FUSE Create launches ‘Indie As F’ concert series to celebrate 20th anniversary.

The “Indie As F” showcase will take place on three separate dates this summer in FUSE Create’s new event space, located on the first floor of the Ossington office.

We are excited to announce our indie concert series featuring a lineup of talented local artists in celebration of their 20th anniversary. The “Indie As F” showcase will take place on three separate dates this summer in our new event space, located on the first floor of the Ossington office. The third date will feature local artists that apply via the company’s Instagram callout and receive mentorship through Canada’s Music Incubator (CMI), a Toronto-based organization specializing in professional development programs for artists, managers, and music companies.

After the success of FUSE’s first show in June with local musicians Sam Casey and J3M, and on the heels of our next concert in July featuring artists Burs and Kris Barclay, we are excited to officially welcome applications for artists to perform at the final show in August.

FUSE & CMI will choose two artists based on responses to the question “What does being independent mean to you?” Selected musicians will receive $1,000, along with three, 60-minute, one-on-one mentorship meetings with CMI professionals. These guided sessions will help identify their needs and set career goals. Apply here.

“We have found the one-on-one mentorship model is so helpful to artists,” says Kate Rogers, Programs Manager at CMI. “Each artist is unique and so are their needs, and these meetings allow us to take a personalized approach. From copyright to release strategies, we are here to help you navigate the music industry.”

This partnership reflects FUSE Create’s commitment to supporting independent artists and businesses. We worked with local brewer Northern Maverick Brewing Co. and Ossington business Downtown Winery to create custom indie-inspired libations for the concert series, featuring original artwork from Montreal-based artist Cam Harapiak. Each concert will also be commemorated on the backs of uniquely designed “Indie As F” t-shirt merch, courtesy of local purveyor The Baitshop.

“Over the past two decades, we’ve faced changes in the industry, shifts in consumer behaviours, and economic downturn,” says Garo Keresteci, one of FUSE Create’s founding partners. “As an independent agency, we understand the importance of supporting independent voices in all areas, and we’re proud to be doing our part to acknowledge the vibrant indie community here in the city.”

Deadline for artists to apply is August 1st, 2023. Follow FUSE on Instagram as well for coverage of all these shows 😉