Celebrating Exceptional Volunteerism
Congratulations to John-Michael Erlendson!
Recognizing a young business professional, 40 and under, who has demonstrated exemplary volunteer leadership in the arts, Business / Arts is thrilled to name John-Michael Erlendson as our 2022 Arnold Edinborough Award recipient.
In his career as Transformation Lead for an international software company, John-Michael specializes in business process management and strategic development. As a volunteer, he is a visionary, a force multiplier and a team leader. In his role as General Manager and President of SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival, John-Michael is dedicated to providing world-class arts, powerful arts education, and life-changing experiences to a range of audiences.
Combining his passion for music with his business expertise, John-Michael has steered the festival from its humble roots to a well renowned, well-loved festival in a prominent position in the a cappella world. Building partnerships with allied arts organizations worldwide, he has worked to integrate all types of a cappella music into one festival that celebrates the power of voice.
John-Michael also recognizes the importance of cultivating the next generation of performers and arts leaders. He is committed to mentoring artists, helping leaders get the resources they need to build groups and giving them spaces to showcase their talents.
Here’s what others have to say:
John-Michael inspires and leads by example. No task is too big or too small. He volunteers to MC concerts and special events, set up sound systems and stages, transport artists, lead workshops, and act as a SING! ambassador. As chair of SING! Board meetings, John-Michael empowers board members so that every voice is heard and every opinion is counted. At age 37, this young man’s thought leadership and volunteering have made a significant difference to the cultural landscape of Canada. – Patricia Silver, Co-Manager, SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival
He’s talented, smart, intuitive and collaborative, all critical qualities in a leader. He is always aspiring for greater opportunities for his singing groups and the organizations he works with and pursues these strategically. He has built partnerships with allied arts organizations worldwide, which have resulted in putting the SING! Festival on the world stage as one of the top a cappella festivals internationally. – William King, Director of Strategy and Engagement, SING! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival
Arnold Edinborough Award Partner:
Congratulations to all of the Award Recipients!
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