The concept of Third Places/Spaces originated from sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the book The Great Good Place.

There are three primary social environments in which we operate. Our first space is our home. The second is our place of work. But the third space, the informal watering holes for community, is where we connect ourselves to broader society through playful, creative interactions. Third spaces include churches, gyms, libraries, parks etc. But with the rise of the internet, we have seen third spaces increasingly at risk. Community connections, a sense of place and belonging, civic conversations are becoming associated with a bygone era. As we form deeper connections to our screens, we form shallower relationships with each other.

Communities need to be built and we want to build with you. We believe in physical gatherings. We believe in a neutral space welcoming to both aficionados and novices. We believe in creativity and play. We believe in talking to strangers and we believe in being a refuge for the curious and inspired.

Mohan Singh Dahaley: A Legacy of Music and Community

Mohan Singh Dahaley was a beloved community leader, a stalwart of Indian classical and semi-classical music, and a gifted musician who left an indelible mark on the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). As a master tabla player and teacher, he nurtured hundreds of students, including the founders of Third Space Music, and inspired generations with his artistry and wisdom.

Dahaley ji was more than a musician; he was the glue that held the Indian music community together in the GTA. He created platforms for countless artists, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent and flourish. Through his tireless efforts, he uplifted many, fostering a vibrant and supportive environment where music thrived as a universal language of connection and culture.

His passing left a profound void in the community, marking the end of an era of top-quality music programs. Yet, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and the traditions he upheld. This festival is dedicated to reviving the excellence he championed, celebrating his legacy, and ensuring his vision of a thriving musical community endures for generations to come.