Edmonton Public Library (EPL) and Alberta Music are excited to announce Olivia Street as the new Musician in Residence (MIR). An award-winning songwriter, performer (under the moniker King of Foxes), artist manager, and educator, Olivia brings a wealth of experience to support and elevate Edmonton’s music scene.
Kami Van Halst, Interim Executive Director of Alberta Music, shared her excitement for the newest appointment: “Programs like EPL’s Musician in Residence give artists the time and space to deepen their craft and connect with their community in meaningful ways. We’re thrilled to see Olivia bring her creativity and heart to this year’s residency.”
Olivia’s acclaimed work has earned her high praise, including a Rock Artist of the Year nomination at the 2022 Western Canadian Music Awards and recognition among the 2023 Edmonton Music Prize Top 3 winners. Her music has reached #1 on the CKUA Radio chart and has taken her to festival stages and international showcases around the world.
"Olivia’s passion for creating opportunities through music— on a festival stage or in the classroom—perfectly embodies the spirit of this program," says Pilar Martinez, CEO of EPL. " At the heart of EPL’s commitment to Edmonton’s arts community, the Musician in Residence program inspires creativity and connection. We can’t wait to see how Olivia will champion and celebrate local talent in new ways."
During her residency, Olivia will work out of the Stanley A. Milner Library, providing free mentorship, one-on-one sessions, and workshops for artists looking to learn, grow, and navigate the business of music.
Olivia succeeds Biboye Onanuga, who leaves an impactful legacy as the second Musician in Residence. His commitment to community building and music education has touched the lives of countless aspiring musicians, shaping their paths forward.
The Musician in Residence is a legacy project from the 2023 Edmonton JUNOS Host Committee, with EPL proudly serving as its host. For more information about the Musician in Residence program and to book a session with Olivia, visit epl.ca/musician-in-residence.
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About the Edmonton Public Library
The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is a gathering place for people and ideas, enabling a lifetime of learning, engagement and possibility for every Edmontonian. The second most visited place in Edmonton, every year EPL hosts over 15.4 million in-branch and online visits across our 21 branches and website. We deliver our incredible content to you everywhere – in the library, at home or on your handheld device. Unmatched access and unrivalled value – that is today’s EPL.
EPL is a registered charity and relies on donations to enhance services. Spread the words. epl.ca/give
About Alberta Music
The Alberta Music Industry Association is a non-profit, service-based association dedicated to helping professionals in the music industry succeed in their careers with the goals to build, connect and inspire a dynamic Alberta music industry.
Alberta Music has offices in Edmonton and Calgary. The organization provides professional development programming and networking opportunities, export and domestic showcasing and performance events, as well as advocacy and representation of the Alberta music industry on municipal, regional, and national levels.
Media Contacts:
Béné Garmier | Director, Marketing, Communications, and Fund Development
Edmonton Public Library
587-596-0683 | EPLMedia@epl.ca
Kami Van Halst | Interim Executive Director | Alberta Music
780-428-3372| kami@albertamusic.org