Canada’s national orchestra is set to perform in Eskasoni First Nation, where Mi’kmaw singer-songwriter Emma Stevens will collaborate with the ensemble. Stevens, now 23 years old, expressed excitement about showcasing Mi’kmaw culture and music during the orchestra’s 100th tour. Her rendition of the Beatles’ “Blackbird” in Mi’kmaw gained global recognition in 2019, with over 1.9 million views on YouTube. Paul McCartney even praised her version during a tour stop in Vancouver.
Stevens, a vocal advocate for Indigenous issues, has addressed topics like language preservation and missing Indigenous women at United Nations events. She emphasized the importance of revitalizing the Mi’kmaw language, as she recently composed her first Mi’kmaw song. Despite challenges in fluency due to English education, Stevens feels a deeper connection through her music.
Excited about her upcoming performances, Stevens will present her Mi’kmaw versions of “Blackbird” and “The Ballad of Shubenacadie” at the Eskasoni concert and subsequent shows in Halifax and Wolfville. The orchestra’s tour also features Jeremy Dutcher, a renowned Wolastoqiyik composer and singer-songwriter, who praised Stevens and highlighted the celebration of Indigenous culture and resilience through music.
Dutcher, a two-time Polaris Music Prize winner, acknowledged the significance of traditional Indigenous music, influenced by his mentor Maggie Paul. He emphasized the importance of showcasing Indigenous songs and language with the NAC Orchestra on Wabanaki Territory. Dutcher and Stevens both look forward to a musical celebration that honors their heritage and stories.