‘Music for the People’ returns to Kamloops for fifth anniversary

Music for the People Society said the event continues its mission of fostering cultural understanding, healing, and reconciliation through music while honouring the legacy of event co-founder Rod “Little Sky” Bandura.

The event will feature individual and collaborative performances from the Kamloops Symphony and Sage Hills Singers, Drummers and Dancers, alongside musicians Margit Bandura and Henry Small.

“Headlining the musical acts will be the internationally acclaimed music group the Spiritual Warriors, blending Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists in a celebration of music, culture, and reconciliation,” said Music for the People Society.

“Additionally, attendees will be able to purchase traditional Indigenous crafts and art from the ‘Music for the People Artisan Market’, open from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.”

Organizers are also brining back the ‘Rod Littlesky Bandura Music Scholarship,’ which was created to uplift Indigenous peoples with a passion for music.

Scholarship includes an instrument of the winner’s choice, along with one year’s worth of music lessons at Long & McQuade.

Submissions for the scholarship will be accepted through the Music for the People website until August 31 at 9 a.m., with the winner announced at the event.

“Last year, through the ‘Rod Littlesky Bandura Music Scholarship’, we were honoured to award a guitar to Cash Charters. It was a wonderful and priceless experience to be a part of,” said Bandura.

“It was a meaningful way to give back to Indigenous Peoples and support aspiring musicians in finding their voice, developing their talents, and pursuing their dreams. We are excited to bring the scholarship back for a second year and continue investing in the next generation of Indigenous artists.”

The event is free to attend, and the non-profit Music for the People Society welcomes people of all ages to attend.

Donations will be accepted at the entrance and will go towards supporting the Society’s work.

“Additionally, the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, a British Columbia-based organization that provides counselling, court support, information, referrals, and workshops, to survivors, will be on site to smudge and answer any questions,” said the Music for the People Society.

The fifth annual Music for the People concert will go ahead on Sunday, September 13 from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m.

“Thank you to all our sponsors, both returning and new, for believing in the heart of this event,” said Bandura.

“Music for the People wouldn’t exist without the collective efforts of our sponsors, musicians, artisans, and volunteers. Together, we’re creating a space where Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices and experiences come together to be heard and celebrated.”

by Elora McCormack

‘Music for the People’ returns to Kamloops for fifth anniversary

Our Community