Sydney, Australia – 23 September 2010 – The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) today confirmed that Mr Denis Handlin AM, Chairman & CEO, Sony Music Entertainment Australia & New Zealand has been elected Chairman following the departure of previous Chair, Mr Ed St John.

Mr Handlin, presently enjoying his fortieth year in the industry, is the longest serving member of the ARIA Board.  Mr Handlin has been a member of the ARIA board since 1984, and during that time, has fulfilled various roles.  He spent an unprecedented 10 consecutive years as ARIA Chairman up to 2008, and is widely credited with driving and uniting ARIA, ensuring the successful creation of ARIA #1 Chart Awards, the Hall of Fame, the growth of the ARIA Awards and significant legislative developments on digital and anti piracy matters, with a strong focus on fostering government relations.

Mr Handlin said today, “I am absolutely delighted to once again have the opportunity to take up the role of Chairman of ARIA.  It is a position I hold in the highest regard and I welcome the Board’s support. Over the next seven weeks we’ll witness the rolling out of the ARIA event calendar, including the ARIA Awards at the magnificent Sydney Opera House on November 7.  Government relations will be high on the agenda, particularly the ongoing and serious challenge of illegal file sharing and its impact on the industry.”

In 2005, Denis Handlin was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to the development of the Australian music industry and of Australian artists and for his contribution to charitable causes.  In June 2009, Mr Handlin was awarded the APRA Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music.

Mr Handlin is a founding member of the Sony Foundation, which was established in 1998. The Foundation has raised over $13 million for charitable causes.  Mr Handlin is also a Patron of Youth off the Streets.

About ARIA

ARIA is a national industry association representing major and independent record producers, manufacturers and distributors. It acts as an advocate for the Australian music industry, administers the labelling code of practice, provides a ‘blanket’ non-exclusive licensing function for copyright users and compiles industry information and research. For more information: www.aria.com.au

Blue Pie Records is proud to be an ARIA label member.