Welcome Ninette Babineau as a Talent Trust Honorary Lifetime Director

Today, we acknowledge Ninette Babineau. 

Music has been her life and many of you know her through her work as an arts education consultant, musician, adjudicator, clinician, teacher, mentor and performer. And some of you might have even had violin lessons with her. Ninette Babineau’s career has spanned over five decades. Her résumé is a long list of accomplishments, experiences, and impressive affiliations.

What many of you might not know is that Ninette Babineau was a Talent Trust board member for many years and helped shape the Talent Trust. Since stepping down from the Talent Trust she has been one of our leading donors and supporters.

We honoured Ninette at the 2021 Special Awards Ceremony in December by adding her officially back into the Talent Trust family as an Honorary Lifetime Director. 

Thank you, Ninette!

“Through varying roles, I have enjoyed a long association with the Nova Scotia Talent Trust and have watched with delight as it has developed into a significant support organization for our young and emerging artists.  The range of fields of endeavour has continued to expand to meet the demands of the continuing and changing world of today’s artist.

We enjoy the presence of hard working and talented young people in this province who are contributing to the cultural life of their respective communities.  Many are preparing for a life in the arts under the guidance of dedicated teachers and mentors. They deserve our support.

I am pleased and honoured to have been invited to join the Talent Trust Board once again." States Ninette Babineau.

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Want to support the next generation of Nova Scotian artists? Donate today! (smile)

Job Opportunity: Executive Director Talent Trust

An Exciting Job Opportunity Awaits...

Executive Director for the Nova Scotia Talent Trust

Help Us Support The Next Generation of 

Artists and Creators in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Talent Trust (NSTT) is seeking an Executive Director, enthusiastic about the arts and keen to help the NSTT grow. Benefit from our inclusive culture that supports your work while also respecting conversation and debate. We appreciate self-learners with strong interpersonal skills. We will work together to develop a shared culture of inclusivity, loyalty and trust.

The pandemic has shown us even more how important the arts are for our well-being and health. The NSTT was fortunate to support 55 pre-professional artists in 2021.  Help us secure the future of a diverse cultural legacy. Over the last two years, we gave out 35 Special Awards and 155 scholarships! Applications have been solid and plentiful, which means MORE fundraising and donations are needed to help these talented individuals achieve their dreams. 

Since 1944, the Talent Trust has provided more than $2.5 million to over 1,000 Nova Scotians, primarily young people, who have demonstrated talent and potential to become professional artists in theatre, dance, fine craft and design, music, circus arts, media, film, literary, and visual arts. There is no other comparable organization in the country. In 2019, the Talent Trust celebrated its 75th anniversary year featuring former scholarship recipients with a travelling art exhibition, pop-up events in theatre, music, dance, film screenings and more.

The Nova Scotia Talent Trust is a Registered Canadian Charity. The NSTT's Executive Director, reporting to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, is the most senior administrative position. The Executive Director directs and administers all programs and operations and coordinates the activities of the NSTT volunteers.

The Executive Director will represent the organization and advocate for the creative and economic value of the arts in Nova Scotia by supporting pre-professional art students through scholarships and special awards. The Executive Director shall ensure that the directives of the Board are carried out effectively, including health protocols in regards to COVID-19. The Executive Director brings a commitment to elevating the Nova Scotia Talent Trust forward as an inclusive and equitable organization that fully reflects the diversity of the greater arts community. 

The Executive Director of the NSTT is responsible for the implementation, advocacy and communication of the vital role of art scholarships in Mi'kma'ki - Nova Scotia. In addition, the Executive Director develops partnerships with arts organizations, art students, individual donors, artists, the business community and government.

The work of the NSTT is led by a Board of Directors whose voting members are volunteers. In addition, the Executive Director is a non-voting, ex-officio member of the Board and all standing committees established by the Board to attend to the activities essential to attaining the Nova Scotia Talent Trust's goals.

