Evolving technologies are prompting accelerated changes in the creative and performing industries. The Canadian Live Music Association's virtual Tech Live workshops in April and May 2024 will explore these changes and their implications in detail. Access to these...
Related News
Apply to Showcase at M for Montreal in November 2024
Artist submissions are now open for the 19th edition of M for Montreal, taking place from November 20-23, 2024. M for Montreal is a catalyst for the Quebec and Canadian music industry - both for Quebec-based emerging artists, and Canadian artists with a career outside...
Henry Armstrong Award open to Indigenous artists in the Canadian music industry
The Henry Armstrong Award is a bursary and mentorship program created to develop, elevate, and support Indigenous artists within the Canadian music industry. The award aims to provide unique opportunities for growth and development, culminating with the chosen act...
Seeking Industry Input For the Future of Amplify BC
On April 19, 2023, the Province of BC announced $22.5 million for Amplify BC, extending the Province’s music funding programs until 2027. This funding will build the province’s music talent and infrastructure, and strengthen the sector to better weather global shifts,...
Headbanging from Stage to Suplex in Armstrong: Live Music program funding enables local metal festival to thrive
In 2009, Jesse Valstar and Bretton Melanson were just two twentysomethings with an idea. 13 years later, they’re proudly known as the co-founders of Western Canada’s Armstrong Metal Fest.
When Valster returned from a European sojourn that included attendance at several festivals, it left him with a thirst for more. Around the same time, Melanson had a similar experience attending a weekend bush party that included a stage, camping, and other immersive elements. When they compared notes, it was clear they wanted to recreate this experience: ideally, in their own hometown of Armstrong, B.C.
In its first year, the event was successful, and felt like a big party: in its second year, attendance doubled. To keep pace, the festival needed a larger venue. After some deliberating, a decision was made in favor of the Hassen Memorial Arena, which allows for on-site camping, and is close to several amenities. The Arena welcomes children of all ages, with those under 10 receiving free admission. The site also features a family-friendly camping site, dubbed Atlantis, which allows for a more peaceful experience for families that attend. Support from Amplify BC’s Live Music program earlier this year has enabled this festival to refine its offerings to cultivate new audiences with confidence.
Metalheads from far and wide can expect this year’s festival (slated for July 15 – 16, 2022) to be packed full with talent, as Valstar noted. When we asked him which bands he’s most excited for, he reflected, and offered, “This is a tricky question. Seriously, I just took another look at the list; I can’t single any of them out. We did a good job this year!”
Alongside the festival’s roster of core artists, the Okanagan-based wrestling promotional company Thrash Wrestling will have their traditional ring outside of the arena. New for 2022, Valstar notes that a rumoured cage match may be on the books. Attendees are also encouraged to visit local wizard Drizzlb Tums, and join in on the Beer Helmet March: a special event that features personally-crafted beer case helmets. Alongside their propensities for refreshment, these helmets serve an added purpose: they can earn participants prizes and special giveaways.
The most-coveted prize? Two tickets to next year’s festival, of course!
Stay Connected
Subscribe to our newsletter for music industry news, funding program updates, and funding recipient stories.