Crescendo Fest 2023

Crescendo Fest: An annual music festival in Halifax, NS celebrating Black Music, Excellene and Culture!

Your support will ensure free concert admission for the public, free conference registration for delegates and fair payment to the artists for their performances.

For years, African Nova Scotian/Black artists have been outnumbered and overlooked at festivals within Atlantic Canada. We must now take charge and carve out our own space, focusing the spotlight on our talented music community. Home to the largest Black community in the country, Nova Scotia is said to be the birthplace of Black heritage in Canada, making it the ideal site for Crescendo Fest; a hub that will create space for other Black music artists to engage from across Atlantic Canada.

The role of Black Music has always been crucial to the confidence and identity of African Nova Scotian/Black artists. We have existed in the dichotomy between the Black Nova Scotian reality and living in a predominantly white and immigrant community. Our music has always given us a sense of belonging. It has helped many of us grow – giving us confidence, creativity, and freedom. It breaks down societal norms and stereotypes. It gives us the boldness to go against the grain. Our music is something we can be proud of, something we celebrate. It speaks to the complexity of our people, our story, our legacy. It speaks to the impact we continue to have in the world around us. Black Music shapes the lives of many people all over the world, and it's been that way for centuries. The roots and impact of Black Music go much deeper than the catchy songs and popular artists that dominate the world’s music charts. Music is a powerful therapy and nowhere is that more true than for the Black community.

It is time to share that music and experience with Atlantic Canadian audiences and the national Music industry.

The first annual Crescendo Fest happened August 4th & 5th, 2023. It brought Black Music to the forefront of the public’s attention. We introduced new talent and showcased established artists with high production values within the confines of a safe space.

While the public component of the festival will showcase and celebrate Black Music, the conference component of the event will focus on higher level educational and networking opportunities for Black artists and industry. It will both nurture creativity and expand business skills in an environment where we can learn from industry professionals who look like us, as well as from our allies. A space where we can thrive.

In 2023 we launched with a one and a half day conference and a large public concert in Halifax’s Parade Square that will provide space for Black businesses to showcase and promote their products and services. We look forward to a 3 Day Festival in 2024!

About our Founder

Micah Smith is a respected member of the African Nova Scotian/Black community. A performer herself, she also plays an important role behind the scenes in the Nova Scotia music industry. When Music Nova Scotia created an outreach position for the ANS/Black community, Micah was the obvious choice to fill that role. A long-time supporter of Black artists and industry, Micah holds a position of trust in both the Black Music community and the larger music industry. She has also been embraced by the music industry as a leader; someone who will effect change and make a real difference in the pursuit of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

But Micah’s quest to give back does not begin nor end with the music industry. She has also dedicated herself to her community through her work with her church - from over a decade teaching Sunday school to taking on the role of Secretary where she was solely responsible for the Church’s administration. Through her work with the Church, Micah has planned special events from inception through execution, run fundraising programs, and brought international guest speakers and choirs to her community. Micah is also a member of Women In Music Canada Atlantic.

Micah’s goal in life is to help people be the best possible versions of themselves. It is a goal she takes seriously, and she does the work necessary to achieve that goal. Micah is constantly broadening her horizons and learning from those around her. She is currently doing an intensive mentorship with established music industry professional Sheri Jones (Jones & Co.), is being mentored by a prestigious international festival programmer (Arts & Ideas Festival), consults regularly with a similar event in Ottawa (Cranium Festival), and is in regular contact with ADVANCE Canada’s Black Music Business Collective.

Micah has a vision, and she will not rest until it has been realized.