10 Questions with ECMA 2010 Event Chair Eric Favaro
Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Here's your chance to get to know Eric Favaro, and learn about preparations for the upcoming event in Sydney this March!

1. When did you first become involved in music?

I first became involved in music during my elementary schooling. I studied piano from a very young age, and remember during junior high taking a leadership role directing and accompanying choirs. Throughout senior high and university, I played keyboards in many local bands, and decided very early on to pursue a career in music education.

2. What drew you to the opportunity of event chair?

The timing for this opportunity was perfect for me. I have been doing private consulting since my retirement from public education three years ago, and throughout that time I have looked to expand my opportunities and try new ventures. I was approached to take on this role just as I completed several large contracts, and I was excited to be involved in the local music scene once again.

3. You became chair in September. How have the first few months been?

I was late taking on the role of chair, and so there was a tremendous amount of catching up to do. It has been busy getting to know all those involved – ECMA staff, our event staff, the committee chairs, volunteers, and the music industry in general. It has been a learning experience for sure, and I am enjoying it immensely.

4. Preparations are long underway for the 2010 event. What can people expect to see from the ECMA in the coming months?

We are finalizing the details now, and over the next two months people can expect to see increased enthusiasm for what we believe to be the best ever ECMA Awards, Festival and Conference. The list of nominees has been announced, and at our next press conference on Jan 20 we will be making additional announcements.

5. Right now, the ECMA is seeking numerous volunteers to make the event a success. What would you say to a prospective volunteer?

To our potential volunteers I suggest that you consider the amount of time that you can devote to the event, and to make us aware of your interests and skills so that we can place you in an appropriate role. We want this to be an enjoyable experience for everyone, including all those who volunteer to work during the weekend.

6. What part of this job has surprised you the most thus far?

I am pleasantly surprised by the dedication and commitment to east coast music that our staff, committee members, and volunteers have shown. They demonstrate a passion for what they do, and so it is a pleasure working with them all.
 

7. Is there a genre of music or particular stage you’re particularly excited about seeing at ECMA 2010?

Being a music educator, I am particularly enthusiastic about the Discovery Stage. This is where we will see emerging “raw” talent, and experience the excitement of seeing a potential star for the first time. Of course, I am also excited about seeing our Cape Breton students participate in the Soundwaves program. I worked on that committee five years ago, and now as Chair, I see that the entire program has grown to new heights.

8. As ECMA chair, you deal with many people who served on committees, volunteered or attended the previous ECMA shows in Sydney in 2000 and 2005. How do you think those events are remembered?

The enthusiasm and support that we are experiencing now in the build-up to the 2010 event is a testament to the success and strong memories from the previous two held in Sydney. As well, we see local artists who have risen to new heights during the past 10 years, and this is the best legacy there is.

9. Cape Breton has a strong tradition of great musicians and many of the ECMA’s most successful artists come from this Island. Why do you think we produce so many well-known and talented acts?

Music is a strong and important part of our culture. Our young people grow up surrounded by the unique style that we call “Cape Breton” music, and thanks to support and training that they receive in their formative years, I think we have an unusually large number of professionals making it big in the music industry.

10. Finally, our theme for this event is “One Big Kitchen Party”. Have you ever been to a Cape Breton kitchen party? Any favourite memories you can share?

I have been to many kitchen parties. I actually have the reputation of having a great party spirit, and I love getting family and friends together to enjoy music and dancing. In a way, I look at this event as one big party that I have the honour to host. I don’t have any particular memories to share of past kitchen parties, but I know that after 2010 I will be thriving on many wonderful memories of this years awards, festival and conference.