The City of Music Conference returns to London, Ontario — Canada's UNESCO City of Music, with a
two-day format. More to be announced soon.
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Music Builds a Better Community
Now in its fourth year, the City of Music Conference returns to London, Ontario — Canada’s UNESCO City of Music — with an expanded two-day format! Taking place on Wednesday, November 11 and Thursday, November 12, 2026, this dynamic conference will once again bring together municipal leaders, policy makers, artists, music industry professionals and cultural advocates to explore the powerful role of music in building sustainable, inclusive, resilient cities.
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What to Expect This Year:
- Two full days of programming featuring engaging panel discussions, keynote talks, live performances, interactive sessions and breakout presentations
- Meet with and learn from industry leaders
- Presentations and panels featuring international speakers
- New sessions designed to foster deeper collaboration, cross-sector innovation and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Exploration of London’s music community
- The conference wouldn’t be complete without musical performances!
- Purchase of conference pass guarantees entry into Words & Music: A UNESCO City of Music celebration
- Lunch provided both days with purchase of conference pass
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Featured Topics Include:
- Full agenda to be announced closer to the event
- Sustainable Practices: Exploring music’s role in city building
- Municipal Music Policy: Strategies and case studies from music cities around the world
- Music in a Circular Economy: The intersection of creativity, business and sustainability
- Ecosystem Development: How a community thrives through a connected ecosystem
- Audience Retention: Engaging and retaining new audiences
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Why It Matters
This year’s expanded format reflects the growing momentum behind the global ‘Music City’ movement and reinforces the role music plays in innovative city-building. Music is proven to build bridges between the public, private and creative sectors while empowering cities to use music as a tool for diplomacy, equity and urban renewal. Come celebrate London’s 5th anniversary as a UNESCO City of Music.
Join Us
Wednesday, November 11 & Thursday, November 12, 2026
Whether you're a policymaker, a programmer, a developer, an educator, or simply passionate about the power of music and community development, the 2026 City of Music Conference offers two days of connection, creativity, and purpose-driven dialogue at the intersection of music, policy design and community.
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Stay connected to learn more about The City of Music Conference.
Join the mailing list here for first access to this limited space event.