Musicians under 18 can no longer play in Calgary Bars
March 28th, 2007 posted by SkGoldThere are many young musicians who were developing their artistic skills by jamming in Calgary and provincial bars and lounges. Now they have to find some other places to practice.
This change comes because the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) has stopped issuing permits for anybody less then 18 years old. According to the article in the Calgary Sun newspaper the Gaming and Liquor Commission spokeswoman Marilyn Carlyle-Helms said:
“That effectively meant that the underage youth performing — as in musicians — could no longer go into bars, so no one under the age of 18 can work in bars any more — period.”
The famous Juno-award winning Calgary blues guitarist Johnny V started fighting against the AGLC decision. He prepared and sent a letter to a Member of the Legislative Assembly Greg Melchin. In his letter Johnny V said:
“Do you have a favourite band, musician, or song? I’d be willing to bet these artists have all developed their skills by a similar if not the same method that I speak of in this letter. Every profession requires this process, doctors must intern, lawyers must article, etc. This type of interaction is all important in the growth of anyone in order to ply their chosen profession. Think of it as a tradesman’s apprenticeship, they must receive both formal and on the job training in order to graduate. A musician can’t read about, or buy this type of knowledge, it’s what’s known as “walking the walk”, or perhaps “paying your dues” might fit.”
You may find the full version of Johnny V’s letter on themusicianslounge.com
Do you have your own opinion regarding the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission decision? Share your thoughts with the rest of Calgary by posting your comments below.
