Behind the Spotlight: The Journey of Anjo, and Live Music Production in Canada

Music has been more than a passion for lifelong friends Anjo and Filbert—it’s been a way of life. From basement jam sessions during Canadian afternoons to uplifting the Filipino community through music, their journey has been a story of grit, creativity, and heart. As migrants navigating a pre-streaming era, they found solace in creating Filipino songs and building a vibrant music community. Today, their story continues to unfold, bringing live music to life through dedication, collaboration, and innovation.

In this post, we take you behind the scenes of a live music production in Montreal, where Anjo and the Filipino TV (FTV) team showcase their expertise in managing the complexities of live events, highlighting how music has transformed their careers and the community they serve.

Anjo’s 20-Year Journey in Live Music Production

“I’ve been in live music production for 20 years,” shares Anjo. “In those two decades, I’ve faced countless ups and downs—failures that taught me lessons I now pass on to others.”

Starting small, Anjo and Filbert booked venues for 300-capacity shows, learning the intricacies of choosing the right space. The journey led them to iconic spots like Rancho Relaxo and Opera House in Toronto, where they hosted international artists like Kitchie Nadal and local legends like Slapshock and Parokya ni Edgar.

Their production team evolved, scaling from intimate gigs to massive tours featuring Kamikazee, Ben&Ben, and Up Dharma Down. They even launched their own weekly music venue, spotlighting local and international talent. Today, they organize shows for up to 2,000 attendees across Canada—a testament to their growth and persistence.

Behind the Scenes at Club Soda in Montreal

The venue for this production is Club Soda, a space known for its professional setup, from lighting to sound systems. “One of the biggest challenges in live production is coordinating the backline for the band,” Anjo explains. The backline—equipment like amplifiers and drum kits—must meet the artist’s tech rider specifications, requiring seamless communication with venue teams or third-party providers.

Filbert, an expert in audio technology, adds: “The latest advancements, like Dante protocol over IP, make setups easier. With a single cable, we can manage multitrack recordings and in-ear monitoring systems, streamlining everything for live performances.”

The Evolution of Video Production in Live Events

Jeff, FTV’s video expert, sheds light on capturing the energy of live music. “Years ago, venues used a single camera for reference. Now, we use six cameras for dynamic shots—wide angles, sliders, handhelds, and close-ups. This allows us to create an immersive experience for viewers, making them feel like they’re right there at the concert.”

Editing these shots into fast-paced cuts matches the rhythm of the music, amplifying the energy and engagement for fans watching later.

Lessons Learned and Giving Back to the Community

Through years of producing shows, the team has learned valuable lessons:

Choosing the Right Venue: Weekends are more expensive but draw larger crowds, especially for Filipino communities. Venues offering built-in lighting and sound systems save costs, but flexibility is key when working with varying budgets and tech riders.
Leveraging Ticketing Platforms: Services like Eventbrite simplify ticketing, allowing producers to focus on the creative aspects of the show.
Adapting to Evolving Roles: In smaller teams, everyone wears multiple hats. For Anjo and his team, this has meant stepping up as producers, technicians, and even artists.

Despite the challenges, Anjo reflects on the joy of working in an industry he loves: “When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. Music has brought joy to my life and the lives of those I’ve worked with, from small gigs to large productions.”

The Future of Filipino Music in Canada

Anjo and Filbert’s journey is more than a personal story—it’s a narrative of building a Filipino music industry in Canada. By supporting local artists and providing a platform for their growth, they are cultivating a thriving community.

“Seeing the artists we’ve worked with grow brings us happiness,” Anjo shares. “Our goal has always been to create an industry that uplifts Filipino talent and inspires others.”

Conclusion
Live music production is no small feat, but for Anjo, Filbert, and the FTV team, it’s a labor of love. Through hard work, innovation, and a deep connection to their roots, they’ve created a legacy that resonates far beyond the stage. As they continue to champion Filipino music in Canada, their story reminds us of the power of passion, perseverance, and community.