2023-24 ECMA BOARD VOTING

ADAM YOUNG

CB

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I am deeply passionate about the East Coast music scene and its vital role in shaping the cultural landscape of our region. As a supporter and advocate for the East Coast music community, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills, experience, and enthusiasm to the ECMA Board of Directors.

First and foremost, I believe that the ECMA plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth and recognition of East Coast musicians and artists. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the incredible talent that emanates from our region, and am dedicated to helping these artists thrive and reach wider audiences. By joining the board, I hope to actively participate in the strategic decision-making processes that guide the ECMA's efforts in promoting and supporting local musicians.

I bring a wealth of experience in areas that are directly relevant to the responsibilities of the Board of Directors. Over the years, I have served on various boards and committees, both within the music industry and in other sectors, where I have developed a strong understanding of governance, financial management, and strategic planning. I am confident that my expertise can be an asset in ensuring the ECMA's long-term sustainability and success.

DEBBIE MULLINS

CB, Incumbent

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

Being surrounded by a musical family, I have attended the ECMA Festival week for the past 24 years. I am truly passionate about the success of our East Coast Artists and have immense pride in the magnitude of talent that we are known for all over the world. I also have witnessed how the Association with the focus on conferencing and workshops educates our artists to help develop their talents and skill sets.

The International Delegate program has been the foundation to supply work for artists and help in making their careers financially viable all year long. Being the Mother of Keith Mullins and the Aunt of Gordie Sampson I know that the ECMA has been a catalyst for their successful careers and for so many of our Legacy artists who are now world renown.

DWAYNE MARCIAL

NB

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I want to be apart of the development of our region working on the board of directors with ECMA to help the next up and coming and established talent in the East Coast.

JAN MARTIN

NB

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I'm always saying that there need to be more Mi'kmaw voices at the highest levels of arts organizations, so I figured it was time I start applying for those positions.

KRISTA TOUESNARD

NB

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I see this s a great opportunity to expand my learning within the music and performance sectors and to give back to the music community that has been my support and outlet for so many years.

NICK GODSOE

NB

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I’m eager to join the ECMA Board of Directors because there are two causes that energize me the most: working to build a thriving and sustainable music ecosystem in Canada, and the economic and cultural vitality of the Atlantic provinces. I firmly believe these passions go hand in hand. To have the opportunity to serve on a Board where I could invest this spirit of advocacy into supporting the Atlantic province’s music industry is an exciting prospect. I believe that through my five years working with the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, my three years experience serving as the Chair of a Board of Directors for a charity, and my training in music performance and research uniquely positions me to make positive contributions to the ECMA Board of Directors.

DERRICK STURGE

NL

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I would like to join the ECMA Board of Directors to bring my experience in the music industry as an artist manager, in corporate governance, and as a financial professional (CA, CPA) to benefit the ECMA. I believe I can bring a unique perspective and set of skills to the Board. As someone who operates in the east coast music industry every day, I fully appreciate the value that the ECMA brings to the industry and the value it creates for artists and industry professionals.

JING XIA

NL

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

As a dedicated musician and ethnomusicologist, my passion for music, diverse cultural understanding, and commitment to fostering the regional music industry align seamlessly with ECMA's mission. Music, for me, is more than just melodies and harmonies; it is a vibrant tapestry that weaves together stories, traditions, and identities from various corners of the world. My academic journey in ethnomusicology has allowed me to delve deep into the heart of diverse musical cultures, understanding the intricacies that make each musical tradition unique. Through my experiences as a musician and researcher, I have witnessed the transformative power of music in fostering cultural understanding and bridging gaps between communities. Joining the ECMA Board of Directors presents a remarkable opportunity to channel my passion for music into meaningful action.

MICHELLE EAGLES

NL

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

Joining the ECMA board holds great appeal for multiple compelling reasons. The organization's central mission, which centers on fostering the development, progression, and recognition of East Coast Canadian music, its artists, and industry professionals, provides an ideal platform for my deep passion for music and its cultural significance. Serving on the ECMA board represents an opportunity to actively contribute to the local talent and artist community, bolstering the music industry's growth and visibility. My motivation stems from a genuine desire to offer artists and industry professionals the essential support and opportunities they need to thrive in the region while pursuing their creative endeavors.

This motivation is further fueled by my experience as both a musician and a professional in the realm of large-scale events and hospitality, as I have firsthand knowledge of the remarkable potential within our community's artistic talent and the unique challenges faced by artists and the industry. Board membership also affords the chance to advocate for Atlantic Canadian music on a global scale. The organization's dedication to showcasing our music worldwide presents an exceptional opportunity to share our rich musical culture with a broader international audience.

Lastly, serving on the board would facilitate networking and collaboration with like-minded individuals who share a profound commitment to our region's music. I anticipate that further immersion in this community would be professionally enriching and personally fulfilling.

NICK DECKER

NL

Why do you want to join the ECMA Board of Directors?

I would like to be a member of the board of directors because, I feel, I have a lot to offer to the team. I am a new merging artist and I recently released 3 singles, two of which are instrumental. I was a juror for the ECMA last year , and volunteered at the awards in 2023. I graduated from CNA in 2022 where I did the music / performance, business and technology program. I currently hold the position of theatre assistant 3, at the Arts and Culture Centre, and AV operator at New Gower Street Church in St. John’s Newfoundland. I am eager to learn , I would be a positive influence and great asset to the board of directors and I am very self motivated.