Music Generation has announced the appointment of composer and music professor Mel Mercier to its board of directors. Mercier is the Chair of Performing Arts at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at University of Limerick, and was formerly a Professor of Music and Head of the School of Music and Theatre at University College Cork. He is also a traditional percussionist and director of the Irish Gamelan Orchestra. 

Speaking about his appointment, Mercier said:

Music Generation is a groundbreaking educational initiative that has enriched the musical landscape in Ireland over the past decade. I look forward to supporting its future growth and development, as it opens the door to a brighter musical future for many more children and young people over the coming years.

Chairperson Leo Blennerhassett welcomed the composer and educator to the board and said:

As a highly respected member of the music education community in Ireland, and as a distinguished musician and composer, Mel’s extensive knowledge and expertise will make a valuable contribution to Music Generation. It’s a great pleasure to welcome him to the Board.

For more, visit www.musicgeneration.ie.

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Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) has announced the appointment of broadcasting director Clare Duignan to its board of directors. Duignan was formerly the managing director of RTÉ Radio, having worked with RTÉ for over twenty years, in positions such as Head of Independent Productions, Director of Programmes TV, and Managing Director Radio and Performing Groups. She also has extensive experience on the boards of both public and private organisations. 

Commenting on her appointment, Duignan said: 

I hope to use my experience in broadcasting and film, the arts and business to support IMRO in delivering the best possible opportunities for songwriters, composers and music publishers in this digital age, including ensuring the speedy and effective enactment of the EU Copyright Directive so that members are properly remunerated and can reach their full potential at home, in Europe and across the globe

Eleanor McEvoy, chair of IMRO, said: 

We are thrilled to welcome Clare Duignan to the board. Her extensive experience across the public and private sectors, and her passion for the arts and culture, make her a huge asset to IMRO… This appointment comes at an important time for IMRO as the vital EU Copyright Directive is due to be transposed into Irish law next year.  This directive will modernise copyright legislation and protect songwriters, artists, and creators by ensuring they are paid fairly for their hard and important work.

For more, visit www.imro.ie.

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Radio Managing Editor Sam Jackson has been announced by Universal Music Group as the new Executive Vice President, Global Classics and Jazz, based in the company’s London headquarters. The role is a newly created global leadership position. 

Jackson leaves his former position of Senior Managing Editor at Global, Europe’s largest radio company, responsible for Smooth, Gold and Classic FM. 

Jackson commented:

Over the last 15 years, I have been extremely fortunate to work closely with the team at Universal Music – a fantastic group of people who are so clearly committed to serving audiences with the finest recordings. In this digital age, there has never been a better opportunity for classical music and jazz to be enjoyed by an even broader audience, and I cannot wait to work with the team and their outstanding artists.

Dickon Stainer, President and CEO of Global Classics and Jazz, said:

I’m delighted that such an experienced and forward-thinking executive has joined the Global Classics and Jazz division at this pivotal moment in the era of fan engagement. Sam has a broad and pioneering track record of success in attracting diverse audience sectors to different types of music and his experience will help us provide expertise and insight for our world-renowned and developing artists.

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PRS for Music has re-appointed Nigel Elderton, Managing Director and European President of music publishing company Peermusic, as its Chairman. Elderton was originally appointed as Chairman in 2017. During his time as Chairman, he has been working on the organisation’s involvement in significant music industry events including the passing of the EU Copyright Directive in 2019. 

Andrea C. Martin, Chief Executive of PRS for Music, said: 

Nigel has done an exceptional job providing his expert knowledge and guidance as Chair over the past three years and I congratulate him on his reappointment. With over 45 years’ experience in the music industry, Nigel’s expertise will prove invaluable over the coming years and I look forward to working with him closely as we improve our offering to our members.

For more, visit www.prsformusic.com.

For December appointments, see here.