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Over 50 years of helping you make music

CosmoFEST - Cosmo MusicFEST & EXPO

Saturday June 3, 2023

Cosmo Music
10 Via Renzo Dr, Richmond Hill ON

Cosmo MusicFEST & EXPO (CosmoFEST) is Canada’s premier musical instrument & gear exhibition and celebration of live music. An all-ages free event, CosmoFEST 2019 saw 14,000 registration attendees. Hosted on Cosmo Music’s 4 acre property and 56,000 sq ft facility in Richmond Hill, CosmoFEST is more than a typical music festival. It is unique and not seen anywhere near this scale within Canada - artists, experts, master builders, and leaders come from across the world to connect directly with fans. Areas include outdoor Main Stage, indoor Cosmopolitan Music Hall, instrument and gear EXPO, retail store, Kidz Zone, Community Zone, Food Trucks, and Beer Garden.

We're Back!

CosmoFEST is back for a sixth edition and we have lots to announce over the coming days; the best way to be first informed is to subscribe to our email. We'll also be announcing details on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

What does it mean to be rocking again at CosmoFEST? Firstly, it means a jam-packed main stage with some proudly Canadian talent. This is your chance to see 54·40, Lighthouse, Cosmo Soul Express Band, Elton Rohn, and Reckless Bryan, live and in-person. Lari Basilio will be demoing some awesome amps and guitars and PRS Guitars founder Paul Reed Smith will make a rare Canadian appearance along with David Grissom in the Cosmopolitan Music Hall. This is an all-ages FREE event, featuring hundreds of brands, lots of ways to save and win, plenty of food trucks, a shaded beer garden, and amazing live performances. We can't wait to see you all!

media partner

$10,000 Opening Lineup Giveaway

Arrive Early — First 300 Get Event Day Gift Vouchers

Just before the store opens, we are giving away a total of $10,000 in Cosmo Music Gift Vouchers to the FIRST 300 people on a FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE basis in the opening lineup at CosmoFEST. On June 3rd, you have the chance to receive a minimum of $25 up to $1,000 to spend. Giveaway Gift Vouchers can only be redeemed in-store or in the EXPO Tent between 9 am to 6 pm on event day. Be sure to arrive early to grab your spot in line — the last CosmoFEST lineup got BIG!

SEE GIFT VOUCHER DETAILS

Retail Store Sale

9 am to 6 pm

15% off In-Stock, 10% off Out-of-Stock

Take advantage of these event day deals! Hundreds of brands will be discounted in our retail store and the EXPO Tent on Saturday, June 3rd: 15% off in-stock and 10% off out-of-stock and available to order (some brands are not participating). Save on tens of thousands of different instruments, gear, and accessories. Sale is in-store only (retail store or EXPO Tent) at CosmoFEST.

SEE SALE DETAILS

Main Stage

54•40

Main Stage — 7 pm

Meet & Greet — 2 pm

54·40 was our choice for our planned CosmoFEST 2020, but unfortunately the world had other plans for live music for a few years. Neil Osborne promised and delivered to drop the hammer at last July’s special invitational concert at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts – this will be a live event not to be missed.

See More 54·40

Lead by chief songwriter Neil Osborne, 54·40 have carved out a legacy of gold and platinum albums and an outstanding reputation for their live performances that carries through to this day. 40 years, thousands of shows, and 20+ releases. The secret to 54·40’s longevity is their ability to redefine and reinvent themselves. To experience 54·40 in concert is to experience how songs have touched and continue to touch people’s lives. From the early adopters who have followed the band from their humble beginnings in east Vancouver to new young fans that have discovered them, a 54·40 concert is an extraordinary affair that bridges the gaps of generations through a shared love of music. [Read & See More]

5440.com | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Lighthouse

Main Stage — 5 pm

Lighthouse, one of Canada’s favourite classic rock bands, is turning 50, and inviting Canadians across the country to join the celebration at CosmoFEST! Lighthouse burst on the scene in 1969, with an explosive sound that defied all conventions. Between 1970 and 1973 they were awarded four Junos, four gold albums, and Canada’s first platinum album for Lighthouse Live. Hits such as "One Fine Morning", "Sunny Days", "Hats Off (To the Stranger)", "1849", and "Pretty Lady" raced to the top of Canadian and international charts.

