SOCAN is pleased to announce the arrival of Gaby Gauthier-Durand as the new Creative Executive for Québec, in the Member Services Division. She steps into the role previously held by Sara Dendane, who will be moving on to new projects, after making a meaningful and lasting contribution to SOCAN and its members.
Gaby brings extensive experience and a strong connection to the music community, which will support our ongoing initiatives. In this role, Gaby will work closely with music creators across Québec. She’ll be spotting emerging artists, fostering strong connections in the music industry, and guiding our members through SOCAN’s services. Her expertise in music publishing, artist development, and strategic planning, combined with her passion for supporting artists, makes her the perfect fit to join the team.
“It’s a tremendous privilege to be joining the SOCAN team, and to have the opportunity to support local songwriters, composers, and publishers, to help bring their ambitious projects to life, and to contribute to their success – both locally and internationally,” said Gaby, just days before stepping into her new role. “Driven by deep curiosity and a genuine interest in the diversity of musical expression, I’m excited to serve the creative community and stay attuned to the needs of a rich, dynamic, and ever-evolving landscape. My commitment to inclusion, representation, diversity, and sustainability aligns with SOCAN’s values, and I’m thrilled to be joining such a dynamic and forward-thinking organization.”
This role is a big piece for the mission of SOCAN’s Québec Affairs Division, which is all about supporting our organization in decision-making and service delivery while keeping the unique characteristics of the Québec market front and centre. Gaby’s work will continue to foster a proud, productive, and diverse market.
“Gaby is joining SOCAN at a pivotal moment for Québec,” said Jean-Christian Céré, Chief Member Services Officer. “Her experience and deep ties to the music community will help us strengthen our relationships with members and ensure that Québec creators feel seen, supported, and inspired. I’m thrilled to welcome her to our team.”
Before joining SOCAN, Gaby held the positions of Label Director, Live Production Director, and Music Publishing Director at Simone Records, where she oversaw album marketing, promotion, and production, as well as neighbouring rights and music publishing management. She played a hands-on role in artist development, ensuring local and international audiences could connect with their music.
Starting out as a classical musician, Gaby’s career evolved from performing and teaching to joining the business side of the music industry. She holds a Diploma of College Studies in Music from Cégep de Saint-Laurent, a Bachelor’s Degree in Cultural and Media Production Strategies from UQAM, and a Music Publishing certification from APEM. Bilingual and based in Montréal, she’s also deeply in tune with the city’s dynamic music scene, and loves spending her free time at live performances.
Gaby officially starts with us on June 16, 2025, and will report to Racquel Villagante, our Associate Director of Creative Executives.
SOCAN extends its best wishes to Sara Dendane and sincerely thanks her for her outstanding work and unwavering commitment to its members over the years. She will step down from her role on July 31, 2025, ensuring a smooth transition in the meantime.