‘Music for the People’ Marks Fifth Anniversary with an Evening of Music, Culture, and Reconciliation
Kamloops, B.C. - On September 13, 2026, Music for the People – A Cultural Experience marked its fifth anniversary, bringing more than 2000 people together at the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour for an evening of music, culture, and connection. Created to foster reconciliation and strengthen connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, the award-winning event featured music, dancing, storytelling, and opportunities for cultural sharing throughout the evening.
“When Rod and I first imagined ‘Music for the People’, we wanted to create a place where people could come together, listen to one another, experience different cultures, and find connection through music,” said Margit Bandura, who co-founded Music for the People with her late husband Rod ‘Little Sky’ Bandura. “To see that continue five years later and to see so many people come together again this year, means more than I can put into words.”
Music, dancing, and storytelling filled the Powwow Arbour throughout the evening, with performances by the Sage Hills Singers, Drummers, and Dancers, members of the Kamloops Symphony, and perennial favourite pianist and vocalist Jesse Jones. Headliners the Spiritual Warriors brought their distinctive blend of traditional Indigenous music, contemporary roots, rock, and reggae to the stage, with music inspired by the land and life of the Lil’wat Nation.
The Artisan Market added another dimension to the evening, giving attendees an opportunity to meet local Indigenous artists and makers, explore handcrafted artwork and traditional crafts, and enjoy traditional foods. The market created another space for cultural sharing, conversation, and connection.
The night culminated with the second annual presentation of the Rod ‘Little Sky’ Bandura Music Scholarship, named in honour of the late co-founder of Music for the People. The scholarship supports Indigenous people with a passion for music, helping them develop their skills and pursue their musical interests. This year, Tayla-Leigh Tomada was selected as the recipient and will receive an acoustic guitar and a full year of music lessons from Long & McQuade, continuing Rod’s legacy of supporting Indigenous musicians.
“Rod deeply believed in the ability of music to connect people,” said Bandura. “Seeing a young Indigenous musician supported through the scholarship and hundreds of people gathering in the spirit this event was created for is a meaningful way to carry Rod’s legacy forward.”
Five years after its first concert, Music for the People continues to grow as an annual gathering centered on music, culture, reconciliation, and connection. Looking ahead, organizers hope to build on the relationships and shared experiences that have shaped the event over its first five years and continue bringing people together for years to come.
Photos: (Top) Right: Headlining group, the Spiritual Warriors, performing at Music for the People. Middle: Dancer from Sage Hills performs for the crowd. Left: Jesse Jones playing piano and singing onstage. (Bottom) Right: Musicians from the Kamloops Symphony play along with the Spiritual Warriors. Middle: A group of dancers from Sage Hills perform a dance together. Left: Music for the People at sunset in the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour. Photo credits: Mary Putnam Photography.
For an interview with Margit Bandura, contact:
Aleece Laird, Communications Liaison | aleece@amplifyinc.ca | 250.574.0221
About Music for the People – A Cultural Experience
Music for the People – A Cultural Experience is an annual gathering that brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together through music, culture, and shared experience. Founded by Rod “Little Sky” Bandura and Margit Bandura, the event was created to build understanding, connection, and reconciliation by bringing diverse voices, artists, and communities together. Through live music, cultural performances, storytelling, and community experiences, Music for the People creates an inclusive space for people of all ages to listen, learn, celebrate, and connect. For a glimpse into the event, follow the Facebook page or explore the website.
