In 2006, Avalanche Productions was commissioned by Martin Elbourne (Glastonbury Festival / The Great Escape) to organize a showcase event in Montreal for a delegation of very influential UK and Northern European music festival buyers, journalists and other music business professionals.  As a result, M for Montreal was born on October 29-30, 2006 with the intention of becoming a yearly event.  Thanks to the collaboration of Martin Elbourne as well as the Quebec Government Office in London who strongly supported this initiative, delegates passing through Montreal refueled with musical discoveries.  “M” offered them a fun and enjoyable “pit stop” (right before CMJ) in the attractive and musically buzzing city of Montreal, bringing them on a journey to discover what the international music press has been calling “The Montreal Sound”.

“M” is an industry tool that creates opportunities to network and export.  “M” is a professional event providing scouting services for international buyers & tastemakers and a showcasing platform for export-ready, Montreal-supported talent.  “M” is also a lot of fun.

The “M” organizers have selected 16 of the most export-ready acts from the area and are showcasing them over 2 nights at 2 neighbouring venues in the heart of Montreal.  International Delegates, consisting of festival buyers, agents, journalists and other influential tastemakers, primarily from Europe, the USA and Australia, have been invited to attend this intimate showcase event.  During each of the 2 nights, 8 bands play (4 in each venue) in alternating sets of 30 minutes.  Delegates move back and forth from venue to venue to witness the talent.  No two bands play at once, and the size of the event ensures that all bands are seen by everyone.  

To further encourage business connections be made among selected bands and delegates, “M” also provides networking opportunities during the two days, including networking cocktails, a speed-shmoozing session and afterparties.  The showcasing bands’ representatives are encouraged to meet one-on-one with the International delegates.  This ‘small is beautiful’ concept is focused to ensure that real connections can be made.  There is a limited number of tickets available for the general public to attend.

“M” seeks to provide resources for the community at large, and as such offers, in association with ADISQ and SOPREF a panel on selected international market.  In 2007, the panel will focus on the USA.

While in October, “M” brings the influential international buyers and tastemakers to Montreal’s finest export-ready acts, throughout the year it hosts satellite events which bring Montreal’s finest export-ready acts to influential international buyers.  Last year saw “M” represent in LA and in Austin at SXSW.  Keep posted for this year’s satellite events!