Spencer Shewen Joins Hamilton Live Music Company Noisemaker as Programming Manager

Hamilton-based concert promotion and artist management company Noisemaker has announced the hiring of Spencer Shewen as programming manager of its live division, Noisemaker Presents.

In this new role, Shewen will join president Tim Des Islets in overseeing artist booking, programming strategy and event development. Working closely with artists, agents, managers and venue partners, he will help shape the company’s creative vision while supporting the company’s artist-first, community-driven approach to live events.

“We are thrilled to have Spencer Shewen join our team,” says Tim Des Islets. “Spencer’s love of music, dedication to supporting artists, and strategic approach to curation inspire us as we continue to expand our live offerings in Canada.”

Shewen previously served as the creative director of Riverfest Elora from 2014 until November 2025, when the festival shut down after 15 years, citing financial challenges.

In late 2023,, Shewen took on the role of artistic director of the Mariposa Folk Festival, which he will continue alongside his work with Noisemaker. The legendary Ontario festival has had a turbulent history, and he's credited with helping it expand its scope during the last two successful editions.

The creation of this new role comes as Noisemaker Presents continues to expand its concert and event programming. Founded in 2017 by Des Islets, Noisemaker Presents produces live music events throughout Ontario and beyond, including Paris Drinks Fest, Music in the Garden Concert Series at The Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, the Paris Concert Series and a range of concerts across Canada.

That includes upcoming shows in Hamilton, London, Peterborough and Paris, Ontario, by such artist as Sloan, Royal Wood, Matt Andersen, Whitehorse, Great Lake Swimmers, Donovan Woods, Rose Cousins and more. Its annual winter concert series in Paris has featured such artists as Ron Sexsmith, Tim Baker, Hawksley Workman, Skydiggers and many more.

Noisemaker also operates a full-service artist management division, with a current roster that includes Great Lake Swimmers, The East Pointers, The Once, Gord Sinclair of The Tragically Hip, Splash’N Boots and Two Hours Traffic.

“I’m beyond thrilled to be joining the team at Noisemaker,” Shewen says. “Their commitment to supporting and developing artists, creating magical moments, and doing everything with integrity truly stands out, and I’m proud to contribute to that philosophy."

Shewen has previously served on the board of directors for River and Sky Festival in Sudbury, the Elora Centre for the Arts, Halifax Pop Explosion and Hillside Festival. His past work also includes serving as artistic director for Waterstock, curating the Fortnight Music series and working as Label Manager for SunnyLane Records.