About DREAMS!

DREAMS! Inc., Durham Regional Excellence in Arts, Music & Sound is a not-for-profit regional initiative dedicated to celebrating, connecting, and strengthening the local music ecosystem across Durham Region.

Rooted in community, collaboration, and creativity, DREAMS! Inc. champions the artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals who shape the sound and spirit of the region. We believe that a thriving music sector not only enriches cultural life but also drives innovation, inclusion, and economic vitality.

Launched in 2025, DREAMS! Inc. introduced a landmark series of live performances, artist showcases, workshops, and networking events that celebrate the Durham Region’s vibrant music culture, culminating in the DREAMS! Music Awards presented by Invest Durham, formerly known as The OMAs. This reimagined platform unites artists, audiences, and industry partners, setting a new standard for regional collaboration and recognition.

Building on that foundation, DREAMS! will continue to grow as a hub for creative exchange, professional development, and community engagement. Through ongoing partnerships and programs, we aim to strengthen the region’s music economy, amplify local talent, and celebrate the shared rhythm that connects us all.

Our Mission

At DREAMS!, our mission is to cultivate and celebrate past, present, and future musical talent and culture across the Durham Region.

We strive to:

Unite diverse communities through inclusive and inspiring music experiences.
Nurture sustainable industry growth through collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Recognize the artists, innovators, and organizations driving Durham’s creative growth.
Amplify local talent by connecting them to opportunities, audiences, and resources.

DREAMS! Inc. exists to empower creativity, strengthen community, and ensure that music continues to be a vibrant, unifying force throughout Durham Region for generations to come.

DREAMS! Unplugged

DREAMS! Unplugged – July 10 at The Biltmore Theatre was an intimate evening of live music, creative connection, and community spirit. Blending soulful performances, an open jam session, and meaningful networking opportunities, the event brought together artists, industry professionals, and music lovers to celebrate collaboration and creativity in Durham Region’s thriving music scene.

DREAMS! Music Industry Golf Tournament

The DREAMS! Golf Tournament, held on August 14, was a day of outdoor fun, friendly competition, and meaningful networking. Bringing together artists, industry professionals, sponsors, and community members, the tournament blended the spirit of collaboration with a relaxed day on the greens, celebrating connection, creativity, and the growing music community in Durham Region.
Special thanks to: Invest Durham, Biltmore Theatre, Booster Juice, MODO Live, Kops Records.

DREAMS! Music Summit

The DREAMS! Music Summit presented by Invest Durham, held on September 20, brought together artists, industry leaders, and music enthusiasts for a day of learning, dialogue, and inspiration. Featuring a dynamic keynote and a series of engaging sessions—including Building a Regional Music Community, Grant Writing and Funding for Music Projects, AI in Music, and the Songwriter’s Circle: Stories Behind the Songs—the Summit highlighted diverse and meaningful conversations that are shaping the future of music in Durham Region and beyond.

Sponsors and partners include: Invest Durham, Bond Street Events Centre, Convergence Music + Art Festival, Livewire Media, and Long & McQuade.

DREAMS! Music Awards

The annual DREAMS! Music Awards (formerly The OMAs) proudly continues a seven-year tradition of celebrating musical excellence across the Durham Region. This rebrand and inaugural year under the new DREAMS! banner marks an exciting evolution, honouring the legacy of The OMAs while broadening its vision to reflect the region’s vibrant, diverse, and ever-expanding music community.

Through its multiple award categories, live performances, and community partnerships, DREAMS! Music Awards shines a spotlight on the extraordinary talent, creativity, and collaboration that define Durham’s cultural landscape. Among the highlights are two cornerstone honours: the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes an individual or group whose sustained contributions have significantly shaped and strengthened the region’s music scene; and the Industry Leader Award, presented to a professional or organization whose innovation, mentorship, and dedication continue to elevate the Durham Region’s music industry and economy.

Together, these awards celebrate both artistic excellence and community impact, acknowledging the people and partnerships that make music thrive. DREAMS! Music Awards 2025 is proudly presented by Invest Durham, with the support of Bond Street Event Centre, Livewire Media, Long & McQuade, Biltmore Theatre, Convergence 2025, and MODO Live.