Mississauga residents who may encounter a deceased raccoon on their street might soon find themselves listening to a fresh lineup of local musicians. The Music 311 program in the city is set to return for its sixth year, featuring 12 chosen songs that will entertain callers while they are on hold. As the call for new artists goes out, Gaby Al Botros, whose track “Mist” was included in the previous selection, advises applicants to opt for soothing and gentle tunes to enhance the waiting experience.
Originally from Syria, Al Botros, a classical guitarist and composer, sought refuge in Canada through the Artist Protection Fund, which aids endangered artists in relocating from perilous regions. Residing in Mississauga for four years, he expressed his excitement about sharing his music with a broader audience in the city. Last year, Mississauga’s 311 contact center received 225,365 calls, and the number has reached 175,965 so far in 2025, although the average wait time was not disclosed by the city.
Participants in the program, like pop artist Shanaya Patel, whose song “August Twenty-Second” was featured last year, have found unexpected avenues for promoting their music. Patel highlighted the joy of connecting with people through her songs during ordinary moments, such as dining out. The musical selection for the program aims to reflect the diversity of Mississauga, drawing inspiration from cities like Toronto to launch this initiative.
Each chosen artist in the program receives $300 for a one-year term, supporting local talent while providing exposure through various platforms. The finalists are selected by a panel of industry experts seeking diverse music genres and styles, welcoming submissions in any language as long as they are family-friendly. Applications for the program close on September 28, with the selected artists to be announced publicly in January. In cases of group applications, at least half of the members must be from Mississauga.
This initiative not only offers paid opportunities for local artists but also showcases the rich musical talent present in Mississauga, according to Corey Poole, a coordinator involved in the development of the city’s music program. The program aims to create a vibrant and engaging musical experience for callers, highlighting the city’s diverse and inclusive cultural landscape.
