Three West Kootenay artists and four festivals are receiving funding as part of $3.3 million in provincial grants for B.C.’s music industry announced Wednesday.
Creston’s Jayli Wolf has been awarded $25,000, while Slocan’s Ru Rose and Castlegar’s Ben Fox also each receive $8,000 according to a joint statement from Nelson-Creston MLA Brittny Anderson and Kootenay West MLA Katrine Conroy.
“We have some amazing home-grown talent in the Kootenays, and I love seeing our local artists share their gifts across the province and even across the world,” said Conroy. “By supporting career development for musicians, we can ensure B.C. has a music industry we can be proud of for years to come.”
Shambhala Music Festival ($32,000), Tiny Lights Festival ($18,000), Massif Music Festival Society ($13,000) and Unicorn Music Festival ($10,000) also received funds, as did BC Touring Council ($30,000).
Funding in B.C. was provided to 220 musicians and music companies by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. The money is part of a $7.5-million provincial fund announced last year meant to build B.C.’s music talent.