It is the incumbent's responsibility to provide the Board information and advice on matters about the operation of the NSTT and coordinate the delivery of the scholarship and special awards program. In addition, the incumbent represents the NSTT to its volunteer members, outside agencies, government departments, and the public.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have a university degree or equivalent, with 5 -7 years experience in a senior leadership role in the non-profit sector, preferably with the Arts and or a Charitable organization. Fundraising, networking and administrative abilities are essential. Intimate knowledge of and sensitivity to the Nova Scotia arts community is an asset. Openness to mentor scholarship applicants is desirable. In addition, they have demonstrated financial management and accounting skills with direct budgetary responsibility of over $300K per annum, skilled in digital literacy (WordPress, Canva, Zoom, social media platforms, Mailchimp, etc.) and willing to adopt new technologies as required. Must know QuickBooks accounting software, Microsoft Word, SUMAC (or other CRM), and a strong knowledge of Excel fundamentals are essential. 

The candidate must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident and eligible to work in Canada. 

Compensation Package

Salary Range: $45,000 - $50,000 per annum, dependent on qualifications

NS Talent Trust has an extensive benefits package that includes: Life Insurance, Long Term Disability, Medical & Dental coverage. The Cultural Federation of Nova Scotia administers the benefits package. The workweek is based on 40 hours/week. Some evening and weekend work may be required. Self-assigned and working from home is possible. 3 weeks of vacation. 

To be considered for this opportunity, please submit a single PDF file containing a cover letter and a curriculum vitae in confidence to Talent Trust Hiring Committee at director@nstalenttrust.ns.ca

The deadline for applications is 4:00 pm, November 5, 2021

A complete job description is available here

We thank everyone for their interest; the Hiring Committee will only be contacting those candidates shortlisted for an interview. We will ask candidates to bring three references to the interview. Interviews will be held in person or via Zoom, depending on public health guidelines at that time.

The Nova Scotia Talent Trust is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace. It welcomes applications from Indigenous persons, African Canadians, persons with disabilities, racially visible minorities, women, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Consistent with the principles of employment equity, the primary criterion for appointment to this position is Ability, Qualifications and Performance. Candidates who identify as members of one of the groups mentioned above and who wish to self-identify are invited to do so in the cover letter.

Expected Start Date: Monday, January 3, 2022, or sooner

 

CN Halifax Community Board believes in the future of Nova Scotia Artists

Supporting Nova Scotia students on their way to pursue an artistic career is a joy and privilege. Also, partnering with an international corporation like CN through the CN Halifax Community Board for an annual named scholarship is an honour. 

“The Nova Scotia Talent Trust 

highlights exceptional commitments for Nova Scotians to become established artists. The CN Halifax Community Board is honoured to support these scholarships for emerging NS artists with a focus on supporting people and arts, a core principle not only of our board but also a corporate philosophy at CN," states Alan Abraham, Chair, CN Community Board

It is with excitement the Nova Scotia Talent Trust announces the CN Halifax Community Board Scholarship. In spring 2021, CN Halifax Community Board approved a grant of $25,000, which has been invested throuand will support the named scholarship for years to come. 

“The investment in our next generation of Nova Scotia’s artists will enhance and further our cultural landscape. Not only will the monetary support help our scholarship recipients pay for their studies, but it also reaffirms their hard work to become established artists in their discipline. We thank the CN Halifax Community Board for believing in our Nova Scotia artists,” says NSTT Executive Director Jacqueline Steudler. 

The annual CN Halifax Community Board Scholarship of $1,000 will be presented annually to a scholarship recipient who shows exceptional commitment and professional potential as an artist. The first recipient selected by the Scholarship Selection Committee of the NSTT will be announced on September 15, 2021. 

About CN

CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. As the only railroad connecting Canada’s Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 19,500-mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

About Nova Scotia Talent Trust

Since 1944, the Talent Trust has provided more than $2 million to over 1,000 Nova Scotians, primarily young people, who have demonstrated talent and potential to become professional artists in theatre, dance, fine craft and design, music, circus arts, media, film, literary, and visual arts. There is no other comparable organization in the country. In 2019, the Talent Trust celebrated its 75th anniversary year featuring former scholarship recipients with a travelling art exhibition, pop-up events in theatre, music, dance, film screenings and more.  

Want to hear more about the Talent Trust? Please sign up for our newsletter.

 

Want to support the next generation of Nova Scotian artists? Donate today! (smile)

Karen Myatt Adds Her Voice to the Talent Trust Pop Up Series

In continued celebration of our 75th anniversary, former scholarship recipient Karen Myatt will perform a collection of contemporary tunes by Nova Scotia artists with musical accompaniment by Georges Hébert. 

