Look Beyond Toronto: an Inquiry into The Effect of Landscape on Canadian Music Through The Work of Harlan Pepper

Canadian musicians often draw inspiration from the landscapes around them, crafting songs that reflect their connections to their regions. This is especially true in Ontario, a province overshadowed by its bustling capital, Toronto. While Toronto's urban environment garners much attention, Ontario is home to stunning natural beauty that deserves recognition. One band that embodies this connection to the land is Harlan Pepper, whose song "Great Lakes" highlights one of Ontario's most significant natural features. In this essay, I will explore the geography of Ontario, discuss its diverse landscapes, and analyze how Harlan Pepper’s music is influenced by the region's natural beauty.

Understanding Ontario's Geography

Ontario is a province rich in geographical diversity, ranging from urban centers to vast natural landscapes. Many people outside Canada primarily associate Ontario with Toronto, often overlooking the province's other remarkable features. The Great Lakes, for example, are a defining aspect of Ontario's geography, with four of the five lakes located within its borders. These lakes not only provide recreational opportunities but also support a wide array of ecosystems.

To better understand the landscapes of Ontario, I researched various sources, including articles and documentaries. This exploration revealed that the province is not solely defined by its urban areas. Instead, it boasts an array of natural attractions, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. One particularly fascinating city is Hamilton, often regarded as the "City of Waterfalls," which features over 100 waterfalls due to its unique topography.

The Beauty of Hamilton

Hamilton is an excellent example of how Ontario's natural beauty can sometimes be overshadowed by its urban narrative. The city is home to numerous natural attractions, such as:

• Devil’s Punchbowl: A stunning waterfall that rises 121 feet high and features colorful rock layers dating back a million years.
• Cootes Paradise: A biodiverse area located on the west end of Lake Ontario, known for its extensive plant life and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
• Waterfalls: Hamilton boasts over 100 waterfalls, including notable sites like Albion Falls and Webster's Falls.

These natural wonders serve as a reminder that Ontario is not just a province of urban sprawl but also one of breathtaking landscapes that inspire creativity.

The Great Lakes: A Natural Treasure

The Great Lakes are another crucial component of Ontario's geography, comprising 20% of the world's freshwater supply. Each of the lakes offers unique experiences and recreational activities:

Each lake presents a different aspect of Ontario's natural beauty, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the landscape. These experiences not only enrich the lives of those who visit but also serve as inspiration for local musicians.

Harlan Pepper and the Influence of Landscape

Harlan Pepper, formed in Hamilton in 2008, is a band that encapsulates the spirit of Ontario's natural beauty through their music. The band consists of Dan Edmonds, Jimmy Hayes, Marton Nicolle, and Thompson Wilson, who came together to create a sound that blends roots, rock, country, blues, and folk influences. Their song "Great Lakes" is a tribute to the vast landscapes that define their region and showcases how geography can shape musical expression.

The lyrics of "Great Lakes" evoke imagery of the water and natural surroundings, reflecting the band's deep appreciation for the land. By drawing inspiration from the Great Lakes and the beauty of Ontario, Harlan Pepper demonstrates how the environment can profoundly influence artistic expression. The connection between landscape and music serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse natural heritage that exists beyond urban centers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the landscapes of Ontario play a vital role in shaping Canadian music, as exemplified by Harlan Pepper's work. While Toronto often dominates the conversation about Ontario, it is essential to look beyond the city to appreciate the province's natural beauty. From Hamilton's waterfalls to the Great Lakes, Ontario's geography offers a wealth of inspiration for musicians and artists alike. By exploring these landscapes and understanding their significance, we can better appreciate how they influence Canadian culture and creativity.

References:

• Harlan Pepper. "Great Lakes." Album: Young and Old.
• City of Hamilton. "Waterfalls of Hamilton." Retrieved from [URL].
• Great Lakes Commission. "About the Great Lakes." Retrieved from [URL].
• Royal Botanical Gardens. "Explore the Gardens." Retrieved from [URL].