Performing Arts - Professional Associations

Alberta Recording Industries Association (ARIA) is a provincial organization created with the mandate to support the development of artists, managers, publicists and promoters working within Alberta's communities. The organization recognizes that artists who understand the different aspects of the recording industry (such as promotion, funding sources and networking opportunities) are at a distinct advantage and tend to be more successful in their ventures. Thus, ARIA offers its membership access to valuable industry-specific information and with it, the opportunities that arise from being well informed.

ARIA recognizes the difficulty many recording careers encounter in terms of procuring funding. Membership in ARIA grants access to information regarding a variety of financial resources and provides support in the application process.

In recognizing a number of the challenges that face recording artists, ARIA has developed numerous programs that serve to support the creative aspects. Creating opportunities for artists to meet and interact with like-minded individuals allows them the chance to share ideas and develop a mutually supportive environment. ARIA offers a ‘Music Industry Networking Night', giving artists a chance to participate in educational sessions focusing on topics like promotions, touring, and the Juno Awards. In addition, ARIA has organized ‘Songposium', an intensive one-day workshop designed to explore songwriting. Through events like ‘Networking Night' and ‘Songposium', recording artists are introduced to fellow professionals in the industry while those new to the industry are given the opportunity to further develop their skills and network.