The East Coast Music Association has announced the 2025 Honorary Award Recipients. These awards will be given out at EMCA in St. John’s, NL, from May 7-11. Each of the recipients have had an impressive career thus far, with the recognition being well-deserved.
The 2025 Honorary East Coast Music Awards recipients are as follows:
Dr. Helen Creighton Lifetime Achievement Award: The Ennis Sisters (NL)
This award “recognizes an individual or group who has had a profound and lasting effect on the Atlantic Canadian music industry”. This year’s recipients, The Ennis Sisters, are known for their ‘seamless harmonies and Celtic-infused folk music’. With 15 ECMA nominations, 4 wins, and 14 albums, this group has captivated audiences worldwide for over 25 years. The Ennis Sisters will be presented with the award on stage at the Mary Brown’s Centre during the 37th East Coast Music Awards Gala on Thursday, May 8th.
Musician’s Achievement Award: Chris Ryan (NL)
This award “recognizes a session musician who exemplifies professionalism and quality musicianship on recordings and/or live performances of East Coast music. This year’s recipient, Chris Ryan, was ‘a celebrated singer-songwriter from Newfoundland whose career spanned national tours, award-winning showcases, and multiple song placements in Hallmark films’. With several successful singers, Ryan had the opportunity to open for artists like Toby Keith, Blue Rodeo, and Johnny Reid. His talent and drive earned him recognition across Canada and beyond.
Industry Builder Award: Wade Pinhorn (NL)
This award “recognizes an individual, group, or organization that has made a significant impact on the welfare of the music industry in Atlantic Canada”. The award emphasises the contributions that are not made simply for personal gain but for the greater development of the industry. This year’s recipient, Wade Pinhorn, is a JUNO-winning musician, producer, and educator from St. John’s, NL. Pinhorn has over 40 album credits and decades of performances across North America and Ireland. He has held key roles with MusicNL, ECMA, and FACTOR, all while mentoring and helping to shape the future of Canadian music.
Bucky Adams Memorial Award: Marc Perry (NS)
This award “recognizes a member of the African Canadian / Black community that has had a significant impact on the African Canadian / Black and/or overall music industry in Atlantic Canada”. This year’s recipient, Marc Perry, is described as a visionary force in Atlantic Canada’s music industry. With over 30 years of leadership in artist development, promotions, and community building, he has curated various compilations and managed award winning talents like Reeny Smith. “His continued advocacy and mentorship have helped shape a more inclusive and vibrant music scene across the East Coast”.
Stompin’ Tom Awards
These awards “recognize one individual in each of ECMA’s five geographical regions who have made a long-term contribution to the East Coast music industry and has paved the road for many successful East Coast artists of today.
Newfoundland and Labrador: Korona Brophy
Brophy, a renowned music educator and cultural ambassador, has nearly five decades of teaching and mentoring. From being the founder of The Celtic Fiddlers and the recipient of multiple national honours, she has “championed traditional music worldwide through performance, education, and community service”.
Cape Breton: Monica MacNeil
MacNeil, an award-winning music educator with an innovative, inclusive program that has transformed music education in Cape Breton, has a career spanning over 25 years. She “created acclaimed courses like Rock Class and Traditional Celtic Class, making music accessible to all students”.
New Brunswick: Heidi Baird
Baird is the founder and Artistic Director of the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo. This annual five-day festival has become one of Atlantic Canada’s most beloved music gatherings since 2008. Baird is “especially committed to supporting local youth, fostering musical aspirations, and mentoring emerging talent”.
Nova Scotia: Mike Campbell
Campbell has been a part of the music industry his entire working life from record retail to artist management to event production. Campbell is currently the Programming Director of The Carelton. He also “worked for MuchMusic for 18 years as host of Mike & Mike’s Excellent X Canada Adventures, MuchEast and Going Coastal”.
Prince Edward Island: Ghislaine Cormier
Cormier is “the Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard, where she leads cultural and artistic development for the Acadian and Francophone community”. She is also a producer of Festival Route 11 and works to amplify the cultural vitality of PEI’s Francophone artists and organizations.
With the exception of the Dr. Helen Creighton Lifetime Achievement Award, these awards will be presented at the East Coast Music & Industry Awards at the JAG Soundhouse on Sunday, May 11.
For more information on the 2025 East Coast Music Awards, Festival, and Conference taking place from May 7-11, visit: ECMA.com