CMI partners with APTN & NMC to deliver Indigenous Day Live Mentorship Program

CMI, in partnership with Aboriginal People’s Television Network (APTN) and the National Music Centre in Calgary, recently delivered a customized three-day mentorship program to three Indigenous artists in advance of the Indigenous Day Live concert events happening on June 21st, 2019.

We were welcomed to the land of Treaty 7 by Curtis Running Rabbit-Lefthand, executive director of Indigenous Resilience in Music (IRIM).

During the intensive three days, we worked with Ghostkeeper, Bebe Buckskin and Carolina East one-on-one on a range of topics including digital strategy and branding, live performance, vocal health, partnership agreements, goal setting and growth strategies, pitching and more.

“I had no idea what I was in for when I was asked to participate in this program,” says Carolina East. “From the second we arrived at Studio Bell, we were greeted with loving and non-judgmental open arms. We were all treated as though our voices and opinions really mattered. The workshops were tailored around my own (and my band’s needs). I left Calgary with a newfound love for the art I’ve chosen to make my career. I felt I had a new fire burning inside making me want to succeed.”

Calgary-based artist Bebe Buckskin reflected that, “Having a creative and professional space to call my own with fellow Indigenous Artists was an inspiring and invigorating experience. This custom-tailored program was exactly the boost I needed to re-ignite my self-belief and overall vision as an artist, performer and business owner.”

In addition to the workshops, the artists also participated in Creators’ Circle, a 60-min discussion moderated by Indigenous mentor Marek Tyler (nêiyawak). During this chat, the artists spoke openly about the ways in which their art connects to their heritage as well as voicing concerns over the challenges that exist for Indigenous artists currently pursuing careers in the music industry.

Each artist also spent time in the Studio Bell studios recording live performance videos to add to their EPKS. See Bebe Buckskin’s video for their song “Muskeg Blues”.

All artists have the option to continue their relationship with CMI and receiving ongoing mentorship at no cost.

Thanks to APTN, NMC and our Indigenous Mentors for making this a very special program.