An Update From Andrée Gracie | Interim Managing Director

Kwe’, Bonjour, Hello ECMA Members,

I wanted to take a moment to share a quick update as we move into a busy and exciting season of planning for the East Coast Music Association.

Over the past few weeks, I had the opportunity to travel to Sydney, Unama’ki (Cape Breton) with our CAO, Kathryn Herbert, as we begin laying the groundwork for ECMA 2026. While there, I was honoured to attend the Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame event and connect with members of CB MIC and Cape Breton-based board members. I also spent time at the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council session, which was filled with meaningful discussions and inspiring ideas about the future of our creative sector.

One of the highlights of this interim role so far has been meeting with the Executive Directors of our Music Industry Associations (MIAs). I truly appreciate the time they’ve taken to meet and share insights—these conversations will help establish more effective collaboration across the region.

We’ve also begun the initial steps in launching ECMA’s strategic planning process, a key part of our long-term vision. And looking even further ahead, meetings are already being scheduled with the City of Moncton as we begin early preparations for ECMA 2027.

Behind the scenes, the ECMA staff continue to plan for the year ahead with thoughtful care and dedication. I’m grateful to be part of this transitional period and, as I’ve said before, I see myself as a bridge—here to support the organization and all of you until the next Executive Director is in place.

If you’re a member, partner, or industry colleague who’d like to meet or chat, please don’t hesitate to reach out: [email protected].

Wela’lin , Merci, Thank you for all you do to make our music community strong.

Yours in music,
Andrée Gracie
Interim Managing Director