Sunfest '26 International Presenters Network Panel

Event Details

Event type: Ages 16+

Join us for the Sunfest '26 International Presenters Network Panel:

Music Cities in Action: From Designation to Impact

What does it really mean to be a UNESCO City of Music and how can that designation create meaningful benefits for artists, communities, and local economies?

This international panel brings together music city leaders and industry experts from Chile, the United Kingdom, Australia, Poland and Toronto to explore how cities can leverage music as a driver of cultural development, tourism, economic growth, and community well-being. Panelists will share successes, challenges, and lessons learned from implementing music strategies in their respective cities, while examining how artists, presenters, venues, and creative businesses benefit from strong municipal support.

Topics will include the role of local government in supporting music ecosystems, measuring the economic impact of music, fostering artist development and export opportunities, and ensuring music remains a key pillar of city-building. The discussion will also explore what's next for UNESCO Cities of Music and how City Council, industry stakeholders, and community partners can work together to maximize future opportunities.

Panelists:
Francisco R. Carrasco, Luma Creations - Liverpool, UK
Matías Mancisidor, Valparaiso Musical - Valparaiso, Chile
Kim Roberts, Nexus Multicultural Arts Centre Inc - Adelaide, Australia
Anna Tarnowska, Bydgoszcz Unesco City of Music Office - Bydgoszcz, Poland

Moderated by:
Jaclyn Tam, City of Toronto Music Office - Toronto, Canada

Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Time: 2:00pm - 3:15pm
Location: Century Incubation Space, 192 Dundas St, London, ON N6A 1G7

This is event is meant for artists and music industry professionals.

Event Link: More Info