Joel Plaskett won the SOCAN-sponsored songwriter of the year award – as well as album, male artist recording and pop/rock artist recording of the year (all for his triple album, Three) – at the 2009 Music Nova Scotia Awards, held Nov. 8 at the Mariners Centre in Yarmouth, N.S. SOCAN member & industry relations executive Tim Hardy and Yarmouth mayor Phil Mooney co-presented the songwriting award.

"I’m really honoured to be part of this community, I love the Maritimes, and I think it’s great that Music Nova Scotia can put on this event and bring everyone together," said Plaskett after earning the male artist recording of the year trophy.

Rowdy rock group The Stanfields earned new artist/group recording and group recording of the year for their self-titled EP. Guitarist Dale Murray also won a pair of trophies, as musician and producer of the year. Dave Carroll's dispute with United Airlines baggage handlers and the resulting video, "United Breaks Guitars," earned him two awards, for video and digital artist of the year. Jenn Grant picked up best female artist, while Charlie A'Court was named entertainer of the year – an award based on online voting.

Cape Breton singer-songwriter Bruce Guthro co-hosted the gala (along with comedian Jimmy Flynn) and also performed at the ceremonies, which capped Nova Scotia Music Week -- three days of performances and workshops. During the week, SOCAN's Tim Hardy provided an info session to the "Bringin' It Home Series" community presenters, emphasizing the importance of music licensing and explaining how their tariff payments go to SOCAN members as royalties.

For more information, and a complete list of winners, visit the Music Nova Scotia website.