A first-class operation, well planned and executed in all phases – sound, annotations, everything.

Stephen Ellis, Fanfare

These are well-produced, well-performed albums, digitally recorded, properly annotated and in most cases offering the only available version of the music at hand. Let us celebrate the initiative of a label such as Centrediscs.

William Littler, Toronto Star

The sound is superb.

Paul Turok, New York Times

Centrediscs is truly the diamond of Canadian recording labels.

Tiina Kiik, The WholeNote

Welcome to the FAQ page of CMC Centrediscs, your go-to resource for all things related to our esteemed Canadian music label. Here, we have compiled a list of commonly asked questions to provide you with quick and comprehensive answers. Whether you’re curious about our artists, our catalogue, or our distribution process, you’ll find the information you need right here.

CMC Centrediscs is a signature service of the Canadian Music Centre. CMC Centrediscs is the only recording label that exclusively offers 100% Canadian composers. Our label focuses on releasing classical, contemporary, and experimental music recordings from Canadian composers who are Associate Composer (AC) members of the CMC.

The timeline for releasing a project on CMC Centrediscs varies depending on a few factors, including the complexity of the recording and post-production process and our current project capacity Generally, we aim to release projects within 6-12 months from the project approval date, but this can vary.

CMC Centrediscs primarily releases recordings of contemporary music by Canadian composers and performers who are Associate Composers (AC) of the CMC. We also occasionally release recordings of historic Canadian works, as well as interdisciplinary projects that combine music with other art forms.

We work closely with each artist, providing them with:

  • An experienced CMC Centrediscs’ producer to assist with the release process;
  • A unique opportunity for contemporary artists to have their music heard by a wide and engaged audience, domestically and internationally;
  • Comprehensive, personalizedsupport with pre-recording, recording, production, distribution, and post-release;
  • high standards for each project
  • guaranteed accessibility with major distributors across various platforms and marketplaces; and
  • Promotional opportunities to expand artists’ audience base.

The costs associated with releasing an album with CMC Centrediscs vary depending on a few factors, including the length of the recording, the number of tracks, the complexity of the production, and the number of physical copies produced. We work with each artist individually to determine a budget that works for their project, and we strive to keep costs as reasonable as possible while maintaining a high standard of product.

If an artist or ensemble is interested in producing a project with CMC Centrediscs, they will be responsible for securing the necessary funding to cover the costs associated with the recording, production, and distribution of their project. However, we do offer letters of support to assist with grant applications and fundraising efforts.

Yes, artists receive royalties from their album sales. The percentage of royalties varies depending on the type of distribution and the agreement made with the artist.

In order to qualify for CMC Centrediscs, 100% of the project must be composed or performed by CMC Associate Composers. However, if 50% of the project is comprised ACs (e.g. performers, works, timing, or all combined), an independent release may be negotiated and determined upon your project submission review.

To help you promote and distribute your finished recording, Centrediscs will:

  • Send out review copies of the recording to major music media
  • Possible record launch in collaboration with the artist/composer
  • Provide physical and digital distribution, in retail stores and online, through Naxos in North, South and Central America, including iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon
  • Provide additional digital distribution, through Naxos, to a network of over 300 online distributors and music services worldwide including Spotify, Apple Music, Naxos Music Library, Pandora, ClassicOnline eMusic, etc.
  • Promote and sell the recording on the CMC website, CMC Facebook Page, and CMC Twitter
  • Promote the recording in CMC offices in British Columbia, Prairie, Ontario, Québec and Atlantic regions
Submit your project proposal

CMC Centrediscs

Centrediscs is a valued CMC service for composers in Canada and for the country’s contemporary music community.  We are proud to bring the creative works of talented artists to audiences around the world. CMC is grateful to all of the artists for their contributions to this vital component of the Canadian music landscape.

The CMC Board of Directors has decided to put a pause on the intake of new submissions to CMC Centrediscs for up to 6 months while we await funding support for the program, assess the program’s business model and transition into new leadership. We are fully committed to completing the projects that are currently underway.

If you have any questions, concerns or comments, please contact email centrediscs@cmccanada.org

Submit your project proposal