Canada’s music and technology industries are seeing a rise in virtual concert platforms. These platforms help artists connect with their fans in new ways as the entertainment world changes.
While live performances are coming back, people still want to enjoy music online. These platforms are changing how Canadians experience music by using new technology and creative methods.
One of the leading platforms is Sessions Live Canada. It was started in partnership with The Feldman Agency. Sessions Live allows musicians to stream live shows, and it helps them grow their fanbase and make money.
Artists can perform using mobile devices or setups from studios, using special technology to reach more listeners.
“This is about giving artists tools to succeed in a world that is mostly digital,” said Joel Baskin, Vice President of The Feldman Agency. He emphasizes how important this platform is for supporting Canada’s music community.
Another platform, Virtual Concert Halls, is known for high-quality livestreaming. It was created by musicians and tech experts and has hosted over 500 events since 2021, featuring symphony orchestras, indie artists, and solo performers.
Clients have praised its excellent audio and visual quality, calling it the “Harry Potter of virtual streaming” because of its smooth production.
A recent virtual concert for Canada Day in London, Ontario, showed how local venues are using these platforms to keep live music alive.
Virtual concerts have been around for a while, but they grew a lot during the pandemic. Other platforms like Eventbrite and Veeps also offer ticketing and streaming options for Canadian artists, catering to both virtual and hybrid events.
Eventbrite is known worldwide and offers affordable online concerts. For example, they had a $4.99, five-hour Canada Day concert in 2020. Veeps allows real-time chats and can be accessed via apps on Apple TV and Roku, attracting fans who love technology.
Many music fans are interested in immersive experiences, and platforms are trying out virtual reality (VR) and gaming features.
While big events like Fortnite’s virtual concerts with artists like Travis Scott have set a global standard, Canadian platforms focus on accessibility and supporting artists.
For example, Side Door, co-founded by Dan Mangan, helps musicians host virtual shows and has waived fees during difficult times to support the industry.
There are still challenges, such as funding for smaller platforms and making sure rural audiences have access. However, the demand is clear: a 2020 survey found that one-third of online Canadians watched a live music stream within a month, with 50% of those aged 18 to 29 participating.
As we move into 2025, Canada’s virtual concert platforms are ready to make an impact, mixing innovation with the country’s rich musical heritage.
