Judy McGrath to Advise Music Network Startup

DUBLIN: BalconyTV, an online music network that started as a YouTube show, has tapped ex-MTV Networks CEO Judy McGrath as an advisor, and has secured institutional funding from Polaris Venture Partners, Lerer Ventures and Greycroft Partners.

Founded by Stephen O’Regan, Tom Millett and Pauline Freeman in Dublin, the network originated as a daily YouTube series. The three founders would film performances of new and up-and-coming artists from their apartment balcony. It is now an online channel featuring shows produced in more than 30 cities. “Being a music fan, I love how BalconyTV has grown in such an underground way,” said McGrath, “I’m excited to see how far they can go.”

Commenting on Polaris Venture Partners’ investment in the outfit, partner Peter Flint said, “BalconyTV represents the future of video music discovery on a global basis. Nowhere else on the web—and soon to be mobile—can consumers find such international music diversity.”