August 31, 2019

12:30 p.m. 

Sackville Landing,
1655 Lower Water St
Halifax Waterfront
(next to the wave).

Free and open to the public.

The duo will be giving a classic jazz/blues twist to songs by Joel Plaskett, In Flight Safety, Erin Costelo, Sloan and more.

In her own word: 

“We are very happy to be part of the celebrations around the 75th anniversary of the Nova Scotia Talent Trust.

It’s an expensive business to develop your skills as a performing artist, with high costs for travel, post-secondary education, and purchasing quality instruments. For many young artists these costs can be a barrier to making the most of their talent.

My scholarship from the Nova Scotia Talent Trust enabled me to study with Janice Jackson (another Talent Trust recipient) and then go on to attend the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City.

Georges was not eligible for a Nova Scotia Talent Trust scholarship, having grown up in New Brunswick, but through his own path to excellence he knows all too well how much help a young musician needs.” 

Karen Myatt

Want to hear more? Please sign up for our newsletter

Want to support the next generation of Nova Scotia artists? Donate today! (smile)

Want to hear more? Please sign up for our newsletter

Want to support the next generation of Nova Scotia artists? Donate today!

In 2019, the Talent Trust is celebrating its 75th  anniversary featuring former scholarship recipients with a travelling art exhibition, pop-up events in theatre, music, and dance, film screenings and more.


The 75th anniversary activities are supported by the province of Nova Scotia, Halifax Regional Municipality, The Craig Foundation, Canadian Federation of Musicians, and Margaret and David Fountain. 

Mary Fay Coady and Jim Fowler join Two Planks and a Passion Theatre’s Summer Cast.

Talent Trust Alumni Mary Fay Coady and Jim Fowler share their theatrical flare in three site-specific productions for Two Planks and a Passion's 2019 summer season. Playing several shows per week from July to mid-September, you can enjoy, In This Light, Frankenstein By Fire and The Ruins. Details below. 

Mary Fay Coady is an actor and Alexander Technique teacher. She has performed with World Tour/ 2b Theatre, Zuppa Theatre, Eastern Front, Chester Playhouse, and Misery, to name a few.

Mary Fay has been nominated for three Robert Merritt Awards, and won in 2018 for Outstanding Performance by a Female Lead. She was awarded Best Theatre Actress in The Coast’s Best of Halifax poll and recently received a Toronto Theatre Critic Award for Best Featured Performance in a Musical. Mary Fay would like to thank her brilliant mother.

Jim Fowler is a graduate of the Dalhousie Acting Program and has worked as an actor in Halifax for the past 25 years. He has taken part in productions with Neptune Theatre, Shakespeare By The Sea, Two Planks And A Passion, Opera Nova Scotia, and Irondale Ensemble Project to name a few. In his work with Irondale, Jim has collaborated with community organizations, educators, and students of all ages across the province, using theatre to delve into difficult social issues and to inspire positive change. He has also been an instructor for Neptune Theatre School, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia High School Drama Festival, and Atlantic Film Festival. 

About the Plays:

In This Light by Catherine Banks

Adapted from Enemy of the People by Ibsen
Dr. Thomasina Burke is a well-respected medical doctor in a rural village in the Annapolis Valley in 1931. Just as her home is poised to reap the benefits of an important new business- a health spa that will bring people from far and wide- Dr. Burke makes a discovery that will challenge her whole community to choose sides in a battle over the very nature of truth, and the power of one person to be heard.

Frankenstein by Fire

Adapted from the novel by Mary Shelley
Haunted by his own loss, Victor Frankenstein becomes obsessed with harnessing the power to give life. Once he discovers how to create a being, he unleashes an unimaginable power he can no longer control as a creator - a Creature who, although not human, desires to be loved. Torn between protecting his family and unable to shake the responsibility for what he has discovered, Victor’s destiny is intertwined with one of the most compelling characters in all literature- a monster who truly appreciates what it is to be human.

The Ruins- By Gillian Clark

Adapted from the Trojan Women by Euripides.
It’s the night of the annual Spring Fire Hall Dance in New Troy Nova Scotia. The parents are dancing in the hall, and the kids are playing in the field, just like every other year. But this year, something is different. Cassandra has seen the future of her little town, and no one will believe her. 

By Fire you ask? Check out this video to find out.

