Music Publishers Canada Names 2024 Women in the Studio National Accelerator Class

There's a gender imbalance behind-the-scenes of Canadian music, and Music Publishers Canada (MPC)'s Women in the Studio National Accelerator aims to address it.

Recently released statistics have confirmed the major gender gap in multiple facets of the Canadian music industry, and this is especially glaring in the field of music production.

The Women In The Studio program fosters professional growth and advancement of talented producer-songwriters from across Canada. MPC has announced all six participants for this year's program: Alysha Brilla from Toronto, Cat Hiltz from Vancouver, Charmie from Toronto, Jinting (Jinting Zhao) from Edmonton, JoJo Worthington from Montreal, and Samantha Selci from Toronto.

They're all accomplished up-and-coming artists and professionals in different ways, and bios for all 2024 participants are available here.

Now in its sixth year, the program offers participants a series of curated workshops, skills training and networking opportunities with music industry leaders. The goal is to equip them with skills and connections crucial for their advancement in the music industry.

The Accelerator will run virtually from June to December and will include creative collaborations and an in-person residency week in Toronto in August. The Accelerator focuses on topics including technical skills, financial literacy, music business skills and branding. Participants have also committed to exploring volunteer opportunities within their own communities.

Music Publishers Canada CEO Margaret McGuffin says that "with the help of our program partners and industry network, we are looking forward to breaking down some of the barriers that exist for this group of talented producers and give them the support they need to enter the next phase of their careers."

Meg Symsyk, President and CEO of FACTOR, states that “only 6% of the songs you hear are produced by women. FACTOR will continue funding the vital Women In The Studio program until this figure achieves parity."

Karen Thorne-Stone, President & Chief Executive Officer of Ontario Creates, notes that "empowering women in music production not only contributes to a more inclusive industry but also makes good business sense and ensures that Ontario remains a vibrant hub for musical talent and creativity. "

The Women in the Studio National Accelerator is presented by Music Publishers Canada, supported by RBC Foundation, FACTOR/Government of Canada and Ontario Creates and sponsored by Cassels and Compass Rose.