8 | NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY
SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 2022
music
Indigenous Summer Tour showcases emerging artists in Manitoba communities
BY TRINA REHBERG BOYKO
It certainly does, when that local talent is made up of Indigenous artists who have signed on to share their gifts — and their stories — with communities throughout Manitoba. The Indigenous Summer Tour is back, after its hugely successful first run in 2021. So far, the tour has secured 10 dates, with the potential for more to come. Headliner Jerry Sereda, a country musician of Métis decent, will perform, host pre-concert arts activities and mentor the Indigenous artists joining him on tour. Growing up in the Parkland, or Treaty 1, region of Manitoba, Jerry spent time in Nashville before settling in the Treaty 8 lands of Alberta. He often returns home to Manitoba in the summer months, and this summer should prove to be extra special as he does what he loves in a place he loves. Sereda is slated for a southern tour from July 24 to 31 and a northern tour from Aug. 9 to 18. Each tour will feature two Indigenous artist alumni from the RBC Emerging Artists Project, which helps budding artists showcase their strengths and connect with seasoned musicians. One such musician is mezzo-soprano Rhonda Head from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. An accomplished artist herself, Head is a natural fit as Indigenous program co-ordinator with the Manitoba Arts Network — the organization behind the Indigenous Summer Tour. Head provides mentorship, liaises with Indigenous communities to schedule tour dates and, if you’re lucky, you might catch her singing one of her hits on stage (Kisahkihitin I Love You and 500 Years both earned bronze medals at the Global Music Awards). Summer, live music, local talent and free admission. Does it get any better?
Jerry Sereda SUPPLIED PHOTO
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