 
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Want to support the next generation of Nova Scotia artists? Donate today! (smile)

Denise & Marc Djokic Celebrate Scotia Music Festival’s 40th Anniversary with Separate Highlight Concerts on May 27 & 28, 2019.

Denise & Marc Djokic bring their talents back to the Maritimes with the Scotia Festival of Music’s annual two-week chamber music festival held in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

 

Highlight Concert #1

Denise Djokic

Mon, May 27, 7:30pm 

Sir James Dunn Theatre, Dalhousie Arts Centre,
6101 University Ave, Halifax, NS

Highlight Concert #2
Marc Djokic

Tue, May 28, 7:30pm
Sir James Dunn Theatre, Dalhousie Arts Centre,
6101 University Ave, Halifax, NS 

Instantly recognized by her “arrestingly beautiful tone colour” (The Strad), cellist Denise Djokic captivates audiences with her natural musical instinct and remarkable combination of strength and sensitivity. Acclaim for her powerful interpretations, bold command of her instrument and insightful playing has earned her world-wide recognition and appearances in some of the most venerable halls. Denise burst onto the international music scene when millions of television viewers watched her performance of Bach at the 2002 Grammy Awards following the lauded release of her self-titled debut recording on SONY Classical. 

Since then, Denise has accrued numerous distinctions and accolades: she has been named one of the top “25 Canadians Who Are Changing Our World” by Maclean’s Magazine, one of “Canada’s Most Powerful Women” by Elle Magazine, and had her life and career chronicled by a special BRAVO! TV documentary entitled “Seven Days, Seven Nights”. A natural leader and advocate for classical music, Denise is equally at home on the podium as a keynote speaker, having presented at forums such as IdeaCity in Toronto and the Women in Leadership Conference at Queen’s University. Denise believes strongly in passing along her knowledge of music and her instrument. She serves on the Faculty of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada each summer, has been a Visiting Professor at the University of Ottawa, and frequently gives masterclasses.

Marc Djokic is a Canadian violinist and winner of the 2017-2018 Prix Goyer. Among other distinctions, he is a Prix Opus laureate and former Canada Council Instrument Bank recipient. Djokic is concertmaster of l’Orchestre classique de Montreal. His debut album, Solo Seven, garnered glowing reviews upon its release in 2018. His next two collaborative albums will be released on the ATMA Classique and Analekta labels in 2019.

Originally from the Maritimes; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Marc first and foremost studied with his father Philippe Djokic, one of Canada’s great soloists and a pupil of the master Ivan Galamian. He continued his studies with David Russell, Donald Weilerstein and Jaime Laredo.

In summer 2019 Marc Djokic will be embarking on his second European tour with solo recitals, chamber music concerts, and masterclasses. From BC Contact to Jeunesses Musicales and Debut Atlantic, Djokic has toured several times throughout Canada as an accomplished chamber musician. As a soloist, Marc Djokic has performed with such prestigious orchestras as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Quebec Symphony Orchestra.

From 2015 to 2017, Mécénat Musica noncerto produced more than 45 music videos featuring Djokic and his collaborations, filmed in unique locations across nine provinces. 

Full biographies can be found on Denise Djokic and Marc Djokic websites.

75th Birthday Celebration and new Partnership with CIOE-97.5FM, May 2, 2019

Come on out and celebrate 

with us on

May 2, 2019 
from 1 - 3 p.m. 
at CIOE-97.5FM

11 Glendale Ave, Unit 4

Lower Sackville, NS

On May 2, 1944 the Nova Scotia Talent Trust's funding papers were signed by Harold Connolly Minister of Industry and Publicity, John E. Lloyd Mayor of Halifax, and Henry F. Munro Superintendent of Education.

We are celebrating our 75th Birthday with a new partnership and the launch of the Talent Trust Artist Spotlight radio show.

Jim Robson, Chairman of CIOE-97.5 FM states: “I am delighted with the newly formed partnership between Nova Scotia Talent Trust and CIOE-97.5 FM on the eve of your amazing 75th Anniversary. The natural synergies flowing between our two cultural organizations will ensure that Nova Scotia's rich treasury of talent across all artistic disciplines is properly recognized, celebrated, and presented to the public through special dedicated radio programs and concerts that are streamed live around the world, along with other cooperative cultural initiatives. Together, we will create infinite opportunities for the enhancement and ongoing development of Nova Scotia's world-class artistic community.”

