Showcase
The First Nations have long influenced Western art forms. Today, many First Peoples have carried their traditions into the mainstream of modern culture. Look through our showcase to meet some of the brightest talents of today’s Aboriginal music scene.
Aboriginal Soundscapes
The soundscape of Canadian Aboriginal artists who have found inspiration through the drum extends beyond the well known Buffy Ste. Marie and Robbie Robertson. Get the background on the showcase artists and today's scene.
Jerry Alfred
A member of the Crow Clan of the Northern Tutchone people in the Yukon, Jerry Alfred is a traditional "Song Keeper" who merged the music of his ancestors with his love of Bob Dylan and other modern guitar greats.
John Kim Bell
Rising from Broadway musicals to an apprenticeship under Leonard Bernstein, John Kim Bell, a Mohawk, has become a major promoter and philanthropist of Aboriginal music.
Barbara Croall
An Odawa from Manitoulin Island, Barbara Croall is an internationally renowned composer.
Jani Lauzon
Jani Lauzon is a Metis flutist, singer and actress whose work is familiar from stage, television, and recordings.
Kendra Tagoona
Incorporating her Inuit roots with ballet, jazz, and modern dance, Kendra Tagoona is an accomplished performing artist who has brought the ancient art of throatsinging into her repertoire.
Natalie Picard
Nathalie Picard, Huron-Wendat musician and composer, was born in Quebec City who has studied flute, composition, jazz, and Cuban music, among other influences.
Red Blaze Band
Inspired by the country music of Hank Williams and Merle Haggard, Ray Villebrun is a Saskatchewan born guitarist and leader of the Red Blaze Band.
Leela Gilday
A singer and songwriter from the Dene Nation of the Northwest Territories, Leela Gilday is an award-winning artist for her contemporary folk albums.
Tzo'Kam
A family of folk singers from the Lil'wat Nation, Tzo'kam have performed throughout the United States and Canada and work extensively within Aboriginal communities.
Cris Villebrun - Tootoosis
A teenage fiddler from the Cree Nation, Cris has performed with his father Ray in the Red Blaze Band and has won several competitions throughout Canada.
