Amazon Music works with TMU to empower the next generation of Canadian music creators
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) has come together with Amazon Music (external link, opens in new window) to expand access to its flagship global learning initiative, the Professional Music in Nashville (opens in new window) Intensive, taking place July 12–18, 2026. Through a gift-in-kind contribution valued at approximately $20,000 USD, Amazon Music is helping remove financial barriers for emerging Canadian music creators to participate in this immersive international experience.
TMU students from across programs gather in Nashville during the 2025 Professional Music Intensive.
Now entering its second year, the Nashville Intensive connects TMU students directly with the world’s songwriting and music-production capital. Over seven days, participants engage with leading industry professionals and organizations—including Anthem Entertainment, Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, Reel Musik Werks, and the National Museum of African American Music—through masterclasses, writers’ rounds, live listening sessions, industry panels, cultural tours, and networking events. The program is designed to bridge creative practice with professional insight, giving students real-world exposure to the full music-industry value chain.
“Global partnerships are essential in shaping the next generations to thrive in the creative ecosystem,” says Charlie Wall-Andrews, Assistant Professor, Creative Industries and Program Director, Professional Music. “By connecting our students with international industry networks and experiential learning, we’re opening doors that meaningfully impact their creative and professional futures.”
In its inaugural year, 23 students across Professional Music, Creative Industries, and Media Production took part, culminating in a TMU listening party attended by industry guests from Warner Music Canada, Universal Music Publishing, SOCAN, Rogers, and Advance Music. With Amazon Music’s support, TMU aims to expand the 2026 cohort to up to 30 students from across Canada, ensuring strong national representation and increased accessibility for students facing financial barriers.
“Canada is home to an incredible community of musicians and artists, and it’s important that emerging talent has access to experiences that help turn creative ambition into sustainable careers,” said John Murphy, Head of Amazon Music & Podcasts, Canada. “By supporting TMU’s Professional Music in Nashville Intensive, we’re helping remove financial barriers for Canadian students while connecting them with the people, places, and professional insight that define the global music industry.”
Amazon Music’s contribution not only ensures students can fully participate in the program but also provides unique opportunities for hands-on engagement with Nashville industry leaders—through mentorship, behind-the-scenes experiences, and creative challenges that prepare Canadian music talent for successful, professional careers.
About Amazon Music
Amazon Music is an immersive audio entertainment service that connects fans, artists, and creators through music, podcasts, and culture. Amazon Music brings fans closer to what they love, with curated and personalized playlists, artist livestreams, artist merch, and Amazon Exclusive podcasts. Prime members get access to millions of songs in shuffle mode, All-Access playlists, plus the largest catalogue of ad-free top podcasts, included with their membership. Customers can upgrade to Amazon Music Unlimited for full, on-demand access to millions of songs, as well as millions of songs in HD, Ultra HD, and Spatial audio, and the world’s largest selection of audiobooks from Audible. Anyone can listen to Amazon Music by downloading the free Amazon Music app, or wherever they listen to music, including Alexa-enabled devices. Learn more at amazon.com/music (external link) .
About The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty at TMU that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto. For more information, visit torontomu.ca/the-creative-school.