The Talent Trust Artist Spotlight will be hosted by Breagh MacKinnon, NSTT board member, scholarship alumni, and singer, songwriter with Port Cities. The show will air on the first Thursday of the month at 2 p.m., premiering May 2nd.

“I am honoured and excited to be hosting the “Nova Scotia Talent Trust Artist Spotlight. I look forward to getting to know our Talent Trust Alumni and bringing you unique and original content from some of the many ground-breaking artists we have supported for the past 75 years. Hear stories, performances, and interviews you can't find anywhere else!” Breagh MacKinnon.

Since 1944, the NSTT has provided more than $2 million to over 1,000 Nova Scotians, primarily young people, who have demonstrated talent and potential to become professional artists in theatre, dance, fine craft and design, music, circus arts, media, film, literary, and visual arts. There is no other comparable organization in the country.

For more information, go to nstalenttrust.ca

ABOUT CIOE-97.5FM
CIOE-97.5FM is a not-for-profit radio station operated by the Cobequid Radio Society (CRS) whose board of directors reflect a diversity of backgrounds and are representative of communities across the region that we serve. Established in 2015 CIOE houses an in house concert studio, art gallery and broadcast premisies.

CIOE 97.5FM is the Voice and Home of East Coast Music, committed to over 97.5 Hours a week of East Coast Music of all genres. CIOE’s primary mission is to deliver a top quality broadcast service whose inclusive community driven spoken word initiatives, special music based programs, and eclectic hybrid music format, is dedicated to informing, educating, stimulating, and entertaining listeners of all ages and promoting and exposing the talents of East Coast Artists throughout Atlantic Canada, nationally, and beyond.
For more information go to communityradio.ca

ABOUT NOVA SCOTIA TALENT TRUST Since 1944, the Talent Trust has provided more than $2 million to over 1,000 Nova Scotians, primarily young people, who have demonstrated talent and potential to become professional artists in theatre, dance, fine craft and design, music, circus arts, media, film, literary, and visual arts. There is no other comparable organization in the country. In 2019, the Talent Trust is celebrating its 75th anniversary year featuring former scholarship recipients with a traveling art exhibition, pop-up events in theatre, music, and dance, film screenings and more.

The NSTT is supported by the 2011 Canada Games Legacy Fund, RBC Foundation, The Craig Foundation, the Creative Nova Scotia Leadership Council, Dalhousie Music in Medicine HEALS Program, Support4Culture, NSTT Foundation, Cecilia Concerts, Visual Arts Nova Scotia, Theatre Nova Scotia, Debut Atlantic, Craft Nova Scotia, immediaC, Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, Community Radio CIOE 97.5 FM, Symphony Nova Scotia, Neptune Theatre, FIN Atlantic International Film Festival, RadioOui98.5, Mocean Dance, Art Gallery of NS, Cape Breton University Art Gallery, MSVU Art Gallery, Halifax Central Library, Halifax Municipality, and Arts Nova Scotia. The NSTT is pleased to work in partnership with the province to develop and promote our cultural resources for all Nova Scotians.

Suzie LeBlanc sings The Mystery of Carlo G in Wolfville on April 13, 2019.

photo from Suzie LeBlanc's website

Suzie LeBlanc joins Bruce Dickey & 

Catalina Vicens in the performance of a newly discovered, 17th century manuscript containing more than 80 works for voice, keyboard and theorbo, but identified only by a first name, an initial and a smudge. 

Saturday April 13, 7pm

Acadia University 

Manning Memorial Chapel 

45 Acadia Street, Wolfville

Recently appointed to the Order of Canada, renowned Acadian soprano Suzie LeBlanc was born in Edmunston, New-Brunswick. She sang in the choirs of her native Acadia and studied dance and harpsichord before studying singing in London, UK. From there, she began an international singing career specializing in early baroque repertoire; exploring and recording a substantial amount of previously unpublished material while resident in Europe. Her thirst and curiosity for new vistas then led her toward the repertoire of French mélodies, lieder, contemporary music, and Acadian folk music, as well as exploring the art of improvisation with the ensemble Mélosphere.

