In 2008, I had the opportunity to serve as project manager for the Calgary Host Committee when the city welcomed the Juno Awards for the first time. While the awards show itself was important, what struck me most was the broader impact music had on the city. Live performances energized streets and venues, visitors filled hotels and restaurants, and residents experienced their city in a new and exciting way. Music became a catalyst for both economic activity and civic pride.
That experience helped shape how I view culture in cities. When music is supported intentionally, it influences more than entertainment. It contributes to placemaking, strengthens community identity, and supports local businesses in meaningful ways. Cities that understand this treat music as part of their long term cultural and economic vision, not as a one-off activity.
Austin, Texas, is often held up as the gold standard. Its reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” did not develop overnight. Music became a defining feature of the city through consistent support for artists, venues and local businesses. That identity helped fuel tourism, attract talent and animate its downtown year-round. Visitors arrive for music, but stay for food, culture and the feeling of being somewhere distinct.
Closer to home, smaller Canadian cities offer equally relevant lessons. Kingston, Ont., has built a strong music reputation rooted in local talent and historic venues. Events like the Limestone City Blues Festival support downtown businesses and reinforce the city’s creative identity. Music there feels authentic and connected to place.
St. John’s, N.L., provides another powerful example. Its live-music culture is inseparable from the city’s character. Festivals and year-round performances on George Street help sustain the hospitality sector and enhance the visitor experience. Music in St. John’s tells stories, brings people together, and leaves visitors with a lasting sense of connection to the city.
Airdrie has many of these same ingredients. Award-winning country artists, a growing network of venues focused on live performance, and a community that values shared experiences all point to strong potential. These musical assets already contribute to local vibrancy and offer opportunities to support restaurants, breweries, hotels and retail businesses through increased visitation and foot traffic.
From a planning perspective, music also plays a role in shaping identity. Live performance creates gathering places, supports community connection, and helps define what a city feels like after hours and on weekends. Over time, this sense of place becomes an advantage for tourism, economic development and talent attraction.
As the province of Alberta moves forward with its Music Action Plan, Airdrie has an opportunity to think long term and integrate music into its cultural planning and placemaking efforts. When music is supported with intention, it helps a city grow its economy while staying true to itself. By strengthening venues, encouraging residents and visitors to experience live shows, and creating space for local artists to thrive, Airdrie is well positioned to build momentum and lasting impact.
Shauna Quinn is an economic development officer with the City of Airdrie.
