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A career in music involves more than just talent. It also involves negotiation skills, understanding contracts, and securing the right opportunities. Whether you're a budding musician, a seasoned artist, or anywhere in between, this workshop offers an opportunity to dig into the skills all musicians need in securing great gigs!

Best practices, tips and lessons learned will be shared by Stephen Blanchette, co-founder of the Inuit-soul musical group Pamyua, and Heather Gibson, an Executive Producer at the National Arts Centre. Topics will include finding the right venues and festivals, connecting with event organizers, and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Stephen (Qacung) Blanchette is an original co-founder of Pamyua. He is the son of a strong Yup’ik Inuit mother who brought him up in the traditional ways of his Yup’ik ancestors; and a strong African-American father who taught him to be proud of his Black heritage. Qacung considers himself to be a global citizen whose Yup’ik and black roots guide his leadership and artistic vision.

Heather Gibson is the Executive Producer for Popular and variety music at the National Arts Centre (NAC). She is responsible for all non-orchestral music curation, and summer and community programming at the NAC. Heather and her team work with artists from all backgrounds -- from the most exciting new artists to the all-time greats -- to bring the best of the world to the NAC's stages, and the best of Canada to the world.