Suzie’s recordings have received international praise and several prestigious awards: a Grammy award for Lully’s Thésée; two Opus awards – best World Music recording for “Tempi con Variazioni”, and best contemporary music CD for her Messiaen cd; and a CINI award (Italy) for the opera “Orfeo” by Sartorio in which she sings the leading role. She has recorded for ATMA, Analekta, Harmonia Mundi, Hyperion, Chandos, Teldec, Das Alte Werk, among others.

She worked with The Consort of Musicke, Fretwork, Musica Antiqua Köln, Sequentia, the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Tragicomedia, the Hilliard Ensemble, Concerto Palatino, Redbyrd and the Purcell Quartet as well as with several symphony orchestras in Canada and the US. Concerts have taken her to Festivals all over the world, as well as to the Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), Wigmore Hall (London) and the Konzerthaus in Vienna. On the opera stage, she has performed for De Nederlandse Opera, Festival de Beaune, Opéra de Montréal, the Boston Early Music Festival, Tanglewood, Festival Vancouver and Early Music Vancouver.

For her full & comprehensive biography please visit her website at www.suzieleblanc.com. 

Get a sense of the music: 

Karen Myatt Helps Celebrate 200 Years of Province House on March 20, 2019

The Province House celebrates its 200th Anniversary with a House Concert Series open to the public.

Recipient Karen Myatt adds her voice to mark this milestone with Jazzing up the Red Room:

March 20, 2019
7:30 p.m., Red Chamber, Province House

Myatt joins Daniel Matto and pianist Holly Arsenault to pay homage to their favourite jazz singers in the oldest legislative building in Canada.

Join the trio for a 2-set soiree of new and old smooth and sultry, classic and contemporary standards.

This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are limited to 60 and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration will open on March 6, 2019.

Meet the 2018 Nova Scotia Talent Trust Special Award Winners

Today we were able to grant 13 special awards at our annual Special Awards Ceremony.

We recognized our 2018 scholarship and Special Award recipients at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at the Halifax Central Library in a ceremony attended by His Honour The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, QC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.

Created to support the career of contralto Portia White 74 years ago, the Talent Trust has continued to support talented Nova Scotian artists as they pursue their studies toward establishing professional careers in the arts.

Celebrate with them!

Theatre artist Rebecca Wolfe.

Halifax theatre performer Rebecca Wolfe received the $1,500 Talent Trust Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Artistic Achievement, the NSTT’s highest honour for a student in any discipline. Wolfe studies acting in the Humber College Theatre Performance Program in Toronto, Ontario.


Presented for the first time in 2013, the two 2011 Canada Games Young Artist of Excellence Awards, valued at $10,000 each, will be awarded to any recipient, regardless of age, from any artistic discipline, who best exemplifies the qualities embraced by the Nova Scotia Talent Trust, that of the utmost commitment, promise, exceptional technique, talent and the highest achievement of excellence, someone who demonstrates the passion and drive to become a professional Nova Scotia artist in their field of discipline.

These two awards will be granted every December until 2022 and are the legacy of the 2011 Canada Games Young Artists of Excellence Program.

In 2018, the two $10,000 awards were received by Head of Saint Margaret's Bay dancer Claire Campbell and visual artist Curtis Botham from Stellarton.

Dancer Claire Campbell

Claire Campbell (Head of Saint Margaret's Bay), 2018 recipient of a 2011 Canada Games Young Artist of Excellence Award, is currently studying ballet and contemporary dance at L'École Superieure de Ballet du Québec in Montréal, Québec.

Visual artist Curtis Botham.

Visual artist Curtis Botham (Stellarton), 2018 recipient of a 2011 Canada Games Young Artist of Excellence Award, recently completed the NSCAD University Residency Program in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.





There are 10 more Special Award recipients, each of whom demonstrates exceptional potential to become professional artists. We're pleased to introduce them here.

Painter Letitia Fraser.

Painter Letitia Fraser (Halifax) is the recipient of the $1,500 RBC Emerging Artist Award for visual arts. Fraser studies painting at NSCAD University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. (Award supported by RBC Emerging Artist Program.)

Clarinetist Lucas March.

Clarinetist Lucas March (New Glasgow) is the recipient of the $1000 Yue Lih “Lee” and Marion Kuo Award for exceptional commitment and potential in music as an instrumentalist. March is currently in private study with Halifax music teacher Eileen Walsh. (Award supported by Marion Kuo and Earl Wadden.)

