Galaxie Rising Stars Program

A program committed to the development of Canadian music!

Galaxie is committed to putting Canadian musicians on the map! Galaxie knows music, and as such, we know that some of the greatest talent out there is found in our own backyard. That is why we created the Galaxie Rising Stars Program. Launched in 1998, this original program sets out to discover, encourage, promote and champion new up-and-coming Canadian artists. To that end, Galaxie has partnered with numerous industry organisations and regional festivals to offer cash awards and provide showcase opportunities to great new Canadian talent of all genres.

With our unique approach, we're furthering our mandate to assist in the development of music in Canada. "New artists need exposure to break into the marketplace," says Louis Bellavance, Head Programmer at Galaxie and co-administrator Galaxie Rising Stars Program. "We consider our responsibility to foster new talent as mission, not as an obligation."

Eligibility

To be eligible to a nomination by the Galaxie Rising Stars Program, the participant must be a new artist on the Canadian music scene. A "new artist on the Canadian music scene" is defined as an individual or group of Canadian origin, or with landed-immigrant status, residing in Canada. Eligible candidates are not required to already have recorded their work, but must have plans to do so in the near future.

Distribution of awards

The distribution of cash prizes is the "exclusive" responsibility of the Partners of the Galaxie Rising Stars Program. Rising Stars Partners are also responsible for appointing the selection jury that will award the prizes. Galaxie is in no way involved in the process of selecting Rising Stars nominees or winners, or in the appointment of jury members. However, one member from Galaxie may sit on the selection jury if invited to do so by the Partners.

Prizes

Rising Stars cash awards vary in amount and are intended primarily to assist the winners in promoting their music in the Canadian and/or foreign marketplace. In the case of Rising Stars winners whose music has been recorded and is available in digital format, they may receive national airplay on one or more of Galaxie's music channels. Additionally, to further support award winners, Rising Stars recipients are featured and promoted in Galaxie's promotional material.

Rising Stars Partners

To qualify as a Rising Stars Partner, organizations must be recognized by the Canadian music industry. These Partners must show an interest in developing and promoting up-and-coming Canadian talent. The partnership is made at Galaxie's own discretion.