By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Sound of Music Festival is set to return to Burlington from June 12 to 15, 2025, at Spencer Smith Park. This highly anticipated event will feature a vibrant array of musical talent, with community involvement and local artists at its heart. However, the journey to the festival begins much earlier, as applications for emerging artists are due by February 1, 2025. Aspiring local artists can register to compete in the Battle of the Bands through the Sound of Music website or by going to roadtosom.ca.
The Battle of the Bands serves as a showcase for emerging talent, culminating in an epic Grand Finale on June 3, 2025, at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC). Powered by BPAC and The Dickens Pub, the competition offers a golden opportunity for bands and solo artists alike to secure a coveted spot on the festival’s main stage.
Beyond the excitement of the competition, this year’s festival promises significant changes and enhancements to elevate the attendee experience. Staying true to its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, the festival’s team is working to remove barriers for all patrons. Plans include incorporating sign language interpreters to make performances more inclusive.
Improvements have also been made to the VIP stage/front area following feedback from last year’s attendees.
“That was one of our biggest concerns from last year — people paid extra for a better view, and it didn’t feel like the value was there. We heard what our supporters said, and we addressed the concern,” said Dave Shepherd, chairperson for the Sound of Music Festival.
The festival’s emphasis on community remains central, with a renewed focus on showcasing local and emerging Canadian talent. This year’s lineup promises a diverse array of genres — classic rock, retro hits, country, jazz, blues, and folk — ensuring there’s something for everyone. “Providing an opportunity to play on a full-sized stage with professional production can be a gateway for some of these artists,” Shepherd added.
A significant anonymous donation has also bolstered the festival’s financial outlook, helping to alleviate legacy debt and paving the way for an exceptional 2025 event.
“It takes some concern off our payables while we focus on 2025,” Shepherd shared, underscoring the value of community support in sustaining the festival.
BPAC continues to play a vital role as the festival’s presenting sponsor. “The BPAC team helps us with volunteers, logistics, ticketing, and office space,” said Shepherd. This enduring collaboration remains strong, even following the departures of Tammy Fox, former executive director at BPAC, and Steve Cussons, former chairperson of the Sound of Music Festival shortly before last year’s festival.
With the Battle of the Bands set to launch soon and a lineup designed to celebrate both talent and diversity, the 2025 Sound of Music Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of community, music, and accessibility.