Visual artist Brianna West.

Visual artist Brianna West (Halifax) is the recipient of the $1,000 Charlotte Wilson-Hammond/Visual Arts Nova Scotia Award. West currently studies fashion and textiles at NSCAD University in Halifax. (Award supported by Charlotte Wilson-Hammond and Visual Arts Nova Scotia.)

Opera singer Breanna Miller.

Opera singer Breanna Miller (Hubley) is the recipient of the $1,000 Talent Trust Portia White Award for voice. Miller studies at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. (Award supported by the Music-in-Medicine and Humanities-HEALS Program, Dalhousie University.)

Contemporary dancer Lucie Schmidt.

Contemporary dancer Lucie Schmidt (Dartmouth) is the recipient of the $2,000 Robert George Jackson Award for dance. Schmidt studies at The School of Toronto Dance Theatre (Award supported by the Jackson family.)

Theatre artist Angus Stevens.

Angus Stevens (Port Medway) is the recipient of the $500 Theatre Nova Scotia Award for theatre. Stevens is studying theatre performance at Randolph College for the Performing Arts in Toronto, Ontario. (Award supported by Theatre Nova Scotia.)

Pianist Cindy Thong.

Pianist Cindy Thong (Head of Jeddore) is the recipient of the $1,000 Tietje Zonneveld Award and is studying at La Haute École de Musique de Genève in Geneva, Switzerland. (Award supported by Tietje Zonneveld.)

Composer Jessica MacIsaac.

Composer Jessica MacIsaac (Halifax) is the recipient of the $750 Kenneth Elloway Award for composition. She is studying at Dalhousie University. (Award supported by the Elloway family.)

Dancer Carrigan MacDonald.

Ballet and contemporary dancer Carrigan MacDonald (Hammonds Plains) is the recipient of the $1000 Janice Merritt Flemming Award and is currently studying at L'École Superieure de Ballet du Québec in Montréal, QC. (Award supported by the Flemming family.)

French horn player Mimisu Lee.

French horn player Mimisu Lee (Halifax) is the recipient of the $1,000 Raymond Simpson Award for music. Mimisu is studying at The Glenn Gould School in Toronto, Ontario. (Award supported by the Simpson family.)




In addition to the Special Awards announced today, the Nova Scotia Talent Trust gave out scholarships to 65 recipients earlier this year. You can find a list of the 2018 Nova Scotia Talent Trust scholarship recipients below.

The NSTT’s scholarship application deadline date for Spring/Summer study is March 1, 2019. The deadline for Fall/Winter study is May 1, 2019.


Congratulations to the Talent Trust and Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship Recipients

Dance — Ballet

• Julia Barkhouse, Dartmouth 
• Olivia MacLean, Dartmouth
• Katherine McDonald, Halifax
• Mollie Oates-Johnson, Dartmouth
• Maggie Oates-Johnson, Dartmouth
• Aidan Vaudreuil, Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship

Dance — Ballet/Contemporary

• Chloe Bruce, Dartmouth
• Claire Campbell, Head of St. Margaret’s Bay, Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship
• Carrigan MacDonald, Hammonds Plains
• Stan Tonin, Windsor Junction

Dance — Modern/Contemporary

• Gabrielle Kachan, Halifax
• Lucie Schmidt, Lakeview
• Denver Scott, Halifax

Dance — Choreography

• Aliah Schwartz, Canning

Music — Keyboard (Piano)

• Devin Huang, Bedford
• Lala Lee, Halifax
• Chantal Peng, Wolfville
• Dakota Scott-Digout, Barrington
• Andrew Son, Halifax
• Cindy Thong, Halifax
• Alex (Zixuan) Yang, Bedford

Music — Strings (Cello)

• India Yeshe Gailey, Wolfville

Music — Strings (Violin)

• Leo Hanada, Halifax
• Rose Hanada, Halifax
• Wyatt Johnson, Halifax
• Lilith Richter-Stephenson, Dartmouth

Music — Strings (Bass Guitar)

• Mark Carroll, Valley
• Aidan Zann-Roland, Truro

Music — Voice (Opera)

