
Additional all-ages shows can be found at our listings page.
