Music for the People concert returning for fourth edition this September

She told the TNRD that the event will once again be a way to honour Rod’s legacy. Last year’s edition was the first without Rod, but Margit said at the time that she had promised Rod that she would continue to honour his music.

“Rod was very proud of his culture. He was also a world class musician and an incredible song writer,” Margit said at the TNRD meeting. “He felt the power of music to heal and communicate would transform spaces and he’s right. Bringing all these different cultures together in one area does promote healing.”

New this year is the Rod Littlesky Bandura Music Scholarship, which is another way to honour Rod and his legacy.

“This scholarship is a way to honour Rod and the vision he had for this event,” Margit added. “It’s about giving back to Indigenous Peoples and uplifting those with a passion for music to help find their voice and pursue their dreams.

“It’s open to any Indigenous person, any age and from any band.”

Submissions can be made online until 9:00 a.m. on Aug. 25, and the winner will be announced at the festival on Sept. 7. They’ll get a musical instrument of their choice, along with one year of music lessons from Long & McQuade.

The 2025 edition of Music for the People concert is scheduled to run between 6:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. on Sept. 7. The Kwséltkten Farmers’ & Artisan Market will also run from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering attendees traditional Indigenous food as well as arts and crafts.

“This is a meeting of different kinds of music and cultures,” Artistic Director Doug Perry said. “We have the Kamloops Symphony. We have a rock band We’ve got First Nations drummers and dancers, so it’s really entertaining and its educational.

“The setting over at the arbour is so spiritual and warm. It’s a beautiful place to have this show and it is free.”

by Victor Kaisar

Music for the People concert returning for fourth edition this September

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