Concerts on the Canal Music Search launches to find local talent for 2026 season

The City of Welland, in partnership with Giant FM, Country 89.1, and the Seaway Mall, is inviting local musicians and bands to apply for the 2026 Concerts on the Canal Music Search, an opportunity to perform live, showcase their talent, and compete for a featured spot in the City’s popular, award-winning summer music series.

Applications will be accepted from January 5 to 16. Interested performers must be 16 years of age or older and must not have participated in the Concerts on the Canal series in 2024 or 2025. All music genres are welcome, provided performances are family-friendly and appropriate for all ages.

Selected applicants will take part in live showcase performances on Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Seaway Mall, Centre Court.

Following the Music Search event, the top three acts will earn a chance to perform during the 2026 concert series, along with the following prizes:

• First place: A fully tracked and mixed song at ToneHenge Recording Studio, plus a live on-air feature on Country 89’s New Music Fridays.
• Second place: A $500 gift card to Long & McQuade Music Store.
• Third place: A band photoshoot with photographer Paul Schmidt.

Concerts on the Canal is a long-standing summer tradition in Welland, celebrating local talent and bringing the community together through live music.

For full details and to apply, visit https://www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/COC-musicSearch.asp