When Vince Dela Cruz first dreamed of opening a recording and rehearsal studio, it stayed just that—a dream. Life in Canada kept him busy. He worked at Tim Hortons, then became a CAD technician, but deep inside, music never left him. What he didn’t know was that one day, a casual coffee meeting would turn that dream into something real.
That turning point came when he met Mikey Amistoso of the band Ciudad. A respected musician and producer from the Philippines, Mikey shared the same passion and drive. “Tulungan mo akong i-build itong business na ’to,” Vince said. Over coffee at a Tim Hortons, they began sketching out what would become WAM Studio—a creative space built by musicians, for musicians.
Today, that idea lives at 100 Bridgeland Avenue in Toronto. Inside, WAM Studio is more than a place to record—it’s a community. Studio 1 is where Mikey works his craft as chief sound engineer, shaping the sounds of Toronto’s Filipino artists. Studio 2 doubles as a live performance space for intimate gigs and art sessions, its cozy lights and relaxed ambiance welcoming both pros and first-timers. Studio 3, with its chandeliers and wide-open floor, transforms into an event space for parties, small weddings, or art showcases.
Vince once borrowed cables just to play music. Now he owns a studio filled with complete gear, a dream space for anyone chasing their sound. A licensed architect back home, he found it hard to fully practice in Canada. But with his wife’s support—who shifted from nursing to helping manage the studio—he turned design and discipline into rhythm and purpose.
“Lahat tayo nagsisimula sa bottom,” he says. “As long as you take the risk and keep pushing, you’ll get there.”
WAM Studio grew out of that belief. It’s now a home for Filipino creatives in Canada—a place to rehearse, record, or just connect. Vince and Mikey continue to open its doors to artists who need space, guidance, or simply the courage to begin.
If you’re ready to make something, drop by WAM Studio in Toronto. Your sound might just start here.
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