Ottawa covets 2012 Juno Awards

Ottawa's mayor is hoping to bring Canada's biggest music awards show back to Ottawa.

Mayor Jim Watson said he is working with the National Capital Commission and the province on a bid to host the 2012 Juno Awards.

Watson hinted at the bid on Monday when he asked on Twitter, "Who would buy a ticket to see the Junos if we landed them next year at Scotiabank Place?"

The Junos, which wrapped up in Toronto Sunday, were last held in Ottawa in 2003 when Shania Twain hosted the event.

"We had a great time when we hosted the Junos. It's good for the economy. It's good to showcase Canadian music talent and the Junos have become the big awards show in Canada," he said. "So, I'm optimistic, but we've got a little bit of work to do and it's ultimately up to the academy to make that decision in a few weeks."

Watson said if Ottawa is chosen for the 2012 Junos, it would plan a week's worth of events leading up to the awards show.

"We want it to be a big week long of Canadian music celebration. Not just the awards show, but how can we get music students involved, local artists, showcase them on different facilities at the National Arts Centre and make it a celebration of Canadian music and talent not only here but across the country?" the mayor said.