Kamloops, B.C. – Building on the resounding success of last year’s concert event, Margit and Rod Bandura, of the Margit Sky Project, announced the date for this year’s concert during a delegation to Kamloops City Council on July 25. ‘Music for the People—A Cultural Experience’ will take place at the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour on September 17, in conjunction with the Kwséltkten Farmers’ & Artisan Market to create an unforgettable evening.
“Last year’s concert was so successful that we just knew we had to bring it back and provide a place for the bridging of communities of neighbours, friends, and families to come together to enjoy the harmony of the music and to experience our unique, collective cultures,” said Margit, who sings and plays rhythm guitar with the Mar git Sky Project.
Like last year, this year will feature performers from the Kamloops Symphony and Sage Hills Singers, Drummers and Dancers, bringing a unique blend of the cultures under one roof. However, this year, the event will be held outdoors at the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour, a perfect place for a concert that represents the healing and transformative power of music, according to Margit.
Echoing the sentiments shared by Margit, Rod (First Nations’ name, Little Sky), the ‘Sky’ in the Margit Sky Project, remarked, “For me, the power of music to heal, communicate, and transform spaces is undeniable. That is why this concert experience is different than any other shows I have played. It's exciting to bridge the gap between cultures and perform as one.”
For Rod, the concert holds a deeper meaning, as with his transition into the position of Elder in his community, now more than ever, he wants to tell his stories and the stories of those who are lost, through music.
The event will also feature the Kwséltkten Farmers’ & Artisan Market. From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., attendees will be able to enjoy Indigenous crafts, art, cultural presentations, and traditional food for purchase.
George Casimir, General Manager for the Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations, and a member of Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc is honoured to be a part of this event.
“When Margit and Rod first told me of their vision for this concert and where the donations were going, I was proud to have our organization involved. The combination of traditional and contemporary talents come together perfectly, and I am certain this will be as amazing as it was last year!”
The concert part of the evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.
Admission this year will be absolutely free ensuring everyone can be a part of the unique experience. Cash donations will be graciously accepted and collected at the door, offering attendees the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause. A significant portion of the proceeds collected will be donated to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.
In an incredible show of support from the Kamloops community, this year’s event has many sponsors, making it possible for the event to be offered at no cost. Kelson Group Property Management and RBC have signed on as the ‘Presenting Sponsors’, with Tourism Kamloops, the Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations, the City of Kamloops, Rocky Mountaineer, BC Fairs and Festivals, Amplify Consulting Inc., Signet Studio Design, GK Sound, Healing Between Worlds, Pattison Media, and Mark Strate/Heather Smuin + Family signing on as supporters.
“We are so grateful for the incredible support we have received, making this event possible. The encouraging response from last year's audience fuel our determination to create an even more profound celebration of culture and unity,” said Margit. “We are eagerly anticipating the upcoming event with excitement and are looking forward to witnessing the harmonious connections it will forge within our community.”
To set up an interview with Margit and Rod, contact:
Aleece Laird, Communications Liaison | aleece@amplifyinc.ca | 250.574.0221
About Music For The People – A Cultural Experience
Music For the People is a unique concert event bringing the voices, music, and artistry of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous people together for an unforgettable evening. The concert brings culture, music, artists, and communities together and is suitable for all ages. www.musicforthepeople.ca
About IRSSS
To assist First Nation Peoples in British Columbia to recognize and be holistically empowered from the primary and generational effect of the Residential Schools by supporting research, education, awareness, partner ships, and advocating for justice and healing. The Society assists Survivors with counselling, court support, information, referrals, workshops, and more.
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