Hidden concerts: Local musicians perform in a backyard concert series

Hidden in plain sight is an ordinary backyard that transforms into a live-music venue right here in Toronto.

In a city where rent is sky-high, groceries are a burden, and the cost of living is becoming overwhelming, musicians in Toronto are struggling to find venues that let them pay enough to survive and to make a name for themselves.

Many venues and promoters exploit musicians, according to singer-songwriter Rebekah Wise. From that, she decided to create Veiled Garden, a trusting space for local artists to perform and get paid fairly for their time.

“I wanted to create a space for artists where we have all the control over everything and we’re able to control the narrative… Not wait for the opportunities to come to us — and make them ourselves,” Wise told Now Toronto.

The 22-year-old artist hopes to create a “Veiled Garden, a space meant to capture the feeling of stepping into a hidden, whimsical world where art, music, and community come together, creating an intimate and immersive experience that breaks down the walls between performers and guests,” she explained.

Wise’s mom suggested she host backyard concerts in 2025 — and she has been doing so ever since.

What goes into organizing these events?

In the early days, Wise needed to rent equipment, made posters, and promoted the event with a limited budget.

Initially, there were just a few chairs and couches set up, and little sound and lighting equipment.

She also set up a tent in case of rain.

After posting a few TikTok videos, Veiled Gardens went viral — and many musicians resonated with the initiative.

@rebekahcwise And it’s just the beginning… We just announced our first event of the summer season! Join us May 17th for an outdoor party celebrating Torontos local music! Tickets are $15 and available In my instagram bio Rebekah_wise #toronto #torontoevents #concert #livemusic #indiebands ♬ original sound – RebekahcWise

“Hey – this is such an awesome concept!! I’d love to play at a show this summer – let me know if there’s anything I could do!” one TikTok user commented.

“LOVE THISSSS are you looking for artists?” another asked.

Other Torontonians who aren’t looking to perform are just as excited to possibly attend the event.

“Omg, how can I get an invite!!?” one user wrote.

“I need more details, this looks so sick!!!” another added.

“Amazing, keep the scene alive, love you,” praised another.

How does this initiative help the artists?

Veiled Gardens events are priced at $15 a ticket, and all proceeds are split equally among performers.

“It’s not a popularity contest. You’re not having one artist who has more followers who makes more money. It kind of helps support everyone equally,” Wise explained.

For anyone wishing to further support local artists, there’s an option to donate.

How is the lineup chosen?

Previously, Wise and her friends made up the lineups. Now that Veiled Gardens is gaining popularity, Wise reviews inquiries from interested performers, too.

What should you expect?

Wise said the audience that shows up the most are people in an arts college or creatives of all ages.

She hinted that future events might include art vendors, but she’s still looking into it.

“I’m trying to create a really nice community in the arts because I think I’ve noticed such a huge gap in third spaces. I’m 22 years old, and it seems like there’s not much for people my age to do besides go to bars and clubs,” Wise said.

“It just seems like there’s all these people super hungry to get involved in something like this,” she added.

The May 17 event runs from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., offering multiple performances while adhering to noise bylaws.

This time, the venue’s moving to Sotto Voce’s patio on College St for five band performances.