• Meagan Adams, Halifax
• Ruusu-Maaria Brousseau, Halifax
• Hannah Ernst, Lunenburg
• Laura Johnston, Prospect Bay
• Emma MacEachern, Truro
• Breanna Miller, Hubley
• Natalie Mitchell, New Glasgow
• Morgan Reid, Sydney
• Abigail Sinclair, Halifax
• Shanice Skinner, New Glasgow

Music — Composition

• Ben Coleman, New Glasgow
• Gavin Fraser, Antigonish
• Jessica MacIsaac, Halifax
• Taylor MacGillivray, Halifax

Music — Brass (French Horn)

• Mimisu Lee, Halifax

Music — Brass (Euphonium)

• Ross Macintosh, Truro

Music — Woodwind (Clarinet)

• Lucas March, New Glasgow

Theatre — Acting

• Angus Stevens, Port Medway
• Rebecca Wolfe, Dartmouth

Theatre — Music Theatre

• Katie Cochrane, Bridgewater
• Brent Raddall, Summerville Centre

Visual/Fine Arts —Interdisciplinary

• Emma Allain, Halifax
• Helah Cooper, Lunenburg
• Arjun Lal, Halifax

Visual/Fine Arts — Design/Applied Craft

• Jodie Fox, Mosquodoboit Harbour
• Isaac Fresia, Halifax
• Andrew Gilmour, Halifax
• Jenna Lee, Bedford
• Ahmed Naji, Halifax

Visual/Fine Arts — Painting/Drawing

• NAT chantel, Dartmouth
• Curtis Botham, Bedford
• Caitlin McGuire, Halifax, Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship
• Letitia Fraser, Halifax, Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship
• Madeleine West, Halifax

Visual/Fine Arts — Textiles/Fashion

• Brianna West, Halifax
• Jessie McLaughlin, Bedford

Visual/Fine Arts — Typeface Design

• Lee Yuen-Rapati, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia Arts Endowment Fund Scholarship

The Scholarship Deadline Countdown is On!

May 1, 5:00 p.m. Atlantic time. That's when our online application portal closes. That's seven days from today.

nstalenttrust.ns.ca/Scholarships/Apply

A few things to keep in mind:

• Don't wait to apply. (Technology always knows when you're in a hurry.)

• Use Google Chrome to access the online application form. (It's free to download if you don't have it already.)

• Emerging Nova Scotia artists across disciplines can apply. 

• Your studies don't have to be at a university.

• You don't have to be "young" to apply. It's about where you are in your artistic studies.

If you have questions that aren't answered on our website, or if you run into trouble with the online application, we're here to help: scholarship(at)nstalenttrust.ns.ca

May 1 at 5 p.m. (ADT) Scholarship Application Deadline

Don't wait! Scholarship application deadline for fall/winter studies in the arts is May 1, 2018 at 5 p.m.  

You may have seen reminders popping up in your social media feed over the past few days: if you're an emerging Nova Scotia artist and you're looking for some financial assistance in your upcoming studies, we want to hear from you. 

The Talent Trust provides scholarships to Nova Scotians who demonstrate exceptional potential and commitment to become established artists in their chosen fields.

Our annual scholarships include theatre, film/new media, literary arts, dance, music, voice, circus arts, visual arts, and design.

For all the details and to apply online, visit nstalenttrust.ns.ca and follow the scholarship link.

Time is flying: May 1 at 5 p.m. ADT is the deadline. If you're ready to complete your application, here are a few tips: 

• Start your application early to avoid technical problems. 
• Use Google Chrome as your browser. 
• Get in touch with us if you have questions or can't upload a file. 

P.S. If you run into difficulties, Jacqueline Steudler is here to help at scholarship(at)nstalenttrust.ns.ca

The Talent Trust Welcomes our New Communications Coordinator

The Talent Trust is thrilled to welcome Stacey Cornelius to the Talent Trust's administrative team as Communications Coordinator. As we gear up for an incredible 75th anniversary year in 2019, Stacey's experience in marketing and communications as well as her dedication to the arts will be critical to sharing our story. 

We are incredibly excited for the festivities to commence, and will mark this platinum year with many special events featuring Talent Trust's prestigious recipients past and present. There has not been a more important time than now to celebrate the incredible talent of Nova Scotia's emerging artists whom we have been fortunate to support for three quarters of a century.

All the best,
Erin Sparks, Chair, NSTT