EDMONTON — Alberta has its first commissioner of music.

The province says Jennifer Venance will fill the role.

Venance has worked in the government developing the school curriculum and has more than two decades’ experience as a musician and a music educator.

She is to act as the liaison between the province and the music industry.

Her duties include helping support and create new opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs in the business.

The appointment is part of Alberta’s broader music action plan, which was launched in April to promote music economically and culturally.

Braedyn Funke, press secretary to Arts Minister Tanya Fir, said in a statement Monday that the position is funded through existing ministry resources approved in February’s budget.

He said Venance’s salary and compensation will be publicly reported.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 24, 2026.

The Canadian Press