See More Lighthouse

Lighthouse were the first rock band asked to headline the Newport, Monterey, and Boston Globe Jazz Festivals, the first to perform with Symphony Orchestras, and the first to collaborate on a Rock Ballet. Lighthouse was also the only act invited to perform a second night at the legendary 1970 Isle of Wight Festival among acts that included The Who, Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, Chicago, and The Doors. The band today features original founders Paul Hoffert and Ralph Cole leading an all-star line-up that includes original members Russ Little and Steve Kennedy with Chris Howells, Simon Wallis, Doug Moore, Don Paulton, Jamie Prokop, and Dan Clancy. [Read & See More]

Lighthouse Website | Spotify | Apple Music | Facebook

Cosmo Soul Express Band

Main Stage — 3:30 pm

The Cosmo Music ensemble, Cosmo Soul Express Band was born out of the need for good music. In 2004, the Cosmo Music team and some industry partners were looking for a band to perform in the downtimes after musical conferences. After doing due diligence and looking for a good local band, they realized one thing — they were all talented musicians in their own right. Now, we are lucky to have them grace the main stage once again at CosmoFEST!

See More Cosmo Soul Express Band

Considered a horn band, Cosmo Soul Express Band plays a lot of R&B, disco, Motown, and pop hits — keeping you on your feet dancing. Cosmo Soul Express Band plays at the OMEA Conference, charity events, and CosmoFEST primarily featuring Cosmo Music employees, alumni, and other industry friends. [Read & See More]

YouTube

Elton Rohn

Main Stage — 2 pm

Elton Rohn, Canada's premiere Elton John tribute band, thrills audiences everywhere. One of Cosmo Music's favourites for CosmoFEST, they have headlined over 350 theatres and festival shows in North America. From Las Vegas to Atlantic City, California, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Myrtle Beach, Pennsylvania, across Michigan and upstate New York, and all across Canada. They were the only Elton John tribute asked to play the Elton John convention in Las Vegas.

More Elton Rohn

Davey Johnstone, Elton’s long-time guitarist and musical director, told the band they were the best '70s Elton John tribute in the world. Not to mention, Nigel Olsson, Elton’s long time drummer, said "Elton has a twin." You will be amazed at just how close this show sounds to the real Elton John. As Elton, Ron Camilleri has the vocal, the piano, the look and the feel of the real Elton John performance. The passion, energy and those incredible vocals are there. Plus the harmonies. Performed live (no tracks), the band is the closest you’ll get to the real '70s Elton sound. Even Davey Johnstone thinks so. The band is a regular best in show at festivals and they’ve sold out theatres in major cities. [Read & See More]

eltonrohn.com | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Reckless Bryan

Main Stage — 12:30 pm

There is nothing like a Bryan Adams tribute band at CosmoFEST. What makes it better is that this one features Cosmo Music's very own Guitar Specialist Rob Vendrasco. Reckless Bryan kicks off the day with those summer sounds and upbeat vibes to the main stage. The band brings the sound and the look of the Canadian born rock icon Bryan Adams to you. Why? Because the boys still 'wanna' rock!

More Reckless Bryan

Reckless Bryan has been around since the mid '80s and went under the name Reckless through the late '80s and '90s. Still cracking stages, the current roster includes four of the five original members. While you are sure to hear the classic sounds of Bryan Adams, they've innovated with technology and set lists over the years. It's always a good time when Reckless Bryan hits the stage and that comes a lot from their consistency as performers. Bryan Adams is not an easy act to emulate, but their sound and energy is just like the real deal. [Read & See More]

recklessbryan.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Cosmopolitan Music Hall

Lari Basilio

Sponsored by Laney and Launch Music

Cosmopolitan Music Hall — 11:30 am

$30 VIP, $15 General Admission

Tickets will be Available on Thursday, May 4 at 1 pm

Prize Giveaway Attendees will be entered to win a UK built Laney Monolith, Secret Path, and Difference Engine effect pedals mounted to a Warwick RockBoard including accessories from Warwick RockCable ($1,632.39).

Meet & Greet — 1 pm

Lari Basilio is an industry legend, partner with Laney Amplification and Launch Music, and is someone we are excited to welcome to CosmoFEST. In January 2021 Lari Basilio released, in partnership with Ibanez, her first signature guitar, the Ibanez LB1, which is already one of Ibanez’s best-selling signature models alongside Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. The guitar also features the Lari Basilio signature pickups developed in partnership with Seymour Duncan.

