The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS), the Junos and CBC Music have announced  that the 2020 Juno Awards, scheduled for Sunday March 15 in Saskatoon, have been cancelled due to coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns.

A press release reads: “Through our collaborative discussions and with input and guidance and the full support of our trusted partners, including the province of Saskatchewan, the City of Saskatoon, Tourism Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Health Authority and Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, it is with an incredibly heavy heart that we collectively confirm the cancellation of the 49th Annual Juno Awards and Juno Week activities in Saskatoon due to concerns surrounding COVID-19.”

“We are devastated to cancel this national celebration of music, but at this time of global uncertainty, the health, safety and well-being of all Canadians must stand at the forefront of any decisions that impact our communities. We know this is the right decision based on the information we currently have and are continuing to receive. The situation surrounding COVID-19 continues to evolve rapidly and we urge everyone to follow the guidelines and protocols put forth by public health officials.”

Alessia Cara was set to host the awards ceremony and perform, along with Daniel Caesar, Lennon Stella and Tory Lanez.

The awards show cancellation is one of many in the music industry right now; music festivals such as Coachella and South by Southwest are rescheduling or outright cancelling in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Read the full press release below.

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