Blanche Israël Feature (April 2024)

The East Coast Music Association (ECMA) appointed its new Chief Executive Officer, Blanche Israël, a Moroccan French Canadian cultural strategist and professional musician who has called Dartmouth, Nova Scotia home since 2019. She began her new role on Friday, March 1, 2024. Join East Coast DNA host Darcy Walsh for a chat with Blanche Israël as we approach ECMA 2024. Israël has had various roles in the arts sector and brings a unique blend of experience to the position. As a consultant for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, she developed a comprehensive Cultural Export Analysis, and for the Halifax Regional Municipality, she consulted on the Performing and Visual Arts Venues Needs Assessment. In addition, her work with Music Nova Scotia as a Board Member and her touring and recording experience with JUNO Award-winning artist Jeremy Dutcher, has provided Israël with a broad perspective and understanding of the music industry. Israël’s skills in strategic finance, partnerships, and understanding of legal requirements in arts organizations are further highlighted by her successful operation of proScenium Services. Through this venture, she generated over $10 million in public and private revenue and supported a wide range of artists and organizations. Israël is a graduate of the University of Toronto’s Arts Management program, holding an Honours Bachelor of Arts. She 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. “We are thrilled to welcome Blanche to the East Coast Music Association. Her diverse background and deep understanding of the Atlantic Canadian cultural landscape makes her an ideal leader for our organization,” says Debbie Mullins, Chair of the ECMA Board and elected representative from Cape Breton. “We are confident that Blanche’s innovative approach and passion for music will greatly contribute to the growth and success of our music community.” “I am deeply honored to lead the East Coast Music Association as its new CEO. This role combines my love for music and my commitment to cultural strategy in a region that has been my home and inspiration,” says Israël. “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.” Under Israël’s leadership, the East Coast Music Association is set to embark on a journey of renewed growth and innovation, strengthening its position as a key player in the Atlantic Canadian music scene. www.ecma.com Opening music "Empire" by Michael S. Ryan accompanied by Blanche Israël on cello Closing music "Physios and Love" by The Public Service (George Woodhouse) accompanied by Blanche Israël on cello Subscribe to @eastcoastdna for more music + arts coverage throughout the year.