More Lari Basilio

Lari Basilio was born into a musical household in São Paulo, Brazil. At the age of four she started studying organ and later, at the age of eight her father taught her first chords on an acoustic guitar. That's when she fell in love with the guitar. In 2011, Lari started working on her instrumental five-song EP, named simply Lari Basilio , which features Felipe Andreoli, bass player of Angra. The EP was produced by five-time Latin Grammy winner Lampadinha. Lari Basilio’s most recent album Your Love was released on August 5, 2022 and debuted at high positions on iTunes Rock Charts around the world. The album features once again Vinnie Colaiuta (drums), and also the bass players Sean Hurley and Leland Sklar, and Ester Na (keys and piano) recorded at United Recording Studios in Los Angeles. [Read & See More]

laribasilio.com | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Paul Reed Smith

Sponsored by PRS

Cosmopolitan Music Hall — 2:30 pm

Free General Admission Tickets will be Available on Thursday, May 4 at 1 pm

Prize Giveaway Attendees of the either the David Grissom or Paul Reed Smith clinics will be entered to win a PRS SE DGT David Grissom Signature Gold Top Guitar ($1,149)

Meet & Greet — noon

Can you remember the last time Paul Reed Smith demo'd in Canada? Well, we can tell you the next time...CosmoFEST 2023! Paul Reed Smith is better known as the founder and CEO of PRS Guitars, which he launched in 1985 in Annapolis. With operations now located in Stevensville, Maryland, it has grown into a world-renowned business, providing axes for the likes of Carlos Santana and Dave Navarro.

More Paul Reed Smith

Paul Reed Smith's first guitar was built as a challenge to his college music professor for some credits. He got an “A” and decided to pursue a dream of making guitars for a living. From that time, Paul Reed Smith has led PRS a long way, with steady growth in factory capacity, employees, distribution, and the number of prominent artists using their instruments. Every inch of a PRS guitar is based on decades of testing, rethinking, and reinventing. They continue to push the curve beyond what others would consider perfection. With experts to make sure the technology is unsurpassed, and dedicated craftspeople who guarantee a finished product you can’t keep your hands off of, they make no compromises. That’s the story of the beginning of the journey. [Read & See More]

David Grissom

Sponsored by PRS

Cosmopolitan Music Hall — 4 pm

$30 VIP, $15 General Admission Tickets will be Available on Thursday, May 4 at 1 pm

Prize Giveaway Attendees of the either the David Grissom or Paul Reed Smith clinics will be entered to win a PRS SE DGT David Grissom Signature Gold Top Guitar ($1,149)

Meet & Greet — noon

David Grissom is legendary guitarist who has played and toured with several heavy hitting bands and recording artists. Best known for his work with John Mellencamp, he has also released four solo albums: Loud Music, 10,000 Feet, Way Down Deep, and How It Feels to Fly. In close collaboration Grissom plays a PRS guitar and has for most of his career.

More David Grissom

David Grissom has toured and recorded with artists such as Buddy Guy, John Mellencamp, Joe Ely, Storyville, The Allman Brothers Band, The Dixie Chicks, Chris Isaak, Robben Ford, John Mayall, and Ringo Starr. His songs have been recorded by John Mayall, Rita Coolidge, Trisha Yearwood, Lee Ann Womack, and Storyville among others. Grissom has passionately played PRS guitars for most of his professional career. In fact, he played a modified PRS McCarty Trem for over a decade. In 2007, after a 25-year relationship working with Paul on the design and improvement of PRS guitars, his collaboration resulted in the DGT (David Grissom Trem) signature model. Its innovations include special pickups developed by Grissom, Dunlop 6100-like fretwire, a nitrocellulose finish, coil taps for both pickups, and two volume knobs to allow the blending of both humbucking pickups. [Read & See More]

Vendor EXPO Tent Brands

OVER 160 BRANDS & OVER 100 EXPERTS

We will have a full EXPO Tent: 14,000+ square feet, 100+ builders and product experts, and 160+ leading brands. Our suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers are just as excited as we are! And as a result, they've generously donated some absolutely incredible grand prizes (total value over $25,000) that will need to find new homes.

Be sure to visit and engage with them at their booth — this is your unique opportunity to:

  • Talk directly to the builders, engineers, product specialists, and artists

  • Test drive new gear hands-on

  • Enter every grand prize draw

SEE BRANDS & GRAND PRIZES

Food Trucks & Beer Garden

Watch out! It looks like we've started another Food Truck festival. There will be a variety of food choices available at CosmoFEST from jerk chicken to pizza, to churros. The large, shaded beer garden will be run by Ontario's own Nickel Brook Brewing Company, offering a wide selection of drinks combined with an impeccable view of the main stage. Eat, drink, and celebrate Canadian music in style.

Listening to great music takes energy, that's why we've tailored the selections of food and drink at CosmoFEST to keep your motors going all day long.

