 has announced Blanche Israël as its new Chief Executive Officer.){kind=link}
In a media release, the East Coast Music Association (ECMA) has announced Blanche Israël as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the departure of Andy McLean in 2023 after nine years in the Association’s top spot.
This role combines my love for music and my commitment to cultural strategy in a region that has been my home and inspiration. – Blanche Israël
A Moroccan French Canadian cultural strategist and professional musician who has called Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, home since 2019, Israël will begin her new role on March 1.
“We are thrilled to welcome Blanche to the East Coast Music Association,” says Debbie Mullins, Chair of the ECMA Board and an elected representative from Cape Breton. “Her diverse background and deep understanding of the Atlantic Canadian cultural landscape make her an ideal leader for our organization. We are confident that Blanche’s innovative approach and passion for music will greatly contribute to the growth and success of our music community.”
Israël has held various roles in the arts sector, including as a consultant for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, where she developed a comprehensive Cultural Export Analysis, and for the Halifax Regional Municipality, where she consulted on the Performing and Visual Arts Venues Needs Assessment.
Through her work with proScenium Services, she generated over $10 million in public and private revenue and supported many artists and organizations.
In addition, she has worked as a board member of Music Nova Scotia and toured and recorded with Juno Award-winning artist Jeremy Dutcher.
A graduate of the University of Toronto’s Arts Management program, holding an Honours Bachelor of Arts, Israël has been recognized with numerous awards and bursaries, including the CultureNEXT Bursary from the Canadian Arts Summit and the Orpheus Prize in Humanities from the University of Toronto.
“I am deeply honored to lead the East Coast Music Association as its new CEO,” says Israël. “This role combines my love for music and my commitment to cultural strategy in a region that has been my home and inspiration. I look forward to working with our amazing artists and stakeholders to elevate Atlantic Canadian music and showcase our rich cultural tapestry to the world.”