Surrey’s music scene is thriving with internationally recognized South Asian talent who have fans across the world
The City of Surrey has launched the Surrey Music Strategy with a vision that “Surrey will be a music industry leader that supports musician development and a thriving music economy.”
Key findings from the Surrey Music Strategy include that the city has an internationally recognized South Asian music sector, and that at least 775 paid musicians call Surrey home.
In 2019, the total amount of consumer spending before and after music events by Surrey residents was $138 million, and the Surrey music industry contributed more than $90 million in total GDP.
The strategy is a cross-departmental and industry tool that provides recommendations on how to best develop a growing music economy that strengthens the social and cultural fabric of the city.
“Surrey is a city of immense musical talent, passion, and potential,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “With an estimated 350,000 residents regularly engaging with music, the Surrey Music Strategy provides a blueprint on how best to develop and expand a sustainable, innovative and diverse local music scene. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the development of this creative strategy.”
The Surrey Music Strategy was developed through intensive research and a widespread community engagement campaign that included musicians, music businesses, music stakeholders, and fans. A strategic analysis of Surrey’s music venues, audiences and economic impact was also conducted. The strategy’s implementation plan includes seven pillars with coinciding ongoing, short, medium, and long-term recommendations and proposed actions. The pillars include:
Amplify Surrey’s music talent and supportive resources
Continue building bridges between the City and Surrey’s diverse music communities
Improve access to places and spaces for music
Establish Surrey’s music identity
Expand audience awareness and engagement
Advance municipal leadership and support
Encourage music tourism and placemaking
“Music BC is proud to support the Surrey Music Strategy, which acts as a roadmap for sustainable, long-term growth of Surrey’s music economy,” said Executive Director of Music BC Lindsay MacPherson. “Through implementation, the strategy will create more opportunities for the region’s music creatives and professionals.”
This project is supported by Music BC, Creative BC and the Province of British Columbia. To view the Surrey Music Strategy, visit surrey.ca/music.