More Food & Drink

Cosmo School Of Music

11 am to 6 pm

1-Day Only Offer for New Students

Visit the Cosmo School of Music at CosmoFEST! A hub of excitement, offering free balloon creations for the kids and exclusive once-a-year promotions. There’s never been a better time to enroll in private music lessons or join one of our group music programs, than on Saturday, June 3. Aspiring new music students should visit our lessons team on-site near the entrance of the store, to redeem our special 1-day-only offer on music lessons.With over 50+ years of teaching experience, our expert lesson advisors and experienced instructors will be available to guide you through our diverse programs. As part of Cosmo Music, Canada's single largest music store, we offer a wide variety of private lessons, group programs, and Musical Theatre Programs for all levels of experience. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced musician, we have something to offer everyone. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your musical journey with live performances and the Cosmo School of Music.

LEARN MORE

York Region Open Mic Stage

Outside Store Entrance — 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Contact steffi.g@yropenmic.com to schedule your spot

  • First-come, first-serve spots available on event day as well

  • Keyboard, guitar, and PA provided; must bring any other instruments

  • Solo/duo/trio allowed

  • Two song slot with possibility of more if there is space

York Region Open Mic (YROM) has never been just an Open Mic. Since 2012, they have not only brought residents of Richmond Hill and York Region to the music, they have brought music to Richmond Hill and beyond! They have hosted regular weekly Open Mics at Big Daddy’s, Yogi’s, The Grill, La Sicilian, the Falcon and Firkin, London Pub, and of course twice-weekly at the open mic stage in Starbucks at Cosmo Music. This year, the YROM stage at CosmoFEST will feature local performers drawn from the amazing Open Mic community!

Contact YROM For Your Spot

RSVP & Win

Win 1 of 23 $100 Gift Cards

RSVP Deadline May 26, 2023 at 11:59 pm ET

Are you planning on attending CosmoFEST this year? Great - we're looking forward to seeing you here! RSVP to CosmoFEST 2023 and get a chance to win 1 of 23 $100 Cosmo Music gift cards that are redeemable at the event on June 3, 2023. Although the event is FREE and open to everyone, RSVPing gives you the opportunity to enter into the gift card draw and get one bonus entry for every CosmoFEST Grand Prize draw that you participate in on the day of the event.

What's Different This Year?

There is no registration or wristbands for CosmoFEST 2023, so you will not get a confirmation email when you RSVP. The RSVP is let us know you are coming, and in return you are entered into the gift card draw. Additionally, if you have RSVP'ed and you do show up, be sure to enter in the many EXPO Tent grand prizes — you'll get an extra entry to win for each prize (if you use the same RSVP email address).

RSVP NOW

Be a CosmoFEST Volunteer

Offering Employee Pricing

Looking to do more? You can volunteer at CosmoFEST! This is your opportunity to get in on the ground-floor of a rocking good time. All volunteers participating in CosmoFEST will receive a t-shirt, food and drink, AND Cosmo Music employee pricing on all items that we carry for 30 days after event day.

We cannot guarantee that schools will accept this as Community Involvement hours for high school students. But, if you do verify it's approved, we are more than happy to sign off on any hours you work.

Submit Application

CosmoFEST 2019

Special Guests: Geddy Lee, Dave Grohl, & Joe Lamond. Featured Clinicians: Nicko McBrain, Simon Phillips, Omar Hakim, Andy Timmons, Alex Skolnick, & Andy Wood. Main Stage Headliners: Sloan, Finger Eleven, Chilliwack, Terra Lightfoot, & The Cosmo Soul Express.

CosmoFEST 2018

Featured Clinicians: Tosin Abasi, Richie Kotzen, George Lynch, Jordan Rudess, Benny Greb, & Doug Aldrich.

Main Stage Headliners: Big Wreck, April Wine, Kim Mitchell, Richie Kotzen, & Bif Naked.

CosmoFEST 2017

Featured Clinicians: Nita Strauss, Nili Brosh, Dennis Chambers, Chris Coleman, & Alain Caron.

Main Stage Headliners: Mother Mother, Honeymoon Suite, Meghan Patrick, The Beaches, & Jacob Moon.

CosmoFEST 2016

Featured Clinicians: Omar Hakim, Andy Wood, Tosin Abasi, & Matt Garstka.

Main Stage Headliners: Big Wreck, Yukon Blonde, Brass Transit, Mark Wood, & Serenade Duo.

CosmoFEST 2015

Featured Clinician: Steve Vai.

Main Stage Headliners: I Mother Earth, The Mohrs, Hotel California Eagles Tribute, & Absolute Journey Tribute.

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