A key player in Saskatchewan’s music scene has died.

Derek Bachman, executive director of SaskMusic, passed this week of a brief illness.

“Our music community both here and abroad has suffered a huge loss,” a statement on the SaskMusic Facebook page read. “His passing leaves an enormous hole in our hearts.”

Bachman was heavily involved in Saskatchewan’s music scene for nearly 20 years. He joined the SaskMusic staff in 2008 before accepting the executive director position this past April.

He worked behind-the-scenes on numerous festivals across the province and was an integral part of the Western Canadian Music Awards, the 2007 Juno Awards in Saskatoon and the 2012 Canadian Country Music Week.

Musicians across the province took to social media to express their condolences as news of his passing spread.

“Derek was a pillar of the Saskatchewan music community who selflessly contributed to the success of our band and countless others over the years,” The Sheepdogs wrote. “In an industry where everyone is trying to get ahead, Derek instead put everyone else first, not for his own gain, but for the success of others and the betterment of the Saskatchewan music scene.”

“Last night we lost a close musical ally, mentor, and friend. Our hearts are broken,” members of the band Foam Lake posted Wednesday.

“If you've ever plucked a note or hummed a melody you owe it to the world to make the make sure his memory and his impact are never forgotten or taken for granted,” added Regina group Library Voices.

Bachman was 38.