The Music Gallery
I’m not one for churches; I’m an atheist. But the Music Gallery in Toronto is a special exception.
The Music Gallery is, in fact, not the name of the venue itself; it’s the St. George the Martyr Church, located at 179 John Street. Tucked away, just off Queen St., it’s hard to noticed it at first but it’s a great location nonetheless and definitely easier to get to than the Sound Academy.
The Music Gallery is Toronto’s Centre for Creative Music and was founded in 1976. After moving locations numerous times, The MG finally settled on their current location in 2001. Their mission statement is simple: “The Music Gallery is a centre for promoting and presenting innovation and experimentation in all forms of music, and for encouraging cross-pollination between genres, disciplines and audience.”
From the outside, this looks like any other small church, but slightly misplaced with the sight of corporate buildings and the eye-catching black and white OCAD building sitting in the background. The area itself is pleasantly calm and quiet (most of the time) and its proximity to restaurants in the area is fantastic for pre-show meals.
Once you step in through the doors, you immediately walk straight into the main space where concerts take place. What strikes most when you look ahead is the beautiful stained glass window, no other windows in the room are stained glass and it definitely makes for an enchantingly colourful backdrop as you watch bands play (as seen in this David Waldman photo of Bruce Peninsula).
Obviously, this venue isn’t just for any band; you won’t find hardcore-punk bands playing here often. The Music Gallery is more suited for calmer music, with the exception of the oddly interesting show or two. As mentioned, a venue of such a particular, subdued atmosphere lends perfectly to bands like Bruce Peninsula, Basia Bulat and Hooded Fang – all of whom have played there in recent years. I personally think the sound and acoustics of the Music Gallery are quite good, especially when I saw Basia Bulat at her CD release show there last year. I’m not entirely sure how it holds up against acts such as The Dears and Slim Twig, but from what I’ve heard, it’s pretty good all around.
Its low/non-existent stage lends to a more intimate feel and the traditional church bench seating arrangements completes the venue; it’s literally attending the church of music.
The Music Gallery is a hidden gem to those who have yet to discover it and most definitely a unique highlight in the busy and chaotic downtown atmosphere. Some people may tell you that “You haven’t experienced a concert till you’ve seen it in a gigantic stadium or theatre!” but I’m telling you that you haven’t experienced a concert till you’ve seen it in a church.
Upcoming show: Arts & Crafts’ The Happiness Project will throw a pair of CD release shows there this week (Wednesday and Thursday) with opening acts Laura Barrett (first night) and Muskox (second night). Tickets are $20 and are still available!
