Mississauga residents now have the opportunity to listen to local musicians while waiting on the line to report issues like a dead raccoon on their street. The city’s Music 311 program is returning for its sixth year, featuring 12 selected songs to entertain callers during their hold time.
Gaby Al Botros, a classical guitarist and composer who immigrated to Canada from Syria, advises aspiring artists to choose soft, calming songs for the program. He expressed excitement about the exposure his music receives through this initiative, having called Mississauga home for the past four years.
Last year, 225,365 calls were received by Mississauga’s 311 contact centre, with 175,965 calls so far in 2025. Artists like Shanaya Patel, whose song “August Twenty-Second” was featured in the previous round, found the program to be a unique marketing and connection opportunity.
The program, described as showcasing music “as diverse as Mississauga itself,” was inspired by similar initiatives in other cities like Toronto. Each selected artist receives $300 for a one-year term, with applications closing on September 28. The 12 finalists are chosen by a panel of local music industry members, seeking a variety of genres and family-friendly content.
By offering paid opportunities to local musicians and promoting top-notch talent, the Music 311 program continues to enhance the cultural experience for Mississauga residents.