Local singer Leila Goldberger wins Colleen Peterson Songwriting award

Ottawa singer and songwriter Leila Goldberger is this year's recipient of the Ontario Arts Council's Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award.

An accomplished visual artist, Goldberger's winning song “Sisters” was a wedding gift for her sister. She is currently writing new songs for her debut album.

In addition to the award that promotes the work of emerging Ontario-based roots, country and folk singer-songwriters, Goldberger receives $1,000 cash.

“Leila Goldberger was the clear winner – her song's excellence stood out throughout the competition,” said the jurors in a statement issued by the Arts Council. This year’s jury consisted of Kevin Chief of Ottawa), Tom McInerney from London and Lori Yates of Hamilton.

The Colleen Peterson Songwriting Fund was established in 2003 to honour Colleen Peterson’s contribution to Canadian folk and country music.