Meet Our Leadership Team
Melissa Anderson
President – Director Operations
USA – Europe Melissa Anderson brings a strong background in administration, community engagement, and organizational leadership. Melissa has held many administrative positions internationally, in many different fields. and is a Former Assistant A&R Agent for the former Arista Records. Nominated by International Singers and Songwrites Association as a Song wrriter of the Year 2024. She has been honored many times in The Marquis Whos Who of American Women, Whos Who of Industry and Finance and several others. Author of three books and publisher of two magazines, Founder and head of Circle of Ancient Sisters Inc. Her work focuses on expanding IPMA’s global reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that independent performers have access to meaningful opportunities. Melissa is known for her strategic vision, compassionate leadership style, and commitment to creating inclusive spaces where artists can flourish.
Alfred Willowhawk Vice President
USA – Alfred Willowhawk is a respected performer, educator, and community leader with decades of experience supporting artists across diverse traditions. As Director of Creative Programs, His leadership blends deep cultural insight with a passion for uplifting independent performers and fostering authentic artistic expression. Alfred oversees
Artist showcases. Community Events, Education Initives. Creative Development Programs
Prudence Priest
Director of Cultural Arts & Heritage
USA – Europe – Prudence Priest is the Ambassador of the Baltic States Romuva Tradition, Member European Counsil of Ethnic Religions. She is an award winning artist and the translator of many ancient manuscripts. A linguist and author, She brings a lifetime of experience in cultural arts, storytelling, and community leadership.
Her work focuses on:
Preserving artistic traditions, Supporting cross‑cultural performance, Highlighting heritage‑based creative expression. Prudence is known for her dedication to honoring diverse artistic lineages and ensuring they remain vibrant and visible within the global arts community.
Joe Funderburk
Director of Performance Arts & Media Relations,
USA – Lovingly know as Ember, Ember is an accomplished music producer, sound and equipment expert and adept at every phase of the music production from concept to mastering the final product. Living and working around the Nashville Area, he has worked with many known artist both in the production process as well as backup vocals. He has been in the music industry for more than 30 yrs. Working on many releases as sound engineer, producer, and even sometimes musician. He works around the globe producing just about every genre of music. Founder of his own Nashville Music Studio. Dragonstone Studios. and Thunder Audio Productions.
At IPMA, he leads: Performance programming, Artist Spotlights, Media Outreach, Music TV and Radio collaborations.
Ember’s dynamic presence and deep understanding of performance make her a powerful advocate for independent artists seeking visibility and recognition.
William Brigley
Nova Scotia, Canada – William is the founder of United Council of Esoteric & Independent Platforms (UCEIP), Hacks & Facts, as well as co-founder of IPR Radio. William’s unique skills in most internet systems as well as the music industry makes him invaluable in the area of meta data, artist internet presence, radio placement, and design. William assists in procurment of music, entertainment venues of Canada and worldwide as well as ethics and standards.
Williams professional calm demeanor and knowledge of internet systems makes him a powerful advocate for independant artists who need assistance with visibility through web based platforms.
Brian Henke
Brian is a world class , award winning musician. Brians knowledge and skill brings a great opportunity for the new and seasoned to mentorship and experienced advice. Brian is also the musical director of many festivals and venues on the East coast and knows performance. Brinas level head and great sense of humor brings a deeper understanding of the musicians life, trials and what it takes to make a successful career in performing arts.
Adam Rovnanik
Daniel Mach
🌍 A Team United by Purpose
Together, the IPMA leadership team works to:
- Celebrate independent performers
- Expand global visibility for artists
- Maintain fair and transparent award processes
- Build meaningful community connections
- Support creative innovation across traditions
Their combined experience ensures that IPMA remains a trusted, inspiring, and artist‑centered organization.