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Justine Giles steps out of her comfort zone

Earlier this year, Sudbury native Justine Giles packed up her bags and moved to Montreal. It was a big step for the 22-year-old, but one that's paid off for the local singer-songwriter.
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Singer-songwriter Justine Giles, a native of Sudbury, has moved to Montreal, where she's taking part in industry showcases, hoping to make the big time. Supplied photo.
Earlier this year, Sudbury native Justine Giles packed up her bags and moved to Montreal. It was a big step for the 22-year-old, but one that's paid off for the local singer-songwriter.

Giles, who released her debut album, Shine, last September, said she's always loved Montreal, mostly because of the city's thriving arts scene.

Because she wanted to spend more time there, last year she started searching the Internet, looking for opportunities in the city.

Giles came across the website for Landmark Events, a company that puts on music showcases in Montreal. Not fully knowing what she was getting herself into, she applied to appear in the showcases.

Last November, Giles was invited by Landmark Events to take part in a series of showcases at large venues in the Montréal area, ultimately prompting her move.

The top five finalists obtain worldwide distribution from Universal Music, along with other record label opportunities.

“It's exciting to play big venues,” said Giles, a graduate of Sudbury Secondary School's performing arts program, as well as Cambrian College's art and design program.

“I've always loved playing for big crowds. It's just really nice to hear yourself even with a big sound system. It's a totally different world than playing in coffee shops and small venues.”

The final Landmark Events showcase is Sept. 5. Giles' band, which includes her father, is flying out to play with her.

Giles has also recently gotten involved with another showcase company, RAW Artists, which operates in 60 cities around the globe. She'll be participating in an Aug. 6 Montreal showcase with this company.

While Giles said leaving her hometown for the unknown of a larger city has been a bit daunting, it's been worth it.

“There's some days where you do question it,” she said. “But there's other times where I'm like 'Wow, I'm doing what I've always wanted to do. I'm definitely really proud that I've gotten myself to be where I am right now.'”

Learn more about Giles at www.justinegiles.com.

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Heidi Ulrichsen

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