MESSAGE
FROM THE DIRECTOR
AUGUST 2023
Dear Friends,
I extend my warmest greetings to you as we reconnect through the long-awaited update from my agency. After a pandemic hiatus, we have all returned, at full speed, with a little more wear and tear but filled with excitement and anticipation for the events that lie ahead. It feels particularly exciting and optimistic as we have returned to much in-person performances, launch of new seasons, and face-to-face conferences. The AKAM artists were kept busy throughout the pandemic creating music, releasing albums, performing virtual concerts, and discovering new and creative ways to engage with audiences. But, nothing replaces the human contact we desperately craved between artists to audiences, audiences to artists, audiences to audiences, all sharing the passion in the arts.
As we embark on a brand-new fall season, our stages will once again come alive with a vibrant array of activities. The AKAM roster offers spellbinding concerto concerts to breathtaking recitals and chamber performances. We have curated new programs that showcase the immense talent fostered by Andrew Kwan Artists Management.
AKAM is excited to announce our first addition to the roster in 3 years. Solidaridad is an all women, multi-size ensemble who defines grace, rhythm, excitement performing tangos and South American music. An extension to the artistic genre normally offered, be prepared to be enthralled by their artistic prowess and witness the magic that unfolds on stage.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support, and I invite you to join us on this enchanting journey as we celebrate the power of art and its ability to captivate our hearts and minds of your audiences and communities.
With warm regards,
ANDREW KWAN, DIRECTOR
Andrew Kwan Artists Management Inc.
ABOUT
ANDREW KWAN
ARTISTS MANAGEMENT INC.
Since 1991, Andrew Kwan Artists Management Inc. is a full-service artist management company that specialises in representing and promoting some of the most talented and accomplished artists in the Canadian entertainment industry. The company is led by founder Andrew J. Kwan, a highly respected and accomplished artist manager. AKAM creates a platform connecting artists with communities to engage their stories, journeys, narratives, and artistic visions. We remain a leader in the industry, and are committed to the advancement of our roster, the artform, and the music, both in Canada and abroad.
DIRECTOR
ANDREW J. KWAN, B.A., ARCT, FTCL, FCSI
Andrew J. Kwan is a seasoned professional in the arts industry, with a career spanning over three decades. As an artist manager involved with over 4000 performances spanning the globe, he has a proven track record of success, having helped guide the careers of some of Canada’s most talented, prolific, and innovative artists.
Throughout his career, Andrew has been awarded CAPACOA’s Agent of the Year (2014), Ontario Contact’s Agent of the Year (2013) and BC Touring Council Agent of the Year (2011). For the past decade, he has also produced the Mazzoleni Masters series at The Royal Conservatory of Music. He has a proven track record of identifying and developing new talent, as well as guiding the careers of established artists. He is known for his ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities, and for his dedication to ensuring that his clients' interests are always protected.
In addition to his work as an artist manager, Andrew is also a guest speaker and university lecturer, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of musicians and industry professionals. He is frequently called upon to speak at conferences and events, and is highly respected for his insights and advice. Since 1996, Mr. Kwan has been on faculty at The Glenn Gould School. He is also a graduate lecturer at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Music and in 2022, appointed to Western University’s Don Wright Faculty of Music. In 2012, he was an advisor developing the Music Industry Arts and Performance Program at Toronto’s Centennial College, and served as Chair for this program’s Advisory Committee from 2012-2017. Andrew is also an active supporter of various charitable and community organizations, using his platform and influence to raise awareness and support for important causes. He is on the board of Prairie Debut, Axis Music, and has served as a mentor to CAPACOA's The Succession Plan.
Mr. Kwan holds a B.A. in Economics, as well as a Non-Profit Management & Leadership Diploma from York University. He also completed his Fellowship from the Canadian Securities Institute. In music, he holds an ARCT in Piano Performance from The Royal Conservatory and the designations of LTCL and FTCL from Trinity College, London, England. He began his music lessons from his mother and continued at St. Michael’s Choir School.
With a combination of industry experience, expertise, and an outstanding reputation, Andrew J. Kwan is considered one of the most influential and respected artist managers in the music industry. His dedication to his clients, combined with his knowledge and passion for music, make him an invaluable asset to any artist or organization.
LINKS
ACADEMIC AFFILIATIONS
The Glenn Gould School
University of Toronto – Faculty of Music
GOVERNMENT FUNDING
The Canada Council for the Arts
