The National Arts Centre Orchestra from Ottawa is set to mark its 100th tour, with Mi’kmaw singer-songwriter Emma Stevens joining them to perform her original music. Stevens, who gained worldwide recognition for her Mi’kmaw-language rendition of the Beatles’ “Blackbird,” expressed her excitement about showcasing Mi’kmaw culture through music. She has been actively advocating for Indigenous rights and language preservation, emphasizing the importance of passing down the Mi’kmaw language to future generations.
Stevens, who grew up speaking Mi’kmaw but faced challenges maintaining fluency due to English education, recently composed a song in Mi’kmaw, reflecting her commitment to reconnecting with her heritage. She is thrilled to perform at various Nova Scotia venues, including a concert in Eskasoni, where she will present both the Mi’kmaw version of “Blackbird” and an original song, “The Ballad of Shubenacadie,” addressing the Canadian residential school system.
Accompanying Stevens on the tour is Wolastoqiyik artist and Polaris Music Prize winner Jeremy Dutcher, who shares Stevens’ passion for Indigenous music revitalization. Dutcher, hailing from Tobique First Nation, is honored to collaborate with the NAC Orchestra and celebrate the resilience of Indigenous melodies and languages. The tour promises to be a celebration of music and cultural heritage, highlighting the unique voices and stories of Indigenous artists on a national platform.