Statement by the Honourable James Moore on the 2013 East Coast Music Awards

HALIFAX, March 11, 2013 /CNW/ - This year marked the 25^th anniversary of East Coast Music Week. The awards event provides a unique opportunity to showcase and celebrate some of the best talent Atlantic Canada has to offer.

Canada is home to a wealth of talented artists and creators who enrich our cultural lives and stimulate our nation's economy. Our country is the third-largest exporter of musical talent, and our sound recording market is the seventh-largest in the world.

Today, we celebrate the outstanding artists and industry leaders in Atlantic Canada who were honoured at this year's East Coast Music Awards.

Congratulations to the award winners, including:

Group Recording of the Year: Stanfields - Death & Taxes
Solo Recording of the Year: Rose Cousins - We Have Made A Spark
Songwriter of the Year: Rose Cousins - Go First

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate all the nominees and winners of the 2013 East Coast Music Awards. I commend the East Coast Music Association and its partners on showcasing Atlantic Canada's vibrant music scene.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage