The SOCAN Artist & Repertoire (A&R) team continues to improve for our members, adapting to meet the challenges of the fast-moving music industry, the further expansion of SOCAN’s business into reproduction rights, and the further mitigation of the pandemic’s impact.
A&R has revised its department structure, clearly defining the two areas where members can be best supported by A&R. The team is now co-led by Kathryn Hamilton, Manager, A&R Programming & Partnerships, and Melissa Cameron-Passley, Manager, A&R, and will focus on developing connections and opportunities, assisting members as they navigate their creative journey.
As Manager, A&R Programming & Partnerships, Hamilton plans, develops, and oversees national and regional programs, events, education, and community-building initiatives, as well as Membership-specific sponsorships and partnerships, to better serve our songwriter, composer, and publisher members and clients.
As Manager, A&R, Cameron-Passley develops and oversees SOCAN’s member and client strategies for our performing and reproduction rights businesses, including developing and maintaining both creative and business relationships, with emerging and established music creators, publishers and key music industry influencers.
Both Cameron-Passley and Hamilton will continue reporting to Vanessa Thomas, Vice President, Member & Industry Relations.
We plan to build our strength in specific musical genres and business processes as well, by recruiting other team members for their specific knowledge and expertise. These new additions will complement the existing A&R team, which – in addition to Cameron-Passley and Hamilton – includes Michael Asante, A&R Representative, Rap & R&B, in Toronto; Sara Dendane, A&R Executive, in Montréal; Racquel Villagante, A&R Executive, in Toronto; Houtan Hodania, A&R Representative, in Vancouver; and Stephanie Falco, Québec Events Manager, in Montréal.
Since its inception in 2014, the A&R team has made great headway, as its elevated presence and direct involvement with members’ careers has allowed them to achieve greater success, and grown their domestic and international revenues.
A&R’s strategic vision is evolving, and will continue improving to align with the ever-changing music business, and our members’ needs.
Stay tuned for more news about our A&R department.