Musicians have been providing SkyTrain customers with music and entertainment since Expo ’86, performing at 11 stations along Expo and Canada Lines. The start of COVID-19 pandemic has put a stop to performances, so we’re bringing some of your favourites from your commute into your home. This month, give yourself a break and tune in to TransLink’s Facebook page every Friday at 12:00 pm to enjoy an online edition of TransLink’s Musicians Program.

Each musician will perform a 10-to-15-minute set during the stream. In lieu of tips, please consider a donation to the local initiative of your choice to support the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Here is the lineup for this month’s performances:

Week 1 (May 8) 

Stephen Thakkar

Genre: Indie Folk 

Hailing from Oakville, Ontario, this young singer songwriter is just beginning to launch his career. His smooth vocals and high energy compliment his authenticity, creating a heartfelt and inviting experience. 

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Week 2 (May 15)

Luifox Gutierrez & Alma Chevere World Latin Band 

Genre: latin pop, romantic ballads, rumbas, rock, salsa, reggae, zouk and flamenco Chill

LuiFox from Alma Chevere World Latin Band is a singer-songwriter and a multi-talented artist with experience in the performing arts as a Salsa dancer. Born in Venezuela with a musical family background, playing professionally over 20 years, creating compositions that are lyrical masterpieces of romance, passions, travels and the powerful emotions every immigrant feels when settling into a new life. The diversity of topics makes it easy for the audiences to connect with the music. Since 2009 LuiFox has been performing with his band “Alma Chevere” as well as as a solo artist.

Visit the band’s website

Week 3 (May 22)

Caroline Olsen 

Genre: Classical and folk music

Classically-trained violist Caroline Olsen is equally at home performing with a symphony orchestra in a concert hall or a cover band at the local pub. Join her for an uplifting programme of classical and folk music adapted for solo viola. 

Apply to become TransLink Musician

You can find performing musician in almost every major city around the world. They animate corners of our streets and through their performances help us discover different genres, styles and instruments. These performers are like urban conductors, setting the tempo and mood for our city lives. Whether we are hurrying to catch a bus or get to our end destinations, catchy beats or familiar melodies encourage us to slow down and spend more time in our public spaces.

Are you a musician interested to showcase your talent and gain more practice? Apply to TransLink’s Musicians Program – sometimes referred to our busker program. It provides the opportunity for registered musicians to perform at approved SkyTrain stations, playing a variety of instruments and styles.

Each year TransLink holds annual auditions to select new musicians. Aspiring performers participate in “So You Think You Can Busk?”, an American Idol-style audition. Both single and duo performers are welcomed. Successful musicians are issued a license valid for two years. This year auditions will take place in the online format. Learn more here.