2023/24 Program

The RBC Golden Ticket Program is Designed for six emerging artists annually, the program is open to artists (solo or band) from any genre who have demonstrated commitment to their craft and a strong desire for industry advancement.

The program is focused on live performance artists who plan to tour. Music PEI has other events for songwriters and composers and is developing programs for artists who do not tour.

Golden Ticket Program Application Deadline
September 15th, 2023 (5:00 PM AT)
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Golden Ticket Program Application Deadline
September 15th, 2023 (5:00 PM AT)
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Highlights of this multi-faceted program are:

#1: Short-Term Business Plan

Develop a short-term business plan made up of a series of goals the artist can achieve. This can include:

  1. Writing, recording and releasing music
  2. Applying for relevant funding
  3. Showcase opportunities
  4. Securing radio play
  5. Developing multiple revenue streams

#2: Produced Single

Work with a Producer to record one original track at a professional studio. This process will include:

  1. Pre-production: working with the producer in advance of the recording to potentially arrange and co-write, select the instrumentation, record demos finalising the song.
  2. Tracking: Recording the song in the studio.
  3. Mixing: multi-tracking requires working with the producer and recording engineer to “mix” the tracks together.
  4. Mastering: This is the final process of recording.

#3: Release Single

Once the recording is complete, the artist will work with the program to “release” the single. This will include:

  1. Developing a marketing plan:
    1. Create budget
    2. Select marketing firm
    3. Set release date
    4. Develop release theme
    5. Secure marketing platforms- Facebook, CBC2, Exclaim Magazine, blog reviews, various other online platforms
    6. Working with a graphic designer for promo material
  2. Create a lyric video
  3. Executing the single release

#4: Register Single

Register the song with all the various PRO’s (Performance Rights Organisations) in order to maximise royalties.

Other areas the program will cover include:

#5: Performance Coaching

An important element for live performing artists is developing a compelling stage show.

#6: Grant Writing

An important tool in an artist’s toolbox. It is possible to hire a contractor to write grants but it is important to be knowledgeable about what goes into a successful grant application, how to identify the appropriate grant sources and have an overall understanding of the process. In some cases (FACTOR) this requires a pre-registration to develop the artist profile. The artist will work closely with the program to develop one grant application.

#7: Creating Band Agreements

If the artist is a band, it is crucial and an area that many young bands forget or do not understand. It can have a tremendous impact if members decide to leave, how to split up revenues, paying taxes, etc.

#8: Financial Management

Advice on registering as a business, setting up dedicated bank accounts or registering for HST are areas that all artists should be aware of and the program will provide an introduction to these topics.

PROGRAM MENTOR

As a member of PEI’s Paper Lions, Colin Buchanan has been creating music professionally since the age of 18. Relentlessly touring the continent with his childhood friends and bandmates has shaped who he is today and has given him a world class education in all things music.

Falling in love with the studio early in his career, there was no doubt it was where he would find his home years later. A multi-instrumentalist , he enters every session with a deep understanding for songwriting and pop arrangement. Having worked alongside such industry heavyweights as Andrew Maurey (Lizzo, Shawn Mendes), Howard Reddekopp (Tegan and Sara, New Pornographers) and Dan Weston (Shad, Attack In Black) he has learned much in his time behind the desk. A recent trip to France to study at Studio La Fabrique with Gregg Wells (Adele, Keith Urban, One Republic) has further inspired the young producer to keep pushing himself to create better music.

Besides working with bands and solo artists, the past year has seen a foray into TV and film, with composition/producer credits for a national Telus campaign as well as spots for Furrow Creative (PEI Lobster, PEI Potatoes and Tourism PEI).

GOLDEN TICKET ALUMNI PLAYLIST

Selection Process

Successful applicants will be selected by a jury based on their previous success, ability and commitment. Each selected artist will be given 4 months to complete the program and will work with a series of contractors selected by Music PEI to deliver each component.

Colin Buchanan (Paper Lions) has been hired to manage the program and deliver some of the business services and performance coaching. Studios, Producers and PR firms will be selected based on the artist and their needs.

The total estimated value of the Golden Ticket Program for each participant is valued at an estimated $6,000 with 100% being subsidized by FACTOR, ACOA and Innovation PEI. The participants are not required to contribute financially to participate in this program, however, they must be able to complete the program within four months.

Info & Submissions

Submissions are now open and be accepted until:
September 15th, 2023 (4:59pm AT).

Submission Form

For more information, or if you have questions contact [email protected]

Eligibility Criteria

  1. This program is open to new and emerging solo artists or bands only.
  2. This project is for new unrecorded songs only.
  3. Applicant must be a resident of PEI.
    1. Permanent address on Prince Edward Island for at least 6 months.
    2. File income taxes with the PEI government.
  4. If a band, 50% of the members must be residents of PEI.
  5. Submissions must include a demo (can be a rough demo) of the song to be recorded complete with lyrics.
  6. A minimum of 1 and up to a maximum of 3 songs can be submitted.
  7. If you are selected you will be required to be a Music PEI member.

The following artists are ineligible to apply for this program:

  • Artists who have toured outside of the Atlantic provinces.
  • Artists who have received “Export Development Program” funding or “Career Investment Program”.
  • Artists who have already participated in the “RBC Golden Ticket Program”.

Music PEI would like to acknowledge that this program is made possible by the assistance and support of RBC, ACOA, FACTOR (through the Government of Canada and Canada’s private radio broadcasters), and the Province of PEI’s Innovation PEI.