New Study Impacting the Music Industry Released - The Sound of Support: Exploring the Music Community's Caregiver Needs

TORONTO, ON – April 2, 2026 – An important call to action study has been released that focuses on the needs of caregivers in the Canadian music industry.  “Sound of Support: Exploring the Music Community’s Caregiver Needs” was prepared by consultant, Diane Davy, and released by Women in Music Canada and Music Publishers Canada.  It was made possible with the support Ontario Creates, Creative BC, and the Province of British Columbia. The study sheds light on barriers faced by caregivers, discusses supports and resources, and offers strategies for those in the music industry concurrently managing both professional and personal caregiving responsibilities. 

“Music Publishers Canada is pleased to support this research and we hope that the music community sees this as a call to action to work together to raise awareness of the issues around caregiving, promote access to existing resources, adopt and share best practices, and develop new support where gaps exist.”

– Margaret McGuffin, CEO Music Publishers Canada 

Balancing a career in the music industry with caregiving responsibilities is a challenge many industry professionals including artists, business owners, and their staff tackle.  It is often overlooked in conversations about career development and equity and the time to act is now before the industry loses more strong community members.

“Ontario’s music industry is an economic engine which earns international recognition for its artists, production, live events and personnel”, says Karen Thorne-Stone, President & CEO of Ontario Creates. “We are proud to have supported Music Publishers Canada and Women in Music Canada in their research into the needs of caregivers in the music industry. Understanding the demands, exploring resources, removing barriers, and improving best practices for caregiving are all ways that can strengthen the music workforce in both Ontario and nationwide.” 

“British Columbia’s music industry thrives on the creativity and dedication of the people who power it,” says Prem Gill, CEO of Creative BC. “To ensure this industry remains vibrant, research is essential to understanding and supporting its workforce. Creative BC is proud to champion this work, which identifies key challenges, highlights available resources, and clarifies what additional support is needed. Building a caregiver‑inclusive industry strengthens both individuals and the long‑term sustainability of our music ecosystem.”

Common themes emerged consistently across the research including the literature review, survey, focus groups, and interviews. These include the need for:

●      Greater awareness of and access to existing resources
Many caregivers are unaware of support already available through both music-specific and broader community organizations. A large majority (78%) of survey respondents reported that they are not aware of any organizations or programs that provide support for caregivers.

●      More flexible working models
This includes hybrid work, flexible hours, role sharing, and fractional employment options that better accommodate caregiving responsibilities.

●      Reduced barriers in traditional industry practices
Touring, rehearsing, producing, and attending industry events often follow rigid models that exclude caregivers. Suggestions include planning family-friendly practices from the outset, offering on-site childcare at conferences and performances, and developing resource guides for touring artists with caregiving responsibilities.

●      Greater financial support to offset caregiving costs
Caregivers face additional expenses that are rarely accounted for in current funding models. There is a need for supports, stipends, and subsidies that include caregiving-related costs.

●      More peer networking opportunities designed for caregivers
Caregivers benefit from connecting with others who share similar challenges, both for emotional support and practical advice.

●      Best-practice policies and templates for employers
Employers need access to clear, actionable guidelines to support caregiver employees, including flexible work policies and inclusive practices.

●      Support for individual self-care and mental health
Caregivers often experience emotional strain, burnout, and “caregiver guilt.” Resources to support mental health and well-being are essential to help individuals remain present and productive in the workplace.

●      Recognition of the fundamental mismatch between industry demands and caregiving needs
The music industry’s irregular hours, touring schedules, and late-night commitments often conflict with the consistent routines and availability required for caregiving.

"As a caregiver myself for 14 years and counting, I am cognizant that barriers caregivers face are different for each person. That they may change over time. And that yes, they may make it hard to navigate in a fast-paced industry of alternative work situations,” comments Robyn Stewart, Executive Director of Women in Music Canada. “I am also aware that breaking down these barriers at times can start quite simply by recognizing that the caregivers in your community are trying to succeed in all areas ofhome and work life and that all of them is important. For Women in Music Canada, this study is the beginning of looking at how we can help with resources and knowledge sharing, and to listen and uplift the caregivers in our community so they can continue to be the professionals and personal heroes that they are."