Hey! I just came back from the York Region "Art Exposed" Arts & Culture Conference. It was one of those things that initially I didn't feel like going to, I'd had some email notifications about it, and as a musician we can tend to think- if this isn't directly "MUSIC" related, i.e. playing, listening to, or writing music, I'd rather just do that here in my own room. But you know what, I decided to up and at 'em, and bought a ticket and went to this thing, and I have to tell you... it was one of the most educational and practical experiences I have had yet as a musician. The vibe was very friendly and open, and low-key. Dissimilar to downtown - Toronto based functions, I found it really easy to approach and connect with the artists and professionals of York region, and was wide-eyed to discover so much was going on, (almost literally) in my own backyard. It's so great to connect with other artists doing the same thing, and also meet professionals (both old and young) eager and willing to help aspiring artists get a strong footing in their career. By the way the conference was organized you could really tell that the aim and sole purpose was to promote and encourage the growth of the arts, and artists, in the community. I attended 2 seminars, one that was specifically about music, and another that was about creating a successful audience (in a broader spectrum, throughout all the arts). The music seminar was lead by the teachers of Seneca's IMP program, which encourages songwriters and musicians by giving them practical advice and career knowledge to further their pursuits. It was such a small group that we got some really valuable one on one time with the instructors and there was an open floor for discussions, questions and answers. In the audience-building seminar, it was a bit of a challenge to relate the advice being given to my specific case, as musicians were a minority and the main focus was on Arts and Culture groups who promote theater, symphony, opera and community events. However afterwards I got some pointed advice from the instructor on specifically music, and definitely throughout the presentation had numerous valuable "aha!" moments. I've learned from this how important it is to go outside of your comfort zone and really extend yourself for the sake of trying to gain information and contacts as a musician. I've got some cards, some notes in my notebook, and even some new friends that I made along the way! I can genuinely say that the Art Scene in Markham is not at all scary, and in fact, a very warm and inviting place to be. I invite you all up here for the next one, and to the many shows I hope to put on in this region - my hometown :)-in the coming winter months. -Anne-Lise