CCMA Discovery Program receives support from RBC Emerging Artists Project

The Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA^®) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Royal Bank of Canada, through which the organization will support the 2014 CCMA Discovery Program with their RBC Emerging Artists Project.

The CCMA Discovery Program, now in its second year, is a national initiative, created to educate, elevate and celebrate Canadian country music artists in their pursuit of a career in the music industry. The six finalists for this year’s program are in Toronto this week for CCMA Music Industry Discovery Week.

“To have the support of RBC for our CCMA Discovery Program, a relatively new initiative for the CCMA, speaks volumes about the program’s credibility and impact within the country music industry,” said Don Green, CCMA President. “We could not be happier in finding support corporately that mirrors our own passion for fostering emerging talent.”

"The CCMA Discovery Program not only educates and supports Canadian country music artists, but also provides opportunities for emerging artists to network and establish relationships with mentors who can help launch their professional careers.” said Jasmina Zurovac, Director of the RBC Foundation. “We are proud to support the CCMA Discovery Program.”

During CCMA Music Industry Discovery Week, running May 25 – 30, finalists will learn, in-depth, about the music business and artist development through industry-led information sessions and seminars. The week also includes a financial planning session with RBC financial advisors. A private, industry-only showcase rounds out the experience for the Discovery finalists. Over the course of the summer, the Discovery finalists will be paired with an established Canadian country artist for a mentorship program. Lastly, at the 2014 Country Music Week, taking place in Edmonton, Alberta from September 4 – 7, the finalists will perform at a public CCMA Discovery Showcase. An industry-led jury will select the winner of the 2014 CCMA Discovery Award as part of the event.

The 2014 CCMA Discovery Program finalists are: David James, The Lovelocks, Jordan McIntosh, Emily Reid, Tanya Ryan and Nicole Scott.