Ontario Supporting Inaugural Global Music Festival

Province’s $635,000 investment helping kick off first-ever Promise of Music Festival, in partnership with the Glenn Gould Foundation

 The Ontario government is supporting tourism by investing $635,000 in the Promise of Music, the inaugural world congress on the social impact of music, presented by the Glenn Gould Foundation and taking place across the Greater Toronto Area next week. This investment will help protect and strengthen Ontario’s reputation as a global destination for arts and culture, while welcoming guests from around the world and boosting the local economy.

“The Promise of Music is a groundbreaking celebration of artistic excellence, honouring Canadian Glenn Gould’s legacy by showcasing the profound impact of the arts on individuals and communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “By supporting this world-class event, Ontario is protecting and supporting our dynamic tourism sector, connecting our province to the world and bringing people together through music.”

Taking place from October 6 to 10, this week-long festival will feature musicians, thought leaders, educators and artists from more than 20 countries. More than 50,000 guests will explore the positive impact of music and music education through performances, films, workshops and public discussions. To find out more about the festival, visit www.promiseofmusic.com.

The event will also feature the presentation of the 15th Glenn Gould Prize to Sir Elton John, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the global music landscape, as well as his commitment to humanitarianism and social advocacy.

"On behalf of The Glenn Gould Foundation, I wish to extend our gratitude to the Government of Ontario and Minister Cho for their critical support for the Promise of Music,” said Brian Levine, CEO, The Glenn Gould Foundation. “This recognition underscores the vital role music plays in shaping healthier, more inclusive, and more resilient communities across our province, Canada and around the globe.”

In 2024-25, the Ontario government invested nearly $200 million in the tourism sector through various funding programs, including over $27 million to support more than 250 festivals and events around the province.

Quick Facts

• Established in 1983, the Glenn Gould Foundation commemorates the life and career of Canadian pianist, composer and writer Glenn Gould (1932-1982) and is dedicated to promoting creativity and helping to transform lives through music and the arts.
• The Glenn Gould Prize – $100,000 – is awarded to an individual who advances the social good and positive impact of music. Each recipient must then select an exceptional young artist to receive the $25,000 Glenn Gould